Buying Guide for the Best Dutch Oven For Grill
Choosing a Dutch oven for your grill is an excellent idea if you want to expand your outdoor cooking repertoire. A Dutch oven allows you to cook anything from stews and chili to bread and desserts, all over a grill or open flame. When picking the right Dutch oven, it's important to consider the unique requirements of grill use—such as the need for durability, heat resistance, and easy handling. A well-chosen Dutch oven can become a versatile, long-lasting tool for both everyday and special outdoor meals. Understanding the key features will help you select the best one for your needs.MaterialThe most common materials for Dutch ovens are cast iron and enameled cast iron. Standard cast iron is valued for its exceptional heat retention and even heating, making it ideal for use on a grill's direct heat. Enameled cast iron is easier to clean and doesn't require seasoning, but may not handle open flames as well over time. If you prioritize durability and classic performance for grilling, go for regular cast iron. Enameled versions are best if you want lower maintenance and less frequent exposure to very high heat.
CapacityDutch ovens come in a variety of sizes, generally measured in quarts or liters. Small ones (3–4 quarts) are great for side dishes or cooking for 1–2 people, medium sizes (5–7 quarts) are ideal for families or meals for 3–6 people, while large models (8 quarts or more) suit big gatherings or batch cooking. Think about the number of people you’ll usually cook for on your grill, and choose a size that won’t be too small, but also not so large that it’s unwieldy or takes up too much space on the grill.
ShapeMost Dutch ovens are either round or oval. Round ovens are great for most grill cooking, as they fit well on grates and evenly distribute heat. Oval shapes can accommodate longer cuts of meat, like roasts, but may not fit as comfortably on some circular grills. Consider the types of dishes you plan to prepare and the shape of your grill when deciding which shape is best for you.
Lid DesignA well-fitting lid is crucial for trapping heat and moisture. Some Dutch ovens feature lids with small spikes or ridges on the underside, which help to baste food, keeping it moist. Others may have flat lids that can double as griddles. For grilling, a tight seal is particularly helpful to prevent heat from escaping. If you plan to use your Dutch oven both outdoors and indoors, you might appreciate a versatile lid design.
HandlesDutch ovens with large, sturdy handles are much easier to move on and off a hot grill, especially when wearing oven mitts. Handles should be comfortable and allow for a secure grip. If you anticipate needing to lift a heavy pot full of food from the grill, prioritizing good handles is essential for safety and convenience.
Bare or Pre-seasoned SurfaceMost cast iron Dutch ovens are either bare (requiring you to season them before use) or pre-seasoned (ready for use and easy to maintain). Pre-seasoned models are convenient and resist rusting, especially important if the oven will be exposed to outdoor conditions. If you enjoy the ritual of seasoning and customizing your cookware, a bare cast iron Dutch oven can also be a good choice.
Legs or Flat BottomSome Dutch ovens designed for campfire or grill use have small legs to elevate them above coals, while others have a flat bottom. For grill cooking, a flat bottom is usually more versatile, letting the oven sit directly on the grate. Legs can be helpful if you also plan to use the Dutch oven directly over coals, but might not work as well on a standard grill.