I grab my Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven for everything, including soups, stews, casseroles, and yes, desserts, too. I even find myself grabbing it over most of my nonstick frying pans because it’s sturdier and produces better heat retention. Even though it’s a one-pot weeknight meal staple, it’s also a great tool for sauteing vegetables and searing meat for appetizers and side dishes.
BUY IT: $79.90 (orig. $119.85); amazon.com
The thick-walled cast iron pot comes with a heavy-duty lid that fits snugly on top to trap heat and moisture to create perfectly browned and tender meats. It has a nonstick enameled coating that’s so much easier to clean than traditional cast iron—just be sure to hand wash it and avoid using metal utensils and scrubbers that may scratch the pan.
The Dutch oven can go from the stovetop into the oven, and then straight to your table for easy dinners. It’s available in 27 colors to match any kitchen decor style, and in several sizes including 1.5, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 7.5 quarts. I have the 6-quart model that’s discounted to just $80 right now, and it makes batches of soup large enough for four to six servings.
