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Dutch Ovens: High & Low

When you're shopping for a Dutch oven, price is generally a good gauge of quality — look for a heavy pot with even thickness throughout the walls and base. Usually made from cast iron, the Dutch should be designed to go from stove to table and it should have a tight-fitting lid. The most popular type of Dutch oven is coated with enamel, which adds color and makes the cooking surface non-reactive to acidic foods.

Le Creuset and Staub are pricey, but they're very durable and will last many, many years if properly cared for. Still, there are variations within brands, and there are good options if you're looking for something more affordable. For comparison's sake, most of the products on this list are in the standard 5-6 quart range.

High-End: $200 and Up

Le Creuset : This French cookware is often held up as the gold standard for enameled cast iron. Durable and designed to distribute heat evenly, it can last a lifetime if treated well. Le Creuset stands out from other brands for its rich colors, with new hues released seasonally. Shown: Le Creuset Round 5-1/2 Quart French Oven, $235.
Staub : Their cast iron cookware comes with a lifetime warranty. Designed with an enameled black matte interior and a glossy exterior, their Dutch Ovens are known for high quality and even heat distribution. Shown: Royal Blue 6 Quart Cocette $200.
Emile Henry : Made from clay rather than cast iron, their products are crafted in Burgundy, France, where the local clay is said to have "superior heat retention." Their proprietary manufacturing process involves a very hard scratch-resistant glaze. Shown: 5-1/2 Quart Flame Top Round Dutch Oven Stewpot, $210.

Mid-Range: $50 - $200

Crate and Barrel :
Martha Stewart : Her enamel cookware is sold through Macy's, where they have frequent sales. Colors are very Martha-ish: robin's egg blues, mint greens, and rich teals. Shown: Martha Stewart Collection Teal Enamel Cast Iron Casserole, 5-1/2 Quart, on sale for $55 (reg. $110).
Lodge : The company has been around for over 100 years, and their products are solid and sturdy. Everything is made here in the USA. Shown: 6 Quart Color Enamel Dutch Oven, $97.95. (Green is currently on sale for $77.95.)

Budget: Under $50

Target : They have a few lines of lower-priced enamel cookware by Giada de Laurentiis, Paula Deen, Lodge, and other manufacturers. This Enamel Coated Cast Iron 3 Quart Covered Casserole is $42 ($60 for the 5-Quart version).
Etsy : Because enamelware can last a long time, you can often find vintage cookware for less, as long as you're OK buying a piece that's already been seasoned. Shown: 5 Quart Orange Enamelware Dutch Oven from Etsy, $32.
IKEA : We've read mixed reviews of IKEA's cast iron cookware, but if you're someone who cooks with a Dutch oven infrequently, this should do the trick. The Senior Casserole with Lid ($40) is inexpensive, made from cast iron, and available in a very limited color palette.