Le Creuset Cast Iron BBQ Outdoor Round Casserole 25cm 4L
This 25cm round casserole from Le Creuset's Outdoor Collection brings the brand's legendary cast iron quality to outdoor cooking. Designed specifically for cooking over open flames, BBQ grills, and pizza ovens, it excels at slow-cooked dishes like stews, soups, and braised meats outdoors. The 4-litre capacity suits cooking for 4-6 people, whilst the size fits comfortably on most BBQs without dominating grill space.
Made in France from black enamel cast iron, this casserole withstands temperatures up to 300°C from both regulated and unregulated heat sources. The slightly curved lid helps retain moisture during long, slow cooking, whilst the large handles make lifting safe even with oven gloves. Unlike traditional cast iron, no seasoning is required before use. The nestable design allows efficient storage with other pieces from the Outdoor Collection.
Key features:
- Generous 4-litre capacity: Suitable for cooking stews, soups, and braises for 4-6 people
- Outdoor-rated construction: Black enamel cast iron withstands temperatures up to 300°C for open flame cooking
- Fits most BBQs: 25cm diameter sized to fit comfortably on standard BBQ grills and in pizza ovens
- Moisture-retaining lid: Slightly curved design helps lock in moisture for tender, flavourful results
- Large handles: Safe, secure grip for lifting even when wearing oven gloves
- No seasoning required: Ready to use immediately, unlike traditional cast iron
- Develops natural patina: Interior enamel improves with use, creating enhanced non-stick properties over time
- Superior heat distribution: Cast iron ensures even cooking and retains heat to keep food warmer at the table
- Versatile heat sources: Compatible with BBQ grills, pizza ovens, wood-fired ovens, domestic ovens, and gas hobs
- Nestable design: Stores efficiently with other Outdoor Collection pieces
- Made in France: Individually sand-cast at Le Creuset's original foundry since 1925
- Limited lifetime guarantee: Long-term protection from Le Creuset
Ideal for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, camping trips with proper equipment, BBQ gatherings where you want to serve impressive slow-cooked dishes, or anyone wanting to expand their cooking beyond basic grilling. The casserole brings indoor cooking techniques to outdoor settings.
What Customers Ask About Le Creuset BBQ Outdoor Casserole
Yes, this casserole is specifically designed for slow-cooking dishes like stews, soups, and braises on BBQs and open flames. The 4-litre capacity provides enough volume for liquid-based dishes, and the curved lid helps retain moisture. You'll need to manage your heat source to maintain steady, low temperatures rather than high direct heat. It works best on gas BBQs where you can control temperature easily, or on charcoal grills using indirect heat methods.
The black enamel is specially formulated to withstand open flames and temperatures up to 300°C, whereas standard Le Creuset casseroles aren't designed for unregulated heat sources. The nestable design and slightly curved lid differentiate it structurally. Standard casseroles have light enamel interiors; this develops a dark patina over time. Choose the outdoor version if you want to cook on BBQs, pizza ovens, or open flames; choose standard casseroles for kitchen use only.
4 litres suits 4-6 people for stews, soups, or braised dishes with reasonable portions. It's a practical size that provides enough capacity without being unwieldy on a BBQ. For large gatherings of 8+ people, you might want additional capacity, but for typical family meals or small dinner parties, 4 litres works well. The size also means the casserole heats through reasonably quickly on a BBQ.
Yes, this casserole is compatible with domestic ovens and gas hobs. The "outdoor" designation means it's suitable for outdoor cooking, not that it's limited to outdoor use. However, it's not recommended for electric or induction hobs. If you primarily cook indoors on electric or induction, a standard Le Creuset casserole would be more appropriate. This excels when you want the flexibility to cook both indoors and outdoors.
The lid sits securely on the casserole but isn't locked in place. When lifting, use both handles and keep the casserole level to prevent the lid sliding. The large handles are designed for safe lifting even with oven gloves. If you need to move a full casserole across uneven ground, hold the lid in place with one oven-gloved hand whilst supporting the base. The lid's slight curve helps it seat properly.
Use indirect heat rather than placing the casserole directly over flames. On gas BBQs, turn off burners directly beneath the casserole and use surrounding burners. On charcoal grills, bank coals to the sides and place the casserole in the centre. Start with low heat and increase gradually if needed. The cast iron distributes heat evenly which helps prevent hot spots, but uncontrolled direct heat can still burn food. Stir occasionally during cooking.
Specifications
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care. We stock Le Creuset because their commitment to handcrafted quality and lifetime performance aligns with our standards. This casserole is made in France at Le Creuset's original foundry using traditional sand-casting methods established in 1925.
About Le Creuset Outdoor Collection
Le Creuset's Outdoor Collection brings their legendary cast iron expertise to open-flame cooking. Each piece features specially formulated black enamel designed to withstand extreme temperatures and the rigours of outdoor cooking. Unlike standard cast iron, no seasoning is required, and the enamel resists staining and dulling whilst still developing natural non-stick properties through use. The collection allows you to bring indoor cooking techniques to outdoor settings.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
- ✓ Limited Lifetime Le Creuset Manufacturer's Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page or call us at 01737 222996
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash in warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. No seasoning is required - the casserole is ready to use immediately, unlike traditional cast iron.
Outdoor cooking - BBQ grills: For stews and braises, use indirect heat. On gas BBQs, turn off burners directly beneath the casserole and use surrounding burners to maintain steady temperature. On charcoal grills, bank coals to the sides and place the casserole in the centre. Start with low to medium heat. The cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, so high heat isn't necessary.
Outdoor cooking - pizza and wood-fired ovens: Place the casserole on the oven floor or on a grate, away from direct flames. Suitable for slow-cooked dishes, braises, or baked recipes. Monitor temperature to avoid exceeding 300°C. The curved lid helps retain moisture during long cooking times.
Indoor use: Compatible with gas hobs and domestic ovens. Not recommended for electric or induction hobs. Preheat gradually over low to medium heat. The 4-litre capacity makes this suitable for family-sized stews, soups, casseroles, or braised meats cooked indoors.
Slow cooking technique: Brown meat or vegetables first over medium heat, then add liquid and other ingredients. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover with the lid. The curved lid design helps condensation drip back into the dish, keeping food moist. Check liquid levels occasionally during extended cooking.
Developing the patina: To build the natural non-stick patina, clean the casserole with hot water only - no detergent. Use a brush or non-abrasive sponge to remove food particles. Dry thoroughly after washing. The patina develops gradually through regular use with oils and fats. Slight darkening or discolouration is normal and desirable as it enhances cooking performance.
Preventing thermal shock: Although designed for outdoor cooking, avoid extreme temperature changes. Don't place a cold casserole directly onto a roaring fire - allow it to warm gradually. Never plunge a hot casserole into cold water. Allow to cool naturally before washing. These precautions prevent potential cracking of the enamel.
Removing stuck food: If food residue remains after water cleaning, add water to the casserole and bring to a gentle simmer. The residue should loosen easily. For persistent marks, you can use a small amount of detergent occasionally, though this may require rebuilding the patina. A paste of bicarbonate of soda and water works for stubborn staining.
Storage: Ensure completely dry before storing. The nestable design allows you to stack with other Outdoor Collection pieces to save space. Store in a dry location. If the patina is well-developed, a light coating of cooking oil can help preserve it during extended storage periods.
Avoid: Electric and induction hobs which aren't compatible with this casserole's design. Aggressive use of metal utensils which can chip the enamel (wooden or silicone utensils are preferable). Detergent for routine cleaning if you want to maintain the developing patina. Extreme thermal shock from cold casserole to hot fire or hot casserole to cold water. Exceeding 300°C temperature limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked with it outdoors. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because customers shouldn't take a risk when buying quality cookware.
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally chip or crack this casserole, we'll replace it at half the current retail price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos are acceptable. This covers accidental damage but not damage from misuse (such as extreme thermal shock or exceeding temperature limits). Contact us with your proof of purchase and we'll arrange the replacement.
Le Creuset's limited lifetime guarantee covers manufacturing defects for the life of the product. This includes issues with the enamel coating, structural defects in the cast iron, or problems with the manufacturing process. It doesn't cover accidental damage, chips from dropping, damage from misuse (such as extreme thermal shock or excessive heat), or normal wear including patina development. Keep your proof of purchase. Claims go through us, and we handle the process with Le Creuset on your behalf.
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses takes up to 7 working days (usually 3-4) and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
Yes, this makes an exceptional gift for BBQ enthusiasts, outdoor cooking lovers, or anyone interested in expanding their cooking repertoire. It's particularly suitable for people who appreciate quality cookware and want to cook more than just basic grilled items on their BBQ. The piece comes in Le Creuset packaging. We can include gift receipts upon request. At £245.00 (RRP £249) this represents good value for French-made Le Creuset cast iron.
Whilst technically possible, dishwasher cleaning isn't recommended for this casserole. The detergent strips the developing patina that creates the natural non-stick surface. For best results and to develop the patina, clean with hot water only using a brush or non-abrasive sponge. This maintains the seasoned surface that improves cooking performance over time.
The 25cm diameter should fit on most standard kettle BBQs (typically 47cm or larger). Measure your BBQ's cooking area if uncertain. For smaller portable BBQs, check dimensions carefully. The casserole works best when you can arrange for indirect heat, so ensure your BBQ allows space for coals or burners around the casserole rather than directly beneath it.
Yes. If you've seen this identical Le Creuset BBQ Outdoor Round Casserole 25cm cheaper elsewhere, tell us where. If it's available with our competitor on the day you contact us, we'll match the price. The item must be identical and the competitor must be a UK retailer with physical stores.
The casserole is rated to 300°C which suits slow-cooking and braising where you want steady, moderate heat. The outdoor skillet is rated to 450°C for high-heat searing. Choose based on your cooking style: if you want to make stews and braises on your BBQ, the casserole works perfectly; if you primarily sear steaks and cook high-heat items, the skillet's higher rating is more appropriate. Both are suitable for typical outdoor cooking temperatures.
Yes, Le Creuset's Outdoor Collection includes various pieces all featuring the same black enamel construction and nestable design. The collection coordinates in both function and appearance, and pieces nest together for efficient storage. Check our Le Creuset section for other available outdoor cooking pieces including the outdoor skillet.