SKU: #342343 (MPN: 21180220902430)

Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Shallow Casserole

Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Shallow Casserole (2458365657146)
SKU: #342343 (MPN: 21180220902430)

Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Shallow Casserole

Sale price £149.00
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In Brief: A shallow cast iron casserole with wide cooking surface, designed for browning meat, frying, and braising, available in three sizes from 1.4L to 3.5L capacity.

Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Shallow Casserole

The shallow design of this cast iron casserole provides a wider cooking surface compared to deeper casseroles, making it particularly effective for tasks requiring more exposed surface area. This suits browning meat before braising, pan-frying, caramelising vegetables, and dishes where you need ingredients in a single layer rather than stacked. The reduced depth also makes it easier to turn food and monitor cooking progress.

Key features:

  • Wide cooking surface: Shallow depth provides more exposed area for browning and frying compared to standard casseroles
  • Versatile cooking methods: Effective for searing, pan-frying, braising, and one-pot meals
  • Enamelled interior: No seasoning required, ready to use immediately, handles acidic ingredients
  • All-hob compatibility: Works on gas, electric, ceramic, and induction hobs, plus oven and freezer-safe
  • Three size options: From 1.4L (serves 1-2) to 3.5L (serves 4-6)
  • Lifetime guarantee: Hand-crafted with Le Creuset's lifetime warranty

This casserole suits cooks who frequently brown meat, prepare pan sauces, or prefer dishes where ingredients need space rather than depth. The lower sides also make it easier to access food during cooking.

Which Size is Right for Me?

Size 22 cm 26 cm 30 cm
Capacity 1.4 L 2.0 L 3.5 L
Serves 1-2 people 2-4 people 4-6 people
Height 10.1 cm 11.9 cm 13.5 cm
Width 23.4 cm 27.8 cm 31.7 cm
Width (inc. handles) 29.5 cm 35.2 cm 40.2 cm
Weight 3 kg 4.2 kg 5.6 kg

What Customers Ask About This Casserole

What makes a shallow casserole different from a standard one?

The shallow design (10.1cm to 13.5cm height) provides more cooking surface area relative to volume compared to deeper casseroles. This makes it more effective for browning, searing, and dishes where you want ingredients in a single layer rather than stacked. It's also easier to turn food and see what's cooking without the deeper sides obstructing your view or access.

Will this fit in my oven?

The 22cm measures 29.5cm with handles, the 26cm extends to 35.2cm, and the 30cm reaches 40.2cm. Most UK ovens are 60cm wide, so all sizes should fit comfortably. Measure your oven interior width and depth, then check the dimensions table above to confirm clearance.

Can I use this for deep-frying?

The shallow design makes it less suitable for deep-frying where you need several inches of oil depth. It's more appropriate for shallow frying, pan-frying, or sautéing where food is partially submerged or cooked in a smaller amount of oil. For deep-frying, a deeper casserole or dedicated fryer would be safer.

What can I cook in this?

Customers use this for risottos, paellas, casseroles, braising meat, and one-pot meals. The large surface area suits dishes where you need to brown ingredients first or where stirring is frequent. As customers note, it "leaves all my meats beautifully soft and succulent" and works particularly well for dishes requiring even heat distribution across a wide cooking surface.

Which size should I choose?

Based on customer feedback, the 22cm (1.4L) suits 1-2 people, whilst the 26cm (2.0L) works for 2-3 people but "maybe not quite big enough for hungry 4." Customers recommend the 30cm (3.5L) "even if cooking for as few as four - otherwise things might go over the sides as you stir them about." Consider whether you prefer exact portions or extra space for stirring.

Will this work on my induction hob?

Yes, cast iron works on induction hobs. Ensure you use a hob ring that matches the base size of your casserole - on induction, the pan may not be recognised if the ring is too small for the base diameter.

What Our Customers Tell Us

Based on customer reviews, we've learned what matters most to people using this shallow casserole.

Exceptionally Versatile

Customers consistently mention the versatility of this design. As one reviewer noted, it's "great for risottos, paellas, casseroles etc. Such a versatile dish." Another customer described it as "a brilliant all purpose cooking and serving dish." The shallow design works particularly well for dishes requiring a larger cooking surface - one customer specifically praised "the large surface area ideal for cooking larger quantities of food."

Outstanding Cooking Results

Multiple customers report superior cooking performance. One customer was surprised that "it would leave all my meats beautifully soft and succulent." Several reviews mention that "cooking with it is such a pleasure" and note how it "makes cooking a lot more exciting." For induction hob users, one customer specifically mentioned it "uses less energy, and saves money."

Size Selection Matters

Customer feedback reveals important sizing considerations. The 26cm is described as "suitable for 2-3 people meal, maybe not quite big enough for hungry 4." One experienced user recommends the 30cm "even if cooking for as few as four - otherwise things might go over the sides as you stir them about." Another confirms the smaller sizes work well, calling it "perfect for two person cooking" and "a great little casserole - perfect for four servings."

Built to Last Decades

The longevity theme appears frequently. One customer notes: "I'm still using ones purchased 25 years ago." Multiple reviewers describe it as "built to last a lifetime" and praise it as "top end quality" worth the investment. One customer purchased their second shallow casserole after seeing "how much it has been used and enjoyed" as a gift.

Specifications

Material: Cast iron with enamel coating
Available Sizes: 22cm, 26cm, 30cm (diameter)
Capacities: 1.4L, 2.0L, 3.5L
Heights: 10.1cm, 11.9cm, 13.5cm (varies by size)
Weights: 3kg, 4.2kg, 5.6kg (varies by size)
Suitable For: All hob types including induction, oven, freezer storage
Warranty: Lifetime Guarantee from Le Creuset
Manufacture: Hand-crafted

Care & Use

Before First Use: Remove all labels, wash in hot soapy water, rinse and dry thoroughly. The enamelled surface is ready to use immediately with no seasoning required.

Daily Cleaning: Allow to cool for a few minutes after cooking, then wash in hot soapy water. Never fill with cold water or plunge into cold water whilst hot - thermal shock can damage the enamel. For stubborn residues, fill with warm water and soak for 15-20 minutes before washing.

Tools to Use: Nylon or soft abrasive pads and brushes are suitable for cleaning. We recommend silicone or wooden utensils for cooking to protect the enamel surface. Avoid metal utensils, metallic pads, and harsh abrasive cleaning agents.

The Patina: The enamel interior will develop a brownish film (patina) over time. This is desirable - it enhances cooking performance and food release. Do not attempt to remove it.

Heat Management: Heat gradually on low or medium settings. Cast iron retains heat so effectively that high temperatures are rarely necessary. Use the correct hob ring size for even heating - particularly important on induction hobs where the pan may not be recognised if the ring is too small.

Storage: Dry thoroughly after washing and store in a dry place. These casseroles are freezer-safe if you need to store prepared dishes.

Why Buy From Art of Living?

Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers choose the right cookware for their needs. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for the quality of our customer care.

What Our Customers Say

Based on reviews, customers particularly mention our excellent customer service, competitive pricing, and fast delivery with excellent packaging. Customers describe us as "the best" with "great attention to customers" and "excellent communication, prompt delivery, competitive price."

Our Guarantees to You

  • ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
  • ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
  • ✓ Price Match Guarantee

If you're not happy with an item or it doesn't do what you wanted, you can return it for a refund - even if you've used it. That's our promise to you.

Read our full guarantee policy →

Questions? Visit our contact page or pop into one of our shops in Cobham, Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this really worth the investment?

Customers describe it as "worth every penny" and note they're "still using ones purchased 25 years ago." One customer who received it as a gift was so impressed by how much it was used and enjoyed that they bought a second one for themselves. Customers consistently describe it as "built to last a lifetime" - the initial cost is higher, but the per-use cost over decades makes it economical long-term.

What if I've used it and don't like it?

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.

What does Le Creuset's Lifetime Guarantee cover?

Le Creuset provides a lifetime guarantee on manufacturing defects. Each piece is hand-crafted, and the guarantee covers faults in materials or workmanship. Contact us if you experience any issues and we'll help you process a warranty claim.

What about your half-price replacement policy?

If you accidentally break your casserole within 2 years of purchase, we'll replace it at half price. You'll need proof of purchase and evidence of the breakage. We accept photos of the damage. If you registered your purchase with us or bought online, we'll have a record automatically.

Is this dishwasher safe?

Whilst the enamel coating can withstand dishwashers, hand washing is recommended to maintain the finish and protect the exterior enamel from potential chipping caused by contact with other items during the wash cycle.

Can I use metal utensils with this?

We recommend avoiding metal utensils to protect the enamel surface. Use silicone spatulas or wooden tools instead. Whilst metal utensils won't immediately damage the enamel, repeated use can gradually wear the surface.

How long does delivery take?

Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is 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.

Do you price match?

Yes. If you've seen this casserole cheaper elsewhere and it's available with our competitor on the day, we'll match the price. The item needs to be identical in specifications and colour. Contact us with the details and we'll arrange the price match.

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Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Shallow Casserole Volcanic with meatballs

No exception to Le Creuset quality

An international favourite, the Le Creuset Shallow Casserole is perfect for browning meat, frying, caramelising and more.

Outstanding in every dimension.

Lifetime Guarantee

on Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron products.

Where can I use the Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Casserole?

In the oven
Under the grill
On any hob, including induction
Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Round Casserole diagram
Image shown is Le Creuset Round Casserole. The same features apply.

Useful info...

Avoid metal utensils

We recommend using a Le Creuset Silicone Spatula or wooden tools, to avoid damaging the surface.

Use the right hob ring

Your food will cook more evenly if you use the right sized hob right for your casserole dish. On induction, your casserole may not be recognised if you don't!

Cook on low or medium heat

Let the casserole dish heat up gradually to ensure maximum flavour in food that is cooked evenly. Always lower the temperature when possible.

Before first use

Remove all labels. Wash in hot soapy water, rinse and dry thoroughly. The enamelled cooking surface is ready to use and requires no further preparation.

After use

Always cool for a few minutes before washing in hot soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Do not fill with cold water or plunge into cold water, as thermal shock damage to the enamel may occur.

If there are food residues, fill with warm water and leave to soak for 15 - 20 minutes, then wash in the usual way. Nylon or soft abrasive pads or brushes can be used to remove stubborn residues. Do not use metallic pads, or harsh abrasive cleaning agents as these will damage the enamel and polished trims.

Black enamel cooking surfaces will, over time, produce a patina (a brownish film). Do not attempt to clean this off as it enhances the cooking performance and food release from this surface.

Dry well after washing and store in a dry place.

Yes! All Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron products can be stored in the freezer.

As with anything you buy from Art of Living, you can return it to us, no questions asked.

If there's something you're not sure about, why not pop into one of our shops or give us a call to discuss?

All Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron products come with a reassuring Lifetime Guarantee.

That's because each dish is hand-crafted with care and we know you'll love it!

From our customers

★★★★★

Brilliant purchase. Best of all pans, so we bought the other size too.

Jennifer
July 2021
★★★★★

Wonderful dish - have made two tarte tatins and a ratatouille.

Customer
July 2021

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Mainland UK

Our deadline for guaranteed pre Xmas and pre New Year's Eve delivery has now passed.

Order value of £49 or more

Standard Delivery

Up to 7 working days

£0.00

Order value less than £49

Standard Delivery

Up to 7 working days

£4.95

Age Verified Delivery

Knife  Delivery

Up to 7 working days

£6.95

Next Day Delivery – where available - (Orders placed before 1.00pm Mon - Thur)*

Express Delivery

Next Day

£9.95

Saturday Delivery (Orders placed before 1.00pm Friday)*

Saturday Only

Saturday

£12.95

Other UK destinations

Isle of Wight

Standard Delivery

£9.95

Isle of Man

Standard Delivery

£12.95

Isles of Scilly

Standard Delivery

£12.95

Northern Ireland

Standard Delivery

£12.95

Channel Islands

Standard Delivery

£14.95




It is currently not possible to deliver to the ROI or Europe. We hope to reinstate this service as soon as possible.

If your desired country is not listed (USA, Australia etc.) this is most likely because couriers charge by "Volumetric Weight" i.e. a combination of how large and how heavy the package is. Just give us a call on 01737 222996 with the details of your order - we will advise the shipping costs within 24 hours  and ask if you want to proceed.

Please note that any overseas shipment is at your own risk and you will hence need to take out insurance to cover any damage in transit.

Customs forms for all international packages list the value of the contents as well as a description of the items. Any customs or import duties levied once the package reaches your country must be borne by you. Your local customs office will be able to provide you with further information.

Click and Collect

You can collect your order from one of our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.

If, when checking out, your closest shop does not appear, but others do, it just means that your shop is out of stock. Give us a call and we can arrange to have your chosen items transferred from another location.

Other destinations

Please contact us if your desired country or region is not listed.

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