In Brief: An oval cast iron casserole with enamel coating, ideal for roasting joints and slow-cooking stews, available in four sizes from 3.2L to 6.3L capacity.
Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Oval Casserole
The oval shape of this cast iron casserole makes it particularly suited to roasting joints of meat, poultry, and cooking dishes where ingredients benefit from even, retained heat. Cast iron's superior heat retention means your food continues cooking evenly when you add cold ingredients, whilst the enamel coating eliminates the need for seasoning and handles acidic ingredients without issue.
Key features:
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Oval design: Accommodates whole chickens, joints of beef, and elongated vegetables more efficiently than round casseroles
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Enamelled interior: No seasoning required, ready to use straight away, suitable for acidic foods
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Versatile cooking: Works on all hob types including induction, oven-safe, and can be used for freezer storage
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Four size options: From 3.2L (serves 3-4) to 6.3L (serves 6-8) to match your household needs
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Lifetime guarantee: Hand-crafted with Le Creuset's lifetime warranty
This casserole suits cooks who want a single piece of cookware that moves from hob to oven to table, particularly those who regularly prepare roasts or slow-cooked dishes for family meals.
Which Size is Right for Me?
| Size |
25 cm |
27 cm |
29 cm |
31 cm |
| Capacity |
3.2 L |
4.1 L |
4.7 L |
6.3 L |
| Serves |
3-4 people |
4-6 people |
6 people |
6-8 people |
| Height |
14.9 cm |
15.4 cm |
16.7 cm |
17.9 cm |
| Width |
21.0 cm |
22.6 cm |
23.7 cm |
25.7 cm |
| Width (inc. handles) |
33.3 cm |
35.2 cm |
37.0 cm |
40.4 cm |
| Weight |
3.7 kg |
4.9 kg |
5.3 kg |
5.7 kg |
What Customers Ask About This Casserole
Will this fit in my oven?
The 25cm measures 33.3cm with handles, whilst the largest 31cm extends to 40.4cm. 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.
Why choose oval over round?
Oval casseroles accommodate elongated items like whole chickens, rib roasts, and fish more efficiently than round shapes. If you primarily cook joints of meat or whole poultry, the oval design reduces wasted space. For stews and dishes without specific shape requirements, a round casserole may offer more flexibility.
How does cast iron compare to stainless steel for roasting?
Cast iron retains heat more effectively than stainless steel, maintaining oven temperature when you open the door and ensuring even cooking throughout. However, these casseroles are considerably heavier (3.7kg to 5.7kg depending on size). If you need lightweight cookware for frequent lifting, stainless steel may suit you better.
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 casserole may not be recognised if the ring is too small.
Which size should I choose for my household?
The 25cm (3.2L) suits 3-4 people or couples who cook for leftovers. The 27cm (4.1L) handles 4-6 people comfortably. The 29cm (4.7L) serves 6, whilst the 31cm (6.3L) accommodates 6-8 or larger roasting joints. Consider whether you regularly cook for guests or prefer batch cooking when deciding.
What We've Learned About Cast Iron Since 1972
In our 52 years selling cast iron cookware, we've noticed customers often worry about maintenance and weight. The reality with modern enamelled cast iron is simpler than many expect.
The Maintenance Question
Unlike bare cast iron, enamelled pieces require no seasoning. You can cook acidic foods like tomato-based sauces without issue. The black enamel interior naturally develops a patina over time - this is desirable and improves food release, so don't attempt to scrub it off.
The Weight Trade-Off
These casseroles are heavy - ranging from 3.7kg to 5.7kg empty. This weight is what provides excellent heat retention, but it's worth considering if you have mobility concerns. If you struggle with heavy cookware, the smaller 25cm size offers the benefits of cast iron with the least weight penalty.
Heat Management
The most common mistake we see is using too much heat. Cast iron retains heat so effectively that medium or even low settings typically suffice. Let it heat gradually on the hob before adding ingredients for best results.
Specifications
Material: Cast iron with enamel coating
Available Sizes: 25cm, 27cm, 29cm, 31cm (oval measurement)
Capacities: 3.2L, 4.1L, 4.7L, 6.3L
Weights: 3.7kg, 4.9kg, 5.3kg, 5.7kg (varies by size)
Suitable For: All hob types including induction, oven, freezer storage
Warranty: Lifetime Guarantee from Le Creuset
Manufacture: Hand-crafted
Care & Maintenance
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 black 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.
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.
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
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 takes up to 7 working days and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery is available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday. 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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