Quick Overview: Le Creuset's Heritage Rectangular Dish with scalloped handles, available in three sizes (1.1L, 2.4L, 4L) for marinating, roasting, baking, and serving. Temperature range -23°C to 260°C. Customer Rating: 4.9/5 stars
Le Creuset Stoneware Heritage Rectangular Dish
Le Creuset's Heritage Rectangular Dish serves as a kitchen essential for everyday cooking, from marinating and roasting to baking and serving at the table. Crafted from specialist clays and fired at the highest temperatures, this stoneware dish provides exceptional thermal resistance that maintains even temperature throughout cooking to prevent scorching. The range features three useful sizes to suit different recipes and household needs, each designed with easy-grip scalloped handles that ensure secure handling even when wearing oven gloves.
The vitrified enamel glaze creates a naturally non-stick surface that's scratch-resistant and remarkably easy to clean. Unlike standard ceramic dishes, Le Creuset's stoneware tolerates extreme temperature ranges from freezer (-23°C) to oven (260°C), allowing you to prepare dishes ahead, freeze them, and cook directly from frozen. The dense stoneware construction retains heat effectively, keeping food warm when serving at the table. Available in Le Creuset's vibrant colour range, these dishes transition beautifully from oven to table.
Key features:
- Three versatile sizes: 19cm (1.1L) for couples and side dishes, 26cm (2.4L) for family meals, 32cm (4L) for entertaining and larger portions
- Exceptional temperature range: Safe from -23°C (freezer) to 260°C (oven), plus microwave and dishwasher compatible
- Superior thermal resistance: Maintains even temperature during cooking to prevent hot spots and scorching
- Enamelled stoneware construction: Scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and naturally non-stick
- Scalloped handles: Easy-grip design for secure handling with oven gloves
- Oven-to-table presentation: Available in vibrant Le Creuset colours for attractive serving
- 10 Year Guarantee: Covered by Le Creuset's comprehensive warranty
These dishes suit home cooks who want reliable, versatile bakeware that performs equally well for everyday family meals and special occasion entertaining across different household sizes.
What Customers Ask About This Dish
Which size should I choose?
The 19cm (1.1L) works well for couples, small portions, or side dishes serving 1-2 people. The 26cm (2.4L) suits family lasagnes, gratins, and roasts for 4-6 people – customers specifically mention it's "just right for cooking a large lasagna." The 32cm (4L) handles larger families, entertaining, or batch cooking. Consider your typical household size and whether you want one versatile size or multiple dishes for different purposes.
Can I cook directly from frozen in this dish?
Yes, but you must place the frozen dish into a cold oven and allow both to heat together gradually. Never place frozen stoneware into a preheated oven, as the sudden temperature change can cause thermal shock and cracking. This gradual heating method allows the stoneware to adjust safely whilst your frozen meal thaws and cooks.
How does stoneware compare to glass or metal baking dishes?
Stoneware provides superior even heat distribution compared to metal, which can create hot spots. Unlike glass, Le Creuset stoneware tolerates extreme temperature ranges and is significantly more resistant to thermal shock. The enamel glaze creates a more naturally non-stick surface than glass whilst being more scratch-resistant. Stoneware also retains heat longer than either glass or metal, keeping food warm at the table.
Will these fit in a standard UK oven?
All three sizes fit comfortably in standard UK ovens. The 19cm (24.65cm overall length) suits compact ovens, the 26cm (32.65cm length) fits standard ovens, and the 32cm (38.95cm length) requires checking your oven interior dimensions first, particularly if you plan to use multiple dishes simultaneously. Leave space around the dish for air circulation to ensure even cooking.
Can I use these under the grill?
Yes, all sizes are grill safe to 260°C. Always maintain a minimum 6.5cm distance between the top of the dish and the grill element. This distance prevents overheating the enamel glaze and allows safe removal with oven gloves. The dishes work well for finishing gratins or browning cheese toppings.
Are the colours food safe and do they fade?
Yes, Le Creuset's enamel colours are completely food safe, cadmium and lead-free, and fired at high temperatures to ensure they won't fade, even with regular dishwasher use. The colours remain vibrant for years, which is why customers mention purchasing second dishes in their favourite colours.
What Our Customers Tell Us
Based on verified reviews with an exceptional 4.9/5 star rating, several consistent themes emerge about the Heritage Rectangular Dish range.
Size Versatility Across Household Needs
Customers appreciate how different sizes suit their specific needs. Some mention the dishes are the "perfect size for 2 people," whilst others note they're "just right for cooking a large lasagna" for families. This flexibility makes the Heritage range suitable for couples cooking everyday meals or families preparing larger dishes. One customer mentions purchasing their second dish, suggesting the sizing and performance encourage building a collection across different capacities.
Exceptional Value
Multiple customers comment on competitive pricing. One reviewer specifically notes "Art of Living has the best prices for Le Creuset anywhere online," whilst others describe them as "very good value for money" and praise getting "reliable quality at good price." In our 52 years of retail experience, customers often compare Le Creuset prices across multiple retailers, and these reviews confirm we're offering competitive value on this popular range.
Quality and Presentation
Customers consistently praise quality and appearance. Reviews mention they're "beautiful and fantastic quality," "excellent quality and very sturdy," and that they "look good, as described." Several customers purchased these as gifts, with one noting they were the "perfect present for my friend's birthday," indicating the Heritage range's reputation makes it suitable for gift-giving occasions.
Versatility for Different Cooking Methods
Customers successfully use these dishes for various applications. One specifically mentions "I like the results when I bake puddings in the stoneware dish," whilst another describes it as a "fantastic roasting tray." This versatility – handling both sweet and savoury recipes, plus oven-to-table serving – adds practical value beyond single-purpose bakeware.
Long-Term Satisfaction
The consistent 5-star ratings across multiple years (from 2020 to 2025) suggest the quality and performance remain reliable over time. Customers describe being "delighted" with their purchases, with no reports of quality degradation or disappointment after extended use.
Available Sizes & Specifications
19cm Heritage Rectangular Dish
Capacity: 1.1 litres
Overall Dimensions: 24.65cm L x 15.1cm W x 8.05cm H
Weight: 1.1kg
Packed Weight: 0.98kg
Best for: Couples, small portions, side dishes (serves 1-2)
Example MPN: 71102199490001 (Rhône)
Example EAN: 0843251182312 (Rhône)
26cm Heritage Rectangular Dish
Capacity: 2.4 litres
Overall Dimensions: 32.65cm L x 20.25cm W x 8.85cm H
Weight: 2.4kg
Packed Weight: 1.48kg
Best for: Family meals, lasagnes, gratins (serves 4-6)
Example MPN: 71102269490001 (Rhône), 71102260900001 (Volcanic)
Example EAN: 0843251182329 (Rhône), 0843251102785 (Volcanic)
32cm Heritage Rectangular Dish
Capacity: 4 litres
Overall Dimensions: 38.95cm L x 25.4cm W x 9.1cm H
Weight: 4kg
Packed Weight: 2.32kg
Best for: Large families, entertaining, batch cooking (serves 6-8+)
Example MPN: 71102329490001 (Rhône)
Example EAN: 0843251182336 (Rhône)
Universal Specifications (All Sizes)
Material: Stoneware with vitrified enamel glaze
Temperature Range: -23°C (freezer) to 260°C (oven)
Oven Safe: Yes, up to 260°C
Grill Safe: Yes (maintain minimum 6.5cm distance from element)
Microwave Safe: Yes
Freezer Safe: Yes, down to -23°C
Dishwasher Safe: Yes (handwash recommended for longevity)
Hob Safe: No – not suitable for any hob type
Handle Design: Scalloped easy-grip handles
Available Colours: Multiple vibrant Le Creuset colours (select size and colour variant)
Warranty: 10 Year Guarantee
Country of Origin: Thailand
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash in hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. This prepares the enamel surface for cooking.
Cooking from frozen: Place frozen stoneware into a cold oven and allow both to heat together gradually. Never place frozen stoneware into a preheated oven, as the sudden temperature change can cause thermal shock and cracking. This gradual heating method is essential for the longevity of your stoneware.
During cooking: Always use oven gloves when handling hot stoneware. The scalloped handles provide secure grip even with gloves. When grilling, maintain a minimum 6.5cm distance between the top of the dish and the grill element.
After cooking: Allow the dish to cool before cleaning. If washed too quickly whilst still hot, thermal shock may occur, resulting in cracking. This cooling period is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the stoneware. The dense material retains heat for extended periods, so allow adequate cooling time.
Cleaning: Handwashing is recommended for longevity, though all sizes are dishwasher safe. For handwashing, use warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. The enamel glaze resists staining and scratching, making cleanup straightforward. For stubborn residues, fill the dish with warm soapy water and allow to soak – do not submerge the entire dish in water for soaking.
Stain removal: The enamel glaze is scratch-resistant and easy to clean. For any discolouration, use a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water, leave for a few minutes, then wipe clean. Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners which aren't necessary for this surface.
Storage: Store in a cupboard where it won't be knocked or dropped. If stacking multiple dishes, place a soft cloth or paper towel between items to protect the enamel finish. The nestable design of multiple Heritage dishes allows efficient storage.
What to avoid: Never use on any hob type. Do not expose to sudden temperature changes (e.g., from freezer directly to hot oven, or hot dish into cold water). Do not use metal utensils that might chip the enamel, though the surface is scratch-resistant. Do not heat empty.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware and bakeware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care. Customers consistently tell us we offer the best prices for Le Creuset online, and we stock Le Creuset because their quality standards align with our commitment to products that last.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
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. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because customers shouldn't take a risk when purchasing cookware.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage this dish, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos of the damage are acceptable. This works alongside Le Creuset's own 10 year guarantee.
How does Le Creuset's 10 Year Guarantee work?
Le Creuset's 10 Year Guarantee covers manufacturing defects for 10 years from purchase. This doesn't cover accidental damage, misuse, or damage from thermal shock (such as placing hot stoneware in cold water). Our Half-Price Replacement guarantee provides additional protection for accidental damage during the first 2 years.
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.
Can I choose my colour and size?
Yes, these dishes are available in multiple Le Creuset colours across three sizes (19cm, 26cm, 32cm). Select your preferred size and colour variant when ordering. Availability varies by colour and size combination, so if your first choice isn't in stock, consider alternative colours or contact us to check restock dates.
Should I buy multiple sizes?
Many customers find value in having different sizes for different purposes. The 19cm suits side dishes and couples, the 26cm handles most family meals, and the 32cm works for entertaining or batch cooking. One customer mentions purchasing their second dish, suggesting they find the versatility worth building a collection. Consider your cooking patterns and storage space when deciding.
Will this crack if I make a mistake with temperature?
Le Creuset stoneware is engineered to resist thermal shock better than standard ceramics, but extreme temperature changes can still cause cracking. The two critical rules: never place frozen stoneware in a preheated oven (place in cold oven instead), and always allow hot stoneware to cool before washing. Following these guidelines, customers report years of reliable use without issues.
Is the enamel glaze food safe?
Yes, Le Creuset's enamel glaze is completely food safe and non-reactive. It doesn't leach chemicals into food and won't absorb flavours or odours. The glaze is cadmium and lead-free, meeting all UK and EU food safety standards.
Can I use these for marinating?
Yes, the non-reactive enamel surface is ideal for marinating. All three sizes are safe for fridge use, and you can marinate directly in the dish, then transfer it straight to the oven for cooking. This reduces washing up and streamlines meal preparation.
How do the Heritage dishes compare to Le Creuset cast iron?
Heritage stoneware is lighter than cast iron, making it easier to handle when full. It's microwave safe (cast iron isn't) and offers wider temperature tolerance including freezer use. Cast iron provides superior heat retention for stovetop-to-oven cooking, but requires more maintenance. For pure baking and roasting applications, many customers prefer stoneware's ease of use and cleaning convenience.
