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Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Pumpkin Shallow Casserole 28cm Volcanic
The Le Creuset Pumpkin Shallow Casserole brings both charm and versatility to your kitchen. Shaped like an autumn pumpkin with an authentic stem-shaped stainless steel knob, this 28cm cast iron casserole combines Le Creuset's signature craftsmanship with a shallow, wide design that maximises surface contact between food and heat. The 2.5-litre capacity suits everything from quick 30-minute meals to slow-cooked aromatic dishes, whilst the distinctive shape makes it an eye-catching serving piece for autumn gatherings.
Handcrafted at Le Creuset's original French foundry since 1925, each piece is individually cast in sand moulds, making yours entirely unique. The enamelled cast iron construction provides exceptional heat retention and distribution, working efficiently at low to medium temperatures across all hob types including induction.
Key features:
- Versatile shallow design: Wide 28cm base suits stir-frying, searing, braising, risottos, paellas, and oven-to-table serving
- Superior heat retention: Cast iron core keeps food warmer for longer at the table, ideal for entertaining
- Easy-grip large handles: Comfortable to lift even when wearing oven gloves
- Durable enamel finish: Sand-coloured interior resists dulling and staining, easy to clean
- Tight-fitting lid with stabilisers: Prevents sliding and locks in moisture during cooking
- Distinctive pumpkin shape: Adds seasonal charm to your kitchen whilst providing practical cooking performance
This casserole suits home cooks who appreciate quality cookware that performs brilliantly whilst adding visual interest to autumn and Halloween entertaining. The shallow profile makes it particularly effective for dishes requiring high surface-area contact with heat.
What Customers Ask About Le Creuset Pumpkin Shallow Casserole
Why choose a shallow casserole over a standard round one?
The shallow design provides maximum contact between food and the cooking surface, making it exceptionally versatile for stir-frying, searing meat, and preparing dishes like paella or risotto where you want moisture to evaporate efficiently. The wide base (28cm diameter) with 5.2cm depth gives you more cooking surface than standard round casseroles of similar capacity. If you primarily make slow-cooked stews or soups where depth matters, a standard round casserole may suit you better.
Is 2.5 litres sufficient for family cooking?
The 2.5-litre capacity typically serves 3-4 people for main courses or 4-6 as a side dish. The shallow profile means it's ideal for recipes where surface area matters more than depth – think golden-roasted vegetables, stir-fries, or dishes served directly at the table. For larger gatherings or batch cooking, you may want to consider Le Creuset's larger shallow casseroles or their deeper round designs.
How does the pumpkin shape affect cooking performance?
The pumpkin shape is primarily aesthetic – the cooking performance matches Le Creuset's other shallow casseroles with the same 28cm base diameter and 5.2cm interior depth. The shaped exterior and stem knob add seasonal charm without compromising functionality. The large handles remain easy to grip, and the lid fits securely thanks to stabilisers underneath.
Can I use metal utensils on the sand enamel interior?
Le Creuset recommends silicone, wooden, or heat-resistant plastic tools to preserve the enamel finish. Whilst the sand enamel is durable, metal utensils can potentially scratch the surface over time. The interior is designed to be almost as easy to clean as non-stick surfaces when used with appropriate tools and proper preheating.
Will this work on my induction hob?
Yes, the cast iron base is fully compatible with induction hobs, as well as gas, electric, and ceramic cooktops. Cast iron's magnetic properties make it excellent for induction cooking. Ensure you use an appropriately sized ring – the 28cm base works best on medium to large hob rings for even heat distribution.
Why is it handwash recommended when it's dishwasher safe?
The casserole base is dishwasher safe, but the lid should be handwashed to maintain the stainless steel knob's finish. Handwashing both pieces helps preserve the exterior enamel's vibrant appearance over decades of use. Many customers find handwashing cast iron straightforward – the smooth enamel interior wipes clean easily with warm soapy water.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash in hot soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely.
Cooking technique: Medium or low heat delivers best results, even for frying and searing. Let the casserole heat gradually for evenly cooked food. If higher heat is needed, reduce the setting once desired temperature is reached. Cast iron's excellent heat retention means you rarely need high settings. Use an appropriately sized hob ring for even cooking and to prevent damage.
Recommended tools: Le Creuset silicone tools, wooden utensils, or heat-resistant plastic implements. Avoid metal utensils which may scratch the enamel over time.
Daily cleaning: Allow the casserole to cool before washing – thermal shock from washing whilst hot may cause cracking or enamel loss. Handwash in warm soapy water using a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. The smooth sand enamel interior wipes clean easily. The base is dishwasher safe, but handwashing preserves the exterior finish. The lid should be handwashed to maintain the stainless steel knob's appearance.
Avoid: The sand enamel interior is not ideal for dry cooking – always use a small amount of oil or liquid. Never drag the casserole across glass or ceramic cooktops; always lift to move. Do not preheat empty, and do not use in microwave.
Oils to use: Vegetable, rapeseed, and sunflower oil work well with the sand enamel interior.
Oven and grill use: Safe up to 260°C. When grilling, maintain a minimum 6.5cm gap between the heat source and the top of the casserole. Always use oven gloves when handling hot cookware.
Storage: Store with the lid slightly ajar to allow air circulation. The casserole is freezer compatible – when cooking from frozen, place the frozen casserole into a cold oven and allow both to heat together.
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.
About Le Creuset
Established in 1925 at their foundry in Fresnoy-le-Grand, France, Le Creuset pioneered enamelled cast iron cookware. Each piece is still individually cast in sand moulds using traditional techniques, making every casserole unique. Le Creuset's signature Volcanic (orange) colour became their trademark, and their cookware is used by professional chefs and home cooks in over 60 countries. The brand's cocotte (French oven) remains their most popular item, combining vibrant retro colours with exceptional cooking performance.
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 or call us at 01737 222996
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 we believe customers shouldn't take a risk when investing in quality cookware.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
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 breakage but not damage from misuse (such as thermal shock from rapid temperature changes). Contact us with your proof of purchase and we'll arrange the replacement.
How long does delivery take?
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.
Does Le Creuset's own guarantee apply as well?
Yes. This casserole comes with Le Creuset's Limited Lifetime Guarantee covering manufacturing defects. Le Creuset also offers a 90 Day Money Back Guarantee on qualifying purchases (terms and conditions apply – contact Le Creuset Customer Services via helpline.uk@lecreuset.com for details). Our Art of Living guarantees are in addition to, not instead of, Le Creuset's manufacturer warranty.
Can I use this under the grill?
Yes, it's grill safe up to 260°C. Maintain a minimum distance of 6.5cm between the heat source and the top of the casserole. The stainless steel knob is heat resistant, but always use oven gloves when handling. For best results, monitor food closely as the cast iron retains heat effectively.
Why does Le Creuset recommend low to medium heat?
Cast iron's exceptional heat retention and distribution means you rarely need high heat settings. Medium or low temperatures produce evenly cooked food without hot spots. Using unnecessarily high heat can cause food to stick and may damage the enamel over time. Once the casserole reaches temperature, the cast iron maintains heat efficiently.
What's the difference between this and a standard 28cm shallow casserole?
The cooking performance is identical to Le Creuset's standard 28cm shallow casserole – same capacity, base diameter, and interior depth. The difference is purely aesthetic: the pumpkin-shaped exterior with stem knob versus the standard round design. Both feature the same sand enamel interior, stainless steel knob, and lifetime guarantee.
Will this work with your price match guarantee?
Yes. If you've seen this identical Le Creuset Pumpkin Shallow Casserole 28cm in Volcanic 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 (same size, colour, and design) and the competitor must be a UK retailer with physical stores.
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