- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Pumpkin Casserole 24cm
Le Creuset's Signature Pumpkin Casserole combines artful design with exceptional functionality, making it a stunning centrepiece for autumn entertaining or year-round cooking. Crafted from cast iron for superb heat retention, this lifelike pumpkin-shaped casserole excels at making soups, stews, and hearty side dishes. The 3.7-litre capacity serves 4-6 people comfortably, whilst the distinctive shape and vibrant enamel finish make it perfect for bringing dishes directly from hob or oven to table.
Made in France using traditional foundry methods, each casserole features Le Creuset's signature enamel interior that resists staining, dulling, and chipping. The silver or gold finish stainless steel knob adds an elegant touch and remains oven-safe to 260°C. The cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution and exceptional heat retention, allowing you to cook on lower temperatures and keep food warm longer. The pumpkin's distinctive ridged shape isn't just decorative – it adds structural strength whilst creating an eye-catching presentation piece.
Key features:
- Authentic pumpkin design: Lifelike shape with ridged detailing makes a stunning table centrepiece
- Three seasonal colours: Available in Volcanic (vibrant orange), Garnet (deep red), and White, all with enamel interiors
- Superior cast iron construction: Exceptional heat retention and even distribution throughout cooking
- 3.7L capacity: Serves 4-6 people, perfect for soups, stews, casseroles, and side dishes
- Silver or Gold finish knob: Elegant stainless steel knob safe to 260°C
- Universal hob compatibility: Suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, and induction hobs
- Oven and grill safe: Up to 260°C (maintain 6.5cm gap when grilling)
- Made in France: Crafted using traditional foundry methods
- Limited Lifetime Guarantee: Covered by Le Creuset's comprehensive warranty
This casserole suits home cooks who appreciate combining functional cookware with beautiful presentation pieces, particularly those who enjoy autumn entertaining or seasonal cooking traditions.
What Customers Ask About This Pumpkin Casserole
Which colour should I choose?
Volcanic (vibrant orange) offers the most authentic pumpkin appearance and creates a festive autumn statement. Garnet (deep red) provides a sophisticated alternative that works year-round whilst still suggesting harvest themes. White offers an elegant, understated option that suits minimalist kitchens or winter table settings. Consider your existing Le Creuset collection or seasonal entertaining preferences.
Is this purely decorative or can it handle serious cooking?
This is a fully functional cast iron casserole with the same cooking performance as Le Creuset's traditional cocotte ranges. The cast iron construction provides exceptional heat retention and even distribution. Whilst the shape makes it beautiful for presentation, it excels at soups, stews, braised dishes, and side dishes. The 3.7L capacity suits substantial family meals, not just decorative serving.
How does the pumpkin shape affect cooking compared to round casseroles?
The wider, shallower profile compared to round cocottes makes it particularly suited to soups and side dishes where you want more surface area. The shape allows for easier stirring and serving. Heat distribution remains excellent due to the cast iron construction. The main consideration is storage – the distinctive shape requires more cupboard space than stackable round casseroles.
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. The flat bottom ensures good contact with induction surfaces. As with all cast iron, preheat gradually on induction to avoid hot spots, and use low to medium heat settings as cast iron's exceptional heat retention means high heat is rarely necessary.
Can I use this for baking as well as stovetop cooking?
Absolutely – it's oven safe to 260°C, making it suitable for braised dishes, baked gratins, or even bread. The cast iron provides excellent heat retention for even baking. The knob is oven-safe to the same temperature. The pumpkin shape creates an impressive presentation for oven-to-table dishes, particularly for autumn entertaining.
Is the 3.7L capacity enough for a family?
The 3.7L capacity comfortably serves 4-6 people for soups, stews, and side dishes. The wider, shallower shape compared to round cocottes means it suits dishes where you want more surface area rather than depth. For larger families or batch cooking, you might want Le Creuset's larger round cocottes, but this size offers good versatility for most households.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash in hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. This removes any manufacturing residues and prepares the enamel surface.
Cooking on the hob: Always use low to medium heat. Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, so high temperatures are rarely necessary and can cause food to stick or burn. Allow the casserole to preheat gradually for 2-3 minutes before adding ingredients. Use wooden, silicone, or heat-resistant plastic utensils to protect the enamel interior.
In the oven: Safe to 260°C including the knob. When transferring from hob to oven, always use oven gloves as handles will be hot. When grilling, maintain a minimum 6.5cm distance between the casserole and the grill element.
After cooking: Allow to cool slightly before washing – never plunge hot cast iron into cold water as thermal shock can crack the enamel. The light coloured enamel interior makes it easy to see when food is properly cleaned.
Daily cleaning: Handwash only using hot soapy water and a soft sponge or brush. The enamel interior resists staining and dulling, but avoid abrasive cleaners or metal scourers. For stubborn residues, soak in warm soapy water, then use a nylon brush or Le Creuset's pan cleaner. Dry thoroughly after washing.
Removing stuck-on food: Fill with warm soapy water and bring to a gentle simmer on the hob for a few minutes. This loosens residues without scrubbing. For particularly stubborn marks, use a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water, leave for 15-20 minutes, then wash as normal.
Storage: Store with the lid slightly ajar to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Place paper towels between stacked pieces to protect enamel surfaces. The pumpkin shape requires more storage space than round casseroles, so measure your cupboard space.
What to avoid: Never use on high heat. Do not use metal utensils that might chip the enamel. Never use in the microwave. Avoid thermal shock by not subjecting hot cookware to cold water. Do not store in the freezer. Avoid sliding across surfaces – always lift to move.
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 French craftsmanship and lifetime guarantees align with our commitment to products that last generations.
Le Creuset's 90 Day Money Back Guarantee
If within 90 days of purchase you are not completely delighted with your Le Creuset product, Le Creuset will give you your money back. Email Le Creuset's Customer Services team via helpline.uk@lecreuset.com for more information.
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. Additionally, Le Creuset offers a 90 Day Money Back Guarantee.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage this casserole, 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 Limited Lifetime Guarantee.
How does Le Creuset's Lifetime Guarantee work?
Le Creuset's Limited Lifetime Guarantee covers manufacturing defects for the lifetime of the product. This doesn't cover accidental damage, misuse, or damage from thermal shock (such as plunging hot cast iron into 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?
Yes, this pumpkin casserole is available in three colours: Volcanic (vibrant orange), Garnet (deep red), and White. All feature enamel interiors and stainless steel knobs. Select your preferred colour variant when ordering. Availability may vary by colour, so if your first choice isn't in stock, contact us to check restock dates.
Is this only for autumn or can I use it year-round?
Whilst the pumpkin shape makes it particularly appealing for autumn entertaining, it's a fully functional cast iron casserole suitable for year-round cooking. Many customers use Garnet or White versions throughout the year for their elegant presentation. The Volcanic orange naturally suits autumn and harvest themes but works beautifully for any season.
How do I season cast iron enamel?
Le Creuset's enamel coating doesn't require seasoning like bare cast iron. The cream enamel interior is ready to use after initial washing. Simply ensure you use adequate fat or liquid when cooking to prevent sticking, and preheat gradually on low to medium heat.
Will the interior stain?
Le Creuset's enamel resists staining better than you might expect. Some light marks may develop with use, particularly from tomato-based sauces or strong spices, but these don't affect performance. For stubborn marks, use bicarbonate of soda paste. Many customers find the interior develops a gentle patina that adds character whilst remaining perfectly functional.
Can I stack this with other Le Creuset pieces?
The pumpkin shape makes stacking impractical with other casseroles. Store it separately, and if placing other items inside for storage, use protective padding to prevent scratching the enamel. The distinctive shape requires dedicated cupboard space, so measure your storage area before purchasing.
Is cast iron difficult to maintain?
Le Creuset's enamelled cast iron is significantly easier to maintain than bare cast iron. No seasoning is required, the enamel won't rust, and cleanup is straightforward with hot soapy water. The main requirements are using low to medium heat, avoiding thermal shock, and handwashing. With proper care, it lasts for generations.
Why is this made in France rather than China?
Le Creuset's cast iron cookware continues to be manufactured in their foundry in Fresnoy-le-Grand, France, using traditional sand-casting methods that have been refined since 1925. Each piece is individually inspected, and the French production maintains Le Creuset's exacting quality standards for their signature cast iron range. This French craftsmanship is part of what justifies the investment in Le Creuset cast iron.
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