6 Best Dutch Ovens for Sourdough Bread

Sourdough requires a consistent steamy environment for the best results, which can be challenging to achieve without a Dutch oven. That’s why I created this must-see list of the best Dutch ovens for sourdough bread, with the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven reigning supreme.

Hey, everyone! My name is Michelle, and I love sourdough (especially when it’s toasted with a slice of melted cheese on top – yum!). But as much as I love to eat it, I know the trickiness involved in making it. Sourdough is a peculiar loaf!

If you’ve been struggling to make homemade sourdough, you’re likely using the wrong tool. That’s where Dutch ovens come into play. Dutch ovens ensure the perfect environment for your sourdough loaf, so it can plump up and have a nice crust with a delectable interior.

I prefer the Lodge Dutch oven because it’s easy to use and convenient for all. There are no bells and whistles – just reliability and durability. It offers excellent heat retention and all-around even heating, essential for baking sourdough. The handled lid and large side handles are a plus, too.

Want to get your hands on a Dutch oven for sourdough bread (and other great recipes)? Then keep reading. Below, you will find the top six Dutch ovens on the market.

Let’s find out which Dutch oven will make it into your kitchen!

Best Dutch Oven for Sourdough Bread: Top Picks

There are plenty of Dutch ovens on the market, which can make it hard to find the right one. Well, I have added a Dutch oven for everyone on my top six list, whether you want a super versatile 5-in-1 product or want to keep things simple with a classic clay three-quart.

1. Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven (Top Choice)

• Key Features: Large capacity, non-stick, won’t scratch or chip, superior heat retention, even heating, safe up to 500F, secure and comfortable handles, cover with handle, smooth surface, an impressive selection of colors
• Material: Cast Iron
• Finish: Porcelain enamel
• Capacity: 6 quarts
• Weight: 14.33 pounds

When making sourdough bread, I don’t need any fancy gimmicks or tools. I want to stick with the basics for a job well done. And that’s why I rely on the Lord Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven for all of my sourdough bread baking needs. 

For one, this Dutch oven comes with an extra-large six-quart capacity, so I can make a loaf of sourdough bread the whole family can enjoy. It’s made of heavy-duty cast iron and a porcelain-enamel coat to ensure no scratches, chips, or stuck-on messes while allowing for superior heat retention.

On either side of the Dutch oven are large loop handles. They offer a superior grip, essential when pulling your sourdough loaf out of the oven. Speaking of the oven, this product can easily be used up to 500F, perfect for sourdough bread.

Most of the issues concerning this Dutch oven came from packaging and delivery, not the pot itself. For example, some arrived with chips or other flaws. Luckily, the company is always prepared to send replacements to make their customers happy.

2. LoafNest: Incredibly Easy Artisan Bread Kit (Premium Pick)

• Key Features: Perforated non-stick silicone liner included, easiest to use, safe up to 500F, creates the perfect texture inside and out, won’t rust, oblong shape, BPA and PFOA-free, durable for 1,000+ uses
• Material: Cast Iron
• Weight: 9.46 pounds

If you’ve been trying to make sourdough bread in a regular Dutch oven with no luck, it might be time to shake things up a bit. Yes, the LoafNest comes with a relatively high price tag, but it’s the innovative and all-new way to craft Artisan bread right from home. Here’s why you’ll love it.

The LoafNest comes in an oblong shape, ideal for loaves of sourdough bread. It also comes with a handy, professional-style liner that ensures bread is baked to perfection every time with a crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Plus, it prevents the notorious “flatness” of typical Dutch ovens.

This kit is known as the “Less than 5 minutes effort” option. All you need to do is mix the ingredients, shape them into the LoafNest, and bake (safe up to 500F). There is no chance of rust, and you’ll love the non-stick properties of this state-of-the-art Dutch oven and liner.

It’s a cinch to make bread with this Dutch oven for sourdough, even for beginners. However, the most significant caveat is that the handles are on the small side. This can make it a struggle, especially when the Dutch oven is loaded with ingredients and becomes cumbersome.

3. LE TAUCI 3 Quart Dutch Oven (Best 3-Quart Option)

• Key Features: Thick and hefty to lock in moisture, scratch, and rust-resistant, safe up to 950F, can be used on campfires and barbecues, nonporous, chemical-free, non-stick, dishwasher-safe, lighter than cast iron, large side handles
• Material: Clay, Porcelain, Ceramic
• Finish: Non-stick
• Capacity: 3 quarts
• Weight: 5.49 pounds

The Le Tauci Dutch oven may be smaller at just three quarts, but it is anything but basic. In fact, this is one of the most impressive Dutch ovens for sourdough bread on the market. There are many reasons to add this tiny but mighty product to your kitchen arsenal.

For one, this is a clay pot that won’t scratch or rust. It can handle up to 950F and is even safe for use on top of campfires and barbecues. Being thick and hefty, it creates a moist environment that ensures optimal flavor and hydration for your sourdough loaves. Yum!

Last but not least, this clay Dutch oven is entirely non-porous, so you don’t have to worry about any odors or flavors being absorbed or released. Use it to make a stew one night and make sourdough bread in the morning without fear of flavor transfer. 

A few buyers said they had an issue with the pot staining, which was difficult to clean off. Other than that, this three-quart pot has sensational reviews. Some people even have more than one – it’s that good!

4. Instant Electric Precision Dutch Oven (Most Versatile)

• Key Features: Five cooking functions, large capacity, durable and reliable, dishwasher-safe, highly versatile, allows for precision, adjustable temperature
• Material: Cast Iron
• Finish: Enamel
• Capacity: 6 quarts
• Weight: 21 pounds

If you’re not in love with the Instant Pot brand, are you even living? Okay, that might be a bit over the top. But let me tell you this much – Instant Pot has quickly become one of my favorite brands for appliances, whether it’s a pressure cooker, air fryer, or yes – a Dutch oven.

The Instant Dutch oven is designed for ultimate precision and control for professional-grade results. It’s a cinch to use. Oh, and by the way, there are five different cooking options, allowing you to use this Dutch oven for far more than just sourdough bread-baking.

The Dutch oven is designed using heavy-duty cast iron that can be used on the stove or in the oven if desired. It can hold up to an impressive six quarts, which means you can make desirably large loaves of sourdough with ease. The pot and lid are 100% dishwasher-safe!

Customers loved the versatility that this Dutch oven offers. However, some struggled with rust issues. One user claimed that swiping with a damp paper towel with some oil can fix the rusting instantly. Honestly, it’s not a significant issue that most users deal with.

5. Overmont 2 in 1 Dutch Oven (Best Double Dutch)

• Key Features: Convenient lid turns into a skillet, comfortable handles, conducts heat evenly, can be used in high temps, pre-seasoned, recipe Ebook included
• Material: Cast Iron
• Finish: Non-stick
• Capacity: 5 quarts
• Weight: 14.11 pounds

Anything touted as “2-in-1” is an instant winner in my book. There’s just something about versatility that wows me. How about you? If you’re looking for a Dutch oven for sourdough bread that can double as a handy skillet when you need it, look no further than the Overmont double Dutch oven.

This 2-in-1 Dutch oven comes with an extra-large, highly durable Dutch oven for all of your cooking and sourdough-baking purposes. The lid conveniently converts to a skillet, perfect for camping trips or when you don’t want to buy a separate pan for your scrambled eggs.

Built with cast iron, this 2-in-1 product conducts heat evenly and efficiently and can handle impressively high temps. Pre-seasoned, this set is ready to roll when you are. When you’re done, you’ll enjoy two comfortable handles that help you carry even the heaviest loaves.

This is a heavy cast iron Dutch oven for sourdough bread. Some people also thought it was on the rougher side. But keep in mind the seasoning gets better with time. So while it might be a tad harsh at first, over time, it will become far more non-stick.

6. Uno Casa Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with Lid (Best Set)

• Key Features: Durable, stainless steel lid included, silicone pot holder, trivet mat, and E-book included, used with any heat source, wide loop handles, won’t chip or scratch
• Material: Cast Iron
• Finish: Black satin enamel
• Capacity: 6 quarts
• Weight: 13 pounds

Now more than ever, it’s imperative to get the biggest bang for your buck. That’s why I added this attractive set from Uno Casa. The fire engine red and pearly royal blue is downright gorgeous, and you will love the inclusion of a silicone pot holder, trivet mat, and recipe Ebook.

But don’t just buy this dutch oven for sourdough bread because of the extras (although they’re a big selling point – am I right?). Purchase this stellar Dutch oven because it comes with a satin enamel finish that’s 100% nonstick and can be used with any heat source you prefer.

This dutch oven is durable and reliable, too. It’s constructed of sturdy cast iron and an accompanying stainless steel lid to perform all of your sourdough-baking tasks. It’s resistant to unwanted chips and scratches, and the wider loop handles make it a cinch to carry.

Weighing in at 13 pounds, this dutch oven for sourdough bread is no joke. Be prepared to get a good workout in when using this Dutch oven. However, besides the hefty weight, users were incredibly pleased with this top-notch product. 

Best Dutch Oven for Sourdough Bread: Things to Consider

Not sure which Dutch oven is right for you? With so many options, it can be difficult. But don’t worry – I’m here to help you out. Consider these few details when shopping for your new Dutch oven.

Capacity

The first thing to pay attention to is the capacity. Someone baking for themselves or maybe one other person can get by with a smaller version, like a three-quart. Those who want more giant sourdough loaves will need to buy at least a five-quart dutch oven.

Material

Cast iron is typically the go-to for dutch ovens, but clay is also immensely popular. The most significant benefit of clay is that it’s lighter than cast iron but has most of the same features.

Weight

Some of these Dutch ovens are pretty hefty, which can make it challenging to pull in and out of the oven. If the weight of your Dutch oven is something that concerns you, definitely pay attention to this section beneath each product name.

Added Features

Are you looking for something versatile, like a double Dutch oven or a 5-in-1 cooker? How about a Dutch oven with extra-large handles or a non-porous surface that won’t absorb flavors or odors? 

Each Dutch oven comes with its range of “added features.” Your goal is to find which features you can’t live without (or don’t want to live without).

Verdict

While you can’t go wrong with any of these dutch ovens for sourdough bread, the favorite is undeniably the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. It’s a classic dutch oven with proven results that any sourdough bread baker will be satisfied with.

Which Dutch oven do you use for making delicious sourdough bread? Would like to hear your experience 🙂

I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.