Best Dutch Ovens for Camping: The Secret of Cooking Yummy Camping Meals
A great way to cook when you're out camping is using a Dutch oven. This versatile cookware work well over an open fire or on a stovetop. They're perfect for cooking stew, soups, stews, or even desserts! You'll love our Best Dutch Ovens For Camping!
Do you love camping and cooking as much as we do?
Dutch oven cooking is a great way to cook delicious meals when you are camping. They're easy to use, and they come in a variety of shapes and size options. Plus, they're affordable, so you can enjoy great food without breaking the bank.
In this blog post, we'll share some of our favorite Dutch Ovens for your camping trips. We'll also tell you all about Dutch ovens, including what they are and how to use them, and even share some of our favorite dutch oven recipes!
So whether you're a camping enthusiast or an experienced chef, read on to learn more about the best Dutch ovens for camping in 2022!
How We Selected The Best Dutch Ovens for camping
Trying to find the best Dutch oven for your camping trips can be a daunting task. With so many different brands, sizes, and features it's hard to know where to start.
Not only do you have to worry about what type of Dutch oven you need, but you also have to think about the material it's made out of, how big it is, and if it has a lid.
We've done all the hard work for you. We've compiled a list of the best dutch ovens for camping based on customer reviews and our own personal experience. So whether you're looking for a cast iron or aluminum dutch oven, a large oven, or maybe a smaller one, we've got you covered.
In our previous article on Camping Cookware, we mentioned about two of our favorite Dutch ovens, the Lodge Camp Dutch Oven and the GSI Outdoors Hard Anodized Dutch Oven. Here we will look at some of our other favorites.
Why You Will Love It
The Camp Chef Classic 10" Dutch Oven is the perfect addition to any kitchen. This durable cast iron build comes with a properly seasoned finish and a flanged lid for placing coals on top.
The Dutch oven can be used for simmering stews and soups, baking bread, and making casseroles. With its timeless design, this Classic Dutch oven is a welcome addition to any kitchen.
What You Should Know
Depth: 3.25"
Volume: 4 qt.
Weight: 14 lbs.
Inside Diameter: 10"
Outside Diameter: 10 .5"
The Camp Chef Dutch oven is perfectly sized for most camping requirements. It comes with a built-in thermometer notch, something which is very helpful while cooking delicate dishes in the oven. The dutch oven is made of durable cast iron and is also preseasoned, so it is ready to use right out of the box. It also comes with a starter booklet with cooking and seasoning tips.
The 10" dutch oven is the perfect size for most camping requirements. It can be used on any heat source, including campfires, and it has a sturdy handle for easy transport or hanging from a tripod over a campfire.
Whether you are an experienced camper or just getting started, the Camp Chef 10" dutch oven is an essential piece of gear.
What Could Have Been Better
If you're looking for a small and lightweight Dutch oven, the Camp Chef 10" might not be the best option. It's still a great product, but it is on the heavier side compared to other similar products.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the Camp Chef doesn't come with a Dutch oven lid lifter. This isn't a huge drawback, but something to be aware of if you're considering this Dutch oven.
Overall, the Camp Chef 10" is a great option if you're looking for a durable and reliable Dutch oven. It's perfect for cooking up stews, soups, and other one-pot meals. Just be aware that it is on the heavy side and doesn't come with a lid lifter.
Why You Will Love It
The Overmont Camp Dutch Oven is perfect for cooking over campfires or hot coals. It heats evenly and keeps the nutrient substance locked, making it a healthier option for cooking. The high-quality cast iron construction ensures durability, while the pre-seasoned finish makes it easy to use.
What You Should Know
Volume: 6 qt.
Depth: 3.64""
Diameter: 11.45"
Weight: 13.69 lbs.
The Overmont camping Dutch oven is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality piece of camping cookware. This oven features sturdy legs on both the pot and the lid, which doubles as a griddle or skillet.
The lid is quite unique in the sense that it is large and comes with sturdy legs and can be used separately as a griddle for cooking and it has a volume of around 1.5 quarts
Additionally, it comes with a Dutch oven lid lifter, making it easy to remove when it's time to serve up your meal. Whether you're an experienced camper or a first-time hiker, Overmont Dutch ovens for camping are a great choice for outdoor cooking.
What Could Have Been Better
Overmont states a volume of 6 quarts in its camp Dutch oven. However, the actual stated volume is the combined volume of the pot and lid. That means the pot itself holds about 4.5 quarts, and the lid holds about 1.5 quarts.
So if you are looking for a Dutch oven for a large group, then buy a size larger. But overall, Overmont Camp Dutch Oven is a top-notch Dutch oven that you can rely on.
Why You Will Love It
The Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch oven is the perfect addition to your camp kitchen or even your home kitchen! Made from 100% cast iron, it is easy to clean and resistant to chipping and warping. The perfect size for any meal, it is perfect for cooking up a storm.
With its pre-seasoned design, it is ready to use right out of the box. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, this Dutch oven is sure to please.
What You Should Know
Volume: 6/8 qt.
Depth: 5.12"/6.3"
Diameter: 13.2"/14"
Weight: 17.11/19.11 lbs.
The Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven is the perfect choice for anyone who loves to cook. This versatile pot can be used for a variety of different recipes, and the cleverly designed lid doubles as a skillet.
The cast iron construction ensures even cooking and superior heat retention, while the preseasoned finish makes it easy to clean.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch Oven is sure to become a camp kitchen staple.
What Could Have Been Better
The Bruntmor Dutch oven is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or over a campfire. However, it is important to note that the Dutch oven does not have legs, which means that it cannot be placed directly on hot coals.
While the lack of legs may seem like a hindrance, it actually makes the Dutch oven more versatile, as it can be used in a variety of different ways. So, next time you are planning a camping trip, make sure to pack your trusty Bruntmor Dutch oven.
Why You Will Love It
Looking for a quality Dutch oven that won't break the bank? Look no further than Texsport's Cast Iron Dutch Oven. This oven is made of sturdy cast iron and features steady legs and a sturdy bail with a center hook, making it perfect for hanging over a fire. It's also affordably priced, making it a great option for budget-minded shoppers.
So if you're in the market for a quality Dutch oven on a budget, be sure to check out Texsport's Cast Iron Dutch Oven.
What You Should Know
Volume: 4 qt.
Height: 7"
Outside Diameter: 10 .6"
Weight: 14 lbs.
The Texsport cast iron Dutch oven is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and reliable option for cooking on a camping trip. This oven is made from heavy-duty cast iron, which ensures that it will withstand repeated use.
The oven distributes heat evenly, making it perfect for cooking a variety of recipes. Additionally, the tight-fitting lid helps to retain heat, making the oven ideal for cooking over an extended period of time. The oven also features a handle that makes it easy to transport or hang over a campfire.
Overall, the Texsport cast iron Dutch oven is an excellent choice for anyone looking for versatility and durability on a budget for cooking while camping.
What Could Have Been Better
The Texsport Cast Iron Dutch Oven does not come with pre-seasoning. Instead, it has a waxy layer that you have to remove. Also, the surface is very rough.
You will need to season the oven before using it. When properly seasoned, the Texsport Cast Iron Dutch Oven will be a great addition to your kitchen.
Also, check out our article on the best campfire starter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Dutch Ovens
Dutch ovens are a great addition to any camp kitchen, but there's so much information out there about them that it can be hard to know where to start.
If you're anything like us, you've probably been wondering what all the fuss is about Dutch ovens. Aren't they just for simple camp cooking?
We're here to tell you that Dutch ovens are so much more than just camping cookware! In fact, they're one of the most versatile pieces of cookware and You can use them for baking, roasting, braising, and even deep frying. We have collected the most frequently asked questions about them and answered them here.
Is a Dutch Oven good for camping?
Yes, a Dutch oven is good for camping and it is the most versatile piece of cookware in your outdoor kitchen. Simply speaking, it is a heavy-duty pot that can be used for cooking over an open fire. It is also good for baking because the thick walls of the pot help retain heat. There are many recipes that can be made in a Dutch oven, so it is a versatile piece of cookware to have while camping. Some of its main advantages are :
- You can use it on almost any kind of cooking surface.
- You can cook a wide array of dishes in a Dutch oven from stews and soups to casseroles and bread.
- It will last for years if maintained properly.
What is the smallest Dutch oven size?
There are four sizes of Dutch ovens that are popular in the U.S. 4, 6, 8, and 10.5 quarts. The smallest size would be the 4 quarts, but there are also mini Dutch ovens that are much smaller, like a 2-quart or even 1-quart size. Though there are some even smaller, less than a quart, those will be more suitable for serving instead of cooking!
What size dutch oven do I really need?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the size of the Dutch oven you'll need depends on a number of factors, including how many people you typically cook for and what kind of dishes you like to make.
If you're cooking for a family of six or more, or if you entertain often, you'll probably want a larger dutch oven (6 quarts or 8 quarts). These sizes will give you plenty of room to make hearty stews, soups, and roasts. They're also big enough to accommodate multiple dishes, so you can cook several items at once.
On the other hand, if you're cooking for four or fewer people and typically make lighter dishes, like pasta or vegetables, a smaller dutch oven (2 quarts or 4 quarts) will be sufficient.
No matter what size you choose, make sure to get one with a lid that fits snugly; otherwise, you'll lose heat and moisture while cooking, and your food won't turn out as well.
What is the best size Dutch oven to buy for camping?
A great size Dutch oven for camping is one that has a diameter of around 8 to 10 inches and a volume of 2 to 5 quarts. This size will allow you to easily prepare meals for most camping needs of 2 to 4 people easily.
If you are looking for a larger Dutch oven, then we recommend one with a diameter of 12 to 14 inches, which can accommodate meals for four or more people. But ultimately it will come down to your personal preferences and the type of dishes you will be making. Also, remember that Dutch ovens are not exactly lightweight, so if you buy a bigger one, it will be difficult to carry.
Which are the materials camping Dutch Ovens are made of?
Traditional Dutch ovens are made of cast iron, meaning they are incredibly tough and durable. However, modern Dutch ovens come in a variety of materials, including ceramic, aluminum, and enameled cast iron. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs.
Cast iron is the original material used for modern Dutch ovens (the first Dutch Ovens were made of Brass), and even today the best Dutch ovens are made from cast iron. Cast iron is incredibly sturdy and will last for decades with proper care. It also heats evenly and holds heat well, which makes it ideal for cooking at high temperatures. One downside of cast iron is that it can be heavy and difficult to transport. Another is that cast iron cookware needs to be seasoned (oiled) regularly to prevent rusting.
Ceramic Dutch ovens are becoming more popular in recent years, as they offer many of the same benefits as cast iron Dutch ovens but with a few key advantages. Ceramic is lighter than cast iron, so it's easier to carry and transport. It also doesn't require seasoning, so it's easier to care for. However, ceramic Dutch ovens can be more expensive than their cast iron counterparts, and they don't distribute heat as evenly.
Aluminium Dutch ovens are known for their portability and are a good choice for campers who are looking for a lightweight option that is easy to transport. Aluminum is also a good conductor of heat, so it heats up quickly and evenly. However, aluminum can react with certain foods, so it's important to choose an aluminum Dutch oven that has a non-reactive coating, such as anodized aluminum.
Enameled cast iron Dutch ovens combine the best features of both cast iron and ceramic Dutch ovens. They are made of cast iron that is coated with a layer of enamel, which makes them non-reactive and easy to clean. Enameled Dutch ovens are also lightweight and don't require seasoning. However, they can be more expensive than other types of Dutch ovens.
Can you put an enameled Dutch oven on a campfire?
Yes, but be sure to use indirect heat. An enameled Dutch oven can withstand high temperatures, but it's important to never let the oven get too hot or the heat will cause the enamel to crack.
To use a Dutch oven on a campfire, place it in the coals on one side of the fire and let it heat up gradually. Once the oven is hot, move it over to the other side of the fire and let it cook slowly. Make sure that you never put the lid on tightly or allow the flames to touch the pot, as this will create too much heat and may damage the enamel.
What's the difference between a Dutch oven and a camp oven?
A Dutch oven and a camp oven may look similar, but they are actually quite different. A Dutch oven is a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid that is typically used for slow cooking techniques, while a camp oven is a portable oven that is typically used for baking.
Dutch ovens are typically made of cast iron or enameled cast iron, while camp ovens are usually made of steel or aluminum.
Dutch ovens are designed to retain heat and moisture, making them ideal for slow-cooking meat and stews. The tight-fitting lid prevents evaporation, ensuring that the food remains moist.
Camp ovens, on the other hand, are designed to be more efficient in heating up and don't have a lid that fits as snugly. This makes them better for baking, as the air can circulate more freely and the heat can escape more easily.
Can I use a Dutch oven without legs over an open flame?
Dutch ovens without legs are mostly built for indoor uses on stovetops. Though it is possible to use a Dutch oven without legs over an open flame, it is highly not recommended. The legs on an outdoor Dutch oven help to circulate air underneath the pot, which helps to cook food evenly and prevents the formation of hot spots.
Without the legs, the pot may not cook evenly and it will be difficult to place them in a coal pit. However, you can try using a tripod for cooking over a campfire if your Dutch oven doesn't have legs.
How do I clean a Dutch oven?
Cleaning a Dutch oven is relatively simple. First, remove any food debris from the pot with a stiff brush. Then, rinse the pot with hot water and soap. Next, scrub the pot with a paste made of baking soda and water. Finally, rinse the pot again with hot water and dry it thoroughly.
If you're still having trouble getting the pot clean, you can try boiling a mixture of water and vinegar inside it. This will help to loosen any stubborn dirt or stains. Just be sure to rinse the pot well afterward to remove any residual vinegar taste.
What are the best Dutch oven recipes for camping?
Four of our favorite easy-to-make recipes that we do with our camping Dutch ovens include:
1. One of the easiest Dutch oven recipes for camping is a simple pot roast. Start by browning a chuck roast in the bottom of your Dutch oven over medium heat, then add some chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes. Pour in a can of beef broth and cover the pot with its lid to let everything simmer until it's nice and tender.
2. Another great Dutch oven recipe for camping is chicken and dumplings. Start by browning some chicken breasts in the bottom of your Dutch oven, then add some sliced carrots, celery, and onion. Pour in a can of cream chicken soup and cover with its lid to let everything simmer until it's cooked through. Finally, drop dumplings made from Bisquick mix into the pot and let them cook until they are fluffy and golden brown.
3. For a sweet treat, try making a Dutch oven peach cobbler. Start by mixing together a can of peaches, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch in the bottom of your Dutch oven. Pour in a can of Bisquick mix, then dot the top with butter or margarine. Cover the pot with its lid and bake everything until it's nice and bubbly. Serve hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
4. Another great option for dessert is Dutch oven apple crisp. Start by mixing together sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch in the bottom of your Dutch oven. Pour a can of Bisquick mix over the top, then dot with butter or margarine. Cover the pot with its lid and bake until everything is nice and crisp. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
No matter what you're looking for, there's sure to be a Dutch oven recipe that's perfect for your next camping trip. For some in-depth cooking tutorials and new recipe ideas, you can refer to this blog. So get out there and give one of these recipes a try!
Factors to Consider When Looking for A Dutch Oven for Camping
When looking for a camping Dutch oven, it is important to consider several factors.
First, you need to decide what size Dutch oven you need. A small Dutch oven is ideal for one or two people, while a larger one is better for families or groups.
Second, you need to think about what type of food you will be cooking in the Dutch oven. If you plan on cooking lots of meat, then you will want an oven that has good heat retention.
Third, you should consider how easy the Dutch oven is to clean. If you are planning on using it frequently, then ease of cleaning is a big factor.
Fourth, you need to decide what material the Dutch oven is made out of. Some materials have better heat distribution and retention than others, so if you are looking for an oven that will cook food evenly, then you should look for one made out of cast iron.
Finally, you need to consider the price. Dutch ovens can be quite expensive, so if you are on a budget, then you may want to look for a cheaper model.
So, What Is The Best Dutch Oven For Your Camping Needs
When it comes to cooking in your camp kitchen, you can't go wrong with an outdoor Dutch oven. This type of pot is perfect for slow-cooking stews and braises, and thanks to its thick walls and heavy-duty lid, it can also be used for baking.
For your reference, our top rated dutch ovens for camping are:
Best Overall - Camp Chef Classic 10" Dutch Oven
Runner Up - Overmont Camp Dutch Oven
Best For Campfire - Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Dutch
Best Budget Pick - Texsport Cast Iron Dutch
All you have to do is just click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons & add them to your cart.
We hope this article has helped make your decision a little easier in choosing a good Dutch oven for your camping needs. All these camp Dutch ovens are really great options for most cooking needs, but if you’re still not sure which one is right for you among these, you can also pick the Lodge Dutch Oven which we mentioned in our article on Camping Cookware.
And don’t forget to check out our other camping guides for everything you need to kit out your perfect camp kitchen. Happy camping!
Also, look a some of the other articles we have written:
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