This $26.99 Aldi Pot Is a Le Creuset Copycat—I Use It All the Time

I love my seven-quart Dutch oven so much that I often pull it out to make things like smaller batches of mac and cheese and chili. It's massive, though, and a bit like wearing snow boots to the beach. So, when I learned that the Aldi Crofton Two-Quart Cast-Iron Dutch Oven was returning, I knew it was time to add it to my collection. This little powerhouse has all the great features I love about Aldi's enameled cast iron line in the perfect everyday size.

The glossy enamel coating means there's no seasoning required, and that gorgeous cream finish is pretty enough to go straight from stovetop to table, a benefit I will always get behind. Like many of Aldi's special finds, this Crofton piece comes at an incredible price, especially when you consider what else is on the market.

A Le Creuset of this size costs around $260, and a Staub will run you $231. There are more affordable Dutch ovens from brands like Lodge that can be found for less than $50, but they don't have the enameled finish. At just $26.99, the Crofton pot is a genuine steal.

Why I'm Excited About Aldi's Crofton 2-Quart Dutch Oven

I already own and regularly use a couple of Aldi's larger Crofton pieces, so adding this smaller size feels like the natural next step. It's the ideal size for my family of four's favorite creamy parmesan risotto. I'll also easily be able to make a small batch of tomato sauce with the last of summer's tomatoes.

I'm a fan of working with enamel coating because I can confidently cook acidic foods on it without it reacting with the iron. And the fact that it's oven-safe makes it even more versatile—I'm picturing small-batch bread puddings, seasonal crisps and cobbler recipes, and braised vegetables.

From my experience with other Crofton enameled cast iron pieces, I've found that the cast iron heats evenly and retains the heat steadily, which feels essential when you're a busy parent with a multitude of things on the go. I often leave things simmering on my stove while I tend to other dishes or run out to pick up my children, and with this type of heat retention, it's less likely to scorch.

Aldi's Dutch oven is an example of everything I appreciate about a good kitchen find: It solves a real problem, looks beautiful doing it, and costs less than a fancy dinner out. As someone who loves to cook but mainly cooks for a small family, I see myself reaching for this pot often.

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