36 Dutch Oven Dinner Recipes We're Making All Winter Long (2024)

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36 Dutch Oven Dinner Recipes We're Making All Winter Long (1)Lisa KaminskiUpdated: Feb. 13, 2024

    On chilly days, there's nothing more comforting than a hot meal. These low-and-slow Dutch oven dinners are sure bets for staying warm and full.

    Saturday Afternoon Oven Pot Roast

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    Taste of Home

    This pot roast will be a welcome sight and will leave your house smelling heavenly. If the cooking liquid evaporates quickly, add more broth to the Dutch oven. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

    Need a side with that? Cozy up to these delicious Dutch oven side dish recipes.

    One-Pot Mac and Cheese

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    Taste of Home

    This one-pot mac and cheese is a family favorite, and my 3-year-old is always thrilled to see it coming to the dinner table. We love to add sliced smoked sausage to this creamy mac recipe! —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin

    Find 100 more Dutch oven recipes to love.

    Favorite Corned Beef and Cabbage

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    It may be the most famous dish to eat on St. Patrick’s Day, but this Irish-American corned beef recipe is a favorite at our table all year long. This is how to make corned beef and cabbage. —Evelyn Kenney, Trenton, New Jersey

    Apple Cider Chicken 'n' Dumplings

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    Taste of Home

    I came up with this recipe one fall when I had an abundance of apple cider. Adding some to a down-home classic was a delectable decision. —Margaret Sumner-Wichmann, Questa, New Mexico

    Finish your meal with one of our best Dutch oven dessert recipes.

    Favorite Hamburger Stew

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    I got this hamburger stew recipe from a woman at our church, Lois Henry, when I needed a way to use up our bounty of home-canned tomatoes. My husband loves it, and I like that it's easy to warm up for a carefree dinner in the winter months. —Marcia Clay, Truman, Minnesota

    Cashew Rice Pilaf

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    This hearty dish will add pizazz to your plate with its beautiful blend of flavors and colors. I often serve it as a main course with salad and bread. —Tina Coburn, Tucson, Arizona

    Creamy Seafood Bisque

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    Taste of Home

    This deceptively simple bisque makes a special first course or even a casual meal with a salad or bread. I like to top bowlfuls with shredded Parmesan cheese and green onions. —Wanda Allende, Orlando, Florida

    These Dutch oven soup recipes are perfect for chilly nights.

    One-Pot Salsa Chicken

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    This skillet recipe is a colorful and healthy main dish that can be on the table in just over an hour. The subtle sweet-spicy flavor is a nice surprise. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts

    Start your meal with one of these Dutch oven appetizers.

    Meatless Chili Mac

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    I came across this recipe in a newspaper years ago and it’s been a hit at our house ever since. It’s fast and flavorful, and it appeals to all ages. — Cindy Ragan, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania

    Check out more vegetarian Dutch oven recipes the whole family will love.

    Traditional Italian Wedding Soup

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    You don’t have to be Italian to love this easy-to-make soup with tiny round pasta! Homemade meatballs pair beautifully with ready-made stock and rotisserie chicken. —Mary Sheetz, Carmel, Indiana

    Wake up to one of these beloved Dutch oven breakfast recipes.

    Glazed Corned Beef

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    Taste of Home

    I serve this delicious entree each St. Patrick's Day, even though my family is Dutch, not Irish. The tender meat is topped with a simple, tangy glaze that is so tasty. Leftovers make excellent Reuben sandwiches. —Perlene Hoekema, Lynden, Washington

    Coconut Curry Chicken Soup

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    Similar to a Vietnamese pho rice noodle soup, this red coconut curry chicken soup packs big flavor and a bit of heat. The crisp raw vegetables help cool things down. —Monnie Norasing, Mansfield, Texas

    Craving more? We love these other Dutch oven chicken recipes, too. This Dutch oven chicken thighs recipe is a must-try.

    Creamy Noodle Casserole

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    My husband, Ronald, works long hours and frequently doesn't arrive home until past 7 p.m. This casserole is ideal for those late nights—it's just as tasty after it's been warmed in the microwave. —Barb Marshall, Pickerington, Ohio

    Chunky Vegetarian Chili

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    This robust chili teams rice, kidney and pinto beans, and a variety of colorful vegetables for a hearty meatless meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

    Learn how to make a Dutch oven chicken.

    Big-Batch Jambalaya

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    I make this dish for football-watching parties because it feeds so many people. It leaves my mouth watering for it the rest of the year! —Kecia McCaffrey, South Dennis, Massachusetts

    Firehouse Chili

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    Taste of Home

    As one of the cooks at the firehouse, I used to prepare meals for 10 men. This firehouse chili recipe was among their favorites. —Richard Clements, San Dimas, California

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    Garlic and herb cream cheese adds subtle notes of flavor to this creamy, hearty soup. On a chilly day, it's like having a bowlful of comfort. —Shelisa Terry, Henderson, Nevada

    Bavarian Pot Roast

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    Taste of Home

    Since all my grandparents were German, it's no wonder that so many Bavarian recipes have been handed down to me. Because the Midwest has such a large German population, I feel this recipe represents the area well. —Susan Robertson, Hamilton, Ohio

    Cazuela

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    Taste of Home

    I learned to make this dish while we were living in Chile for a few months. We grow extra butternut squash in our garden just for this recipe. —Louise Schmid, Marshall, Minnesota

    Stamp-of-Approval Spaghetti Sauce

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    My father is very opinionated, especially about food. This recipe received his almost unreachable stamp of approval. I have yet to hear a disagreement from anyone who has tried it! —Melissa Taylor, Higley, Arizona

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    Taste of Home

    When I moved to New England, I embraced the local cuisine. My cassoulet with baked beans pays tribute to a French classic and to New England in one hearty, heartwarming dish. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut

    Chicken and Dumplings

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    Perfect for fall nights, my simple version of comforting chicken and dumplings is speedy, low in fat and a delicious one-dish meal. —Nancy Tuck, Elk Falls, Kansas

    Stuffed Pepper Soup

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    TMB studio

    I was talking about stuffed peppers with the other cooks at the restaurant where I work. We decided to mix similar ingredients for a soup. Customer response was overwhelming! —Krista Muddiman, Meadville, Pennsylvania

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    With chicken, pasta and a bold tomato broth, this hearty and inviting soup is like a big comforting hug in a bowl! —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida

    Land of Enchantment Posole

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    My family named this spicy soup after our state moniker, “New Mexico, Land of Enchantment.” We usually make it around Christmas when we have lots of family over…and we never have leftovers.—Suzanne CaldwellArtesia, New Mexico

    Soup-Bowl Cabbage Rolls

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    This fabulous alternative to traditional stuffed cabbage rolls is so handy for busy weeknights. It warms you up from head to toe. —Terri Pearce, Houston, Texas

    Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

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    My whole family enjoys this sweet potato black bean chili, but my daughter especially loves it. I like to make it because it's so easy and very flavorful. —Joy Pendley, Ortonville, Michigan

    One-Pot Spaghetti Dinner

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    All you need is one pot to make this meal that features a simple homemade sauce. Allspice adds a unique taste, but you can use Italian seasoning if you prefer. —Carol Benzel-Schmidt, Stanwood, Washington

    Slow-Simmered Burgundy Beef Stew

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    My mother-in-law shared this recipe with me about 25 years ago. Ever since then, it's been a go-to whenever I need good food without a lot of fussing. —Mary Lou Timpson, Colorado City, Arizona

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    To give our mac and cheese a Sicilian touch, we mix sausage, basil and fennel with three cheeses for an incredibly comforting casserole. —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California

    Mom's Roast Beef

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    Taste of Home

    Everyone loves slices of this fork-tender roast beef with its savory gravy. The well-seasoned roast is Mom's specialty. People always ask about the secret ingredients. Now you have the delicious recipe for our favorite meat dish! —Linda Gaido, New Brighton, Pennsylvania

    Spicy White Chili

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    Taste of Home

    I thought the original version of this dish was fine. But my son can't get enough spice, so I added green chiles and other seasonings until I'd created a quick and easy chili he's wild about. —Carlene Bailey, Bradenton, Florida

    Lamb Stew

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    My grandmother used to make this stew as a special Sunday meal. It’s an unforgettable treat from Ireland. —Vickie Desourdy, Washington, North Carolina. If you’re looking for healthy recipes, check out our collection of low-carb dinner recipes.

    Minestrone with Turkey

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    Taste of Home

    I remember my mom making this soup; now I make it for my kids as often as I can. It's a good way to use up leftover vegetables. Sometimes I add a can of rinsed and drained kidney or garbanzo beans. —Angela Goodman, Kaneohe, Hawaii

    Originally Published: January 08, 2020

    36 Dutch Oven Dinner Recipes We're Making All Winter Long (36)

    Lisa Kaminski

    Lisa is a formerTaste of Home editor and passionate baker. During her tenure, she poured her love of all things sweet (and sometimes savory) into Bakeable, Taste of Home's baking club. Lisa also dedicated her career here to finding and testing the best ingredients, kitchen gear and home products for our Test Kitchen-Preferred program. At home, you'll find her working on embroidery and other crafts.

    36 Dutch Oven Dinner Recipes We're Making All Winter Long (2024)

    FAQs

    Is there anything you shouldn't cook in a Dutch oven? ›

    In an enamel-coated Dutch oven, prolonged cooking with acidic ingredients may discolor the interior coating but doesn't erode it. The bottom line is, if using a seasoned cast iron Dutch oven with highly acidic foods, ensure the pot is well seasoned and limit cooking to short periods.

    Can you use a Dutch oven for everyday cooking? ›

    A good cast iron Dutch oven is a must for any serious home cook. Whether it's a holiday or a typical weekday, this cookware will have your meals making the grade and then some. No matter the style or size, any Dutch oven will open up endless recipe opportunities.

    How long will something stay warm in a Dutch oven? ›

    This means that soups, stews and anything with "braised" in the title should be at the top of your Dutch oven recipe list. The durable cast-iron keeps the food at a consistent temperature for even cooking. Plus, when removed from the heat, the dish will stay piping hot for at least 30 minutes.

    What's the big deal about a Dutch oven? ›

    The Dutch oven is the master of the stovetop. Since it's basically a wider, heavier version of a stockpot, it's a good pick to simmer broth or cook up big batches of beans. The cast iron core can get hot enough to quickly sear chunks of meat and brown veggies.

    What foods cannot be cooked in cast iron? ›

    4 Foods You Shouldn't Cook in Cast Iron
    • Acidic foods (unless you make it snappy) ...
    • Fish (particularly delicate varieties) ...
    • Eggs. ...
    • Skillet brownies (if you just fried a batch of chicken last night) ...
    • A lot more (if your skillet isn't properly seasoned)
    Mar 11, 2023

    Can you put the lid of a Dutch oven in the oven? ›

    You may need to take the lid off part way through the cooking process. However, some recipes may call for the lid to be off from the beginning, so consult your recipe. If the lid is not oven-safe, you'll need to leave it off no matter what. Tip: Most Dutch ovens come with oven-safe lids, but not all do.

    Do professional chefs use Dutch ovens? ›

    And while there are plenty of sizes to choose from, like oval Dutch ovens, or shallow Dutch ovens, Cimarusti prefers the classic Le Creuset 5.5-quart Dutch oven. “The attention to detail is just great,” he says. If a Michelin-starred chef uses one everyday, it's worth adding to your kitchen.

    Are Martha Stewart Dutch ovens good? ›

    The MARTHA STEWART Gatwick 7 QT Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven in Martha Blue is a great pot!. Its enamel-coated cast iron construction ensures even heating and long-lasting durability.

    What are 10 reasons to use a Dutch oven? ›

    What Is a Dutch Oven Used For?
    • Bread. One of the easiest (and more surprising) ways to use a Dutch oven is actually for breaking bread. ...
    • Casseroles and Lasagnas. ...
    • Skillet Cookies. ...
    • Chicken Stock. ...
    • Frying. ...
    • Braised Meats. ...
    • Roasting. ...
    • Poaching Chicken.
    Oct 27, 2022

    When should I throw out my Dutch oven? ›

    Though Dutch ovens may last a long time, they might not last forever. It's time to replace your Dutch oven if you see the enamel chipping inside of the pot.

    Why can't you heat an empty Dutch oven? ›

    Don't preheat an empty dutch oven on your stovetop—this can cause your cookware to crack or break. Some bread recipes call for preheating the dutch oven in the oven. This is perfectly safe to do since the heat will be more consistently distributed across the entire dutch oven.

    Do I preheat my Dutch oven with the lid on? ›

    The most common method is: Preheat Dutch oven in the oven with the lid off at 500F/260C. Many bakers will continue preheating for 10-20 minutes after the oven reaches target temperature to ensure the Dutch oven is at its hottest. Lower the loaf into the Dutch oven using a sling made of parchment or silicone.

    What is better than a Dutch oven? ›

    Explore versatile alternatives to Dutch ovens for your cooking needs: stock pots, casserole dishes, slow cookers, roasting pans, cast iron skillets, and clay pots. Adjust cooking techniques and monitor closely when using substitutes.

    What makes a Le Creuset Dutch oven so expensive? ›

    When you buy from Le Creuset, you're paying for high-quality pots and pans that are designed to stand the test of time. Rather than aluminum or stainless steel, Le Creuset craft their pieces from cast iron, which has a much higher heat capacity.

    What is a Dutch oven trick? ›

    In that case, we recommend the infamous Dutch oven prank. For the uninitiated, a Dutch oven involves farting in bed, then quickly pulling up the sheets to trap your significant other with the smell. It's a decades-old trick that has surely ruined countless relationships, yet many dudes still dare to try it.

    Can I cook anything in my Dutch oven? ›

    A Dutch oven gets hot and stays hot, meaning it can accommodate a wide range of cooking techniques. Of these techniques, the most common are braising, stewing, browning, frying, and baking.

    Is Dutch oven safe for health? ›

    With a healthy living Dutch oven, you won't have to worry about toxic chemicals getting released into your food. Ceramic and cast iron Dutch ovens typically feature an enamel coating, giving them nonstick capabilities without the dangers of PFOA. They also don't leach aluminum, even at very high heat.

    Can I brown meat in a Dutch oven? ›

    Browning is typically used to inject flavour into meats, but can also be done on vegetables and desserts. The Dutch Oven can easily be used to brown food thanks to its large surface and material, consistently exposing ingredients to heat.

    Are enamel coated Dutch ovens safe? ›

    The porcelain enamel isn't just for looks; it protects the cast iron, making it rust-resistant and nonreactive to acidic foods like tomato. The most ubiquitous enameled cast iron pieces, Dutch ovens, are great for simmering soups and stews, braising big cuts of meat, frying chicken, and even baking bread.

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