Summary
The Chasseur vs Le Creuset debate is over and here is my summary. I would opt for Le Creuset Dutch ovens every time. If you cannot afford to pay Le Creuset prices, then I will list a range below that are around the Chasseur prices below.
Chasseur vs Le Creuset
This is an interesting comparison that I was asked to make. I had heard of Chasseur Dutch ovens and was intrigued by them. They like Le Creuset are made in France, come in a range of sizes and colors and are made by an old company. I had never actually physically seen one though which meant that I had to find one to buy.
For the Chasseur, the information is based on reviews and user reviews. This should provide a relatively accurate impression of them.
The Le Creuset Dutch oven review was much simpler since I had already reviewed the Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5.5 Quart Dutch oven. It had formed part of the Best Oven test I conducted to recommend the best one. I will summarize it below in the table but you can read the full review here.
Chasseur vs Le Creuset Review
Chasseur
Product Name: Chasseur 5.5 quart Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven
Product Description: Made in France, Chasseur Dutch Ovens are perfect for cooking delicious soups, stews and roasts. Valued for its versatility on all cooking surfaces its even heating properties, energy saving and exceptional browning capability.
Overall
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Cooking
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Build
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Design
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Value
Summary
The general feedback seems to be positive. They are well constructed with a good finish and range of colours. They are French made so you know that is a sign of quality and their long heritage means they should be respected as a Dutch oven maker.
Pros
- Range of colors
- Made in France
- 10 year warranty
- Stainless steel knobs safe to 450 degrees
- 13.5 x 10.8 x 7 inches & 13.11 pounds
- 450F
Cons
- Limited reputation in the US
Le Creuset Signature Dutch Oven 5½-Quart Review
Product Name: Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5.5 Quart
Product Description: This is one of the most iconic Dutch ovens around, setting the standard for others to follow. In a wide array of colours to suit all tastes, this versatile Dutch oven is perfect for every cooking style.
Overall
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Cooking
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Build
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Design
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Value
Summary
A wonderful choice that you cannot be disappointed with. Fantastic cooking performance, world class build and a Dutch oven to last generations.
Pros
- Lightest cast iron available
- Tight-fitting lid
- Easy grip side handles
- Chip and crack resistant
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons
- The highest price on the market
Summary of the Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5.5 Quart
I completed a full test of the Le Creuset Dutch oven as part of the Best Dutch oven test as I mentioned earlier. The Le Creuset was tested and measured in four areas…cooking performance, build quality, design & aesthetics and finally, value.
The test was completed by making a beef stew. This was chosen as it involved searing the beef on a stovetop and then moving it to an oven to complete.
Cooking performance
The cooking performance on this Le Creuset was fantastic, as you would expect. It seared very well and the final result out of the oven was fantastic. The beef was moist and tender and the sauce was thick and full of flavor.
Build quality
You would expect fantastic build quality on the Le Creuset based on the price alone. It did not disappoint. Everything was perfectly constructed and its clear why Le Creuset are seen as the market leader.
Design
Le Creuset have spawned a thousand copycats since they brought out the first enamel Dutch oven. Their design has changed very little over the years for good reason…it simply works. It is iconic. The new Signature range which overtook the classic range has wider and larger handles and can survive 500F in the oven. These incremental improvements to design keep them at the top of the market.
Value
I made the point that although the price was the highest, the real question was the value that you get. All things considered such as second-hand values, potential to become collector’s items, warranty and the ability of them to last generations, I found them to be worth every penny.
Verdict
Chasseur vs Le Creuset…the Chasseur offers better value for money and is also made in France. That is where the similarities end. The Le Creuset is a better product, better finished and has a support system in place that leaves everybody else behind. They actually do what they say they will and a legion of loyal customers are testament to that.
My recommendation, buy the Le Creuset. If your budget does not stretch to the Le Creuset, consider the following;
Staub 5.5 Quart Cocotte
Lodge Enamel 6 Quart Dutch oven
Marquette castings
Cuisinart Enamel Dutch oven
Summary of Chasseur 5.5 quart Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven
The generally held view was that it was a good Dutch oven and that those with the experience of owning a few different ones, found little difference with the premium brands. The construction was good with a double enamel layer providing good coverage.
All in all, it was a good mid ranger that fell below the standards of the premium brands like Le Creuset and Staub but were better than the Chinese versions.
Should I buy a Chasseur Dutch oven?
It would be difficult for me to recommend the Chasseur without having actually used it. The way they handle and cook is different for each Dutch oven. What I do know is that they are not too common in the US which leads to questions about the support network should you have any issues.
I would therefore look at the alternatives I have listed.
If you do have a Chasseur Dutch oven, please leave a comment below on where you bought it, how it performs and whether you would recommend them to others.
Frequently asked questions
What is the history of Chasseur?
Chasseur were established in 1924 at the Invicta foundry in Donchery, in the French Champagne Ardenne region. They fully make their own cast iron and enamel products in house.
Where can I buy Chasseur?
You can buy them online at their official stockists. They will ship to the US but if you want to buy them from a stockist here, Amazon is your best bet.
What else do Chasseur make?
Chasseur make a range of cast iron goods and also other cookware. Items include;
- Dutch ovens
- Grill pans
- Skillets
- Grills
- Dishes
What is an enamel Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven is a cast iron pot with a tight-fitting lid. They are designed to move from stovetop to the oven. The cast iron is coated with enamel which is a glass. This gives them almost non-stick qualities but importantly, makes them easier to maintain and clean.
Where is Chasseur made?
Invicta foundry in Donchery, Champagne Ardenne region, France
Do Le Creuset make the best Dutch ovens?
They can certainly claim to do so although Staub can also make that claim. Le Creuset were the pioneers of enamel Dutch ovens and they have a lot of history and expertise behind them.
