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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    Taste of Home

    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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    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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    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

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

    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.

    Can you make everything in a Dutch oven? ›

    No matter the style or size, any Dutch oven will open up endless recipe opportunities. Create beautifully braised meat, pot roasts, hearty beef stew, healing chicken soup, or the creamiest mac and cheese. Use it like a slow cooker, a bread cloche, or a pot for frying.

    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

    Can you damage the enamel in a Dutch oven? ›

    "Avoid using strong chemicals, such as bleach, on your [Dutch oven]," Cruz says. The enamel on Le Creusets and other similar Dutch ovens is delicate, and bleach that isn't properly diluted or is left on the pot for too long can wear at the enamel and dull its shine.

    When should I throw out my Dutch oven? ›

    As to be expected, though, using a Dutch oven often can result in some light dings and scratches, but often the dish is still safe to use. However, if the damage is severe enough that there is actual chipped or peeling enamel on the bottom, then continuing to use the dish is not recommended.

    Can I put a cold Dutch oven on the stove? ›

    Try removing your dutch oven from the refrigerator and setting it out at room temperature so it can begin heating. Once your dutch oven is no longer cold to the touch, you can gradually heat it on the stovetop or in the oven.

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

    Also, you never want to preheat it while empty — this can cause the enamel to crack — so drizzle your olive oil in first and then switch the stovetop on. This applies when you're making no-knead bread, too: Never put a cold, empty pot in a hot oven to heat up.

    Can I cook pasta in a Dutch oven? ›

    The most convincing reason that the Dutch oven is the best pasta pot has to do with its size and shape. When we make pasta, we like to finish it, cooked just short of al dente, in the same pan that we've made our sauce in, where it can become fully coated with our beautifully-emulsified pasta sauce.

    Can I brown meat in a Dutch oven? ›

    But one of the wonderful things about a Dutch oven is that because it's cast iron, you can get it smoking hot on the stovetop and brown your meat directly in it, then add your liquid (after draining off any excess fat) and other ingredients, cover it, lower the heat and continue braising at a low temperature.

    What is good to cook in a Dutch oven? ›

    Dutch ovens are great for stews, sauces, soups, braises or any other moist-heat cooking method. This pot can cook a casserole or a whole chicken. You can brown meat and vegetables on the stove and let them simmer away or transfer your pot to the oven to finish cooking there.

    What is the magic of a Dutch oven? ›

    The magic of a Dutch oven is that it promotes even heat distribution and retention. Unlike regular pots, you can also toss a Dutch oven right into the regular oven.

    Why are Le Creuset 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.

    Can Martha Stewart's Dutch oven go in the oven? ›

    The lid fits good and tight, with concentric circles on the underside to help condensation drip down to the center of the food during cooking. The metal knob is safe in the oven up to 500 degrees, so I have no qualms going from stove to oven. I think what I like most is the pot's pretty paint job.

    What should not be cooked in a cast iron Dutch oven? ›

    Acidic foods (unless you make it snappy)

    Acidic foods (like tomato sauce, wine-braised meats, etc.) enter the red zone when they spend too much time cooking in the skillet. It's particularly important to not marinate anything in a cast-iron pan, as many marinades are quite acidic in order to tenderize the meat.

    What shouldn't you cook in cast iron? ›

    5 Things You Shouldn't Cook in a Cast-Iron Skillet
    1. Eggs.
    2. Fish.
    3. Desserts.
    4. Acidic Foods.
    5. Potent Ingredients.
    Sep 13, 2023

    Can you ruin enameled cast iron? ›

    With enameled cast iron, you'll want to avoid high heat on an empty pan or raising the temperature too quickly because this can cause permanent damage.

    What are the best practices for Dutch oven? ›

    7 Tips for Dutch Oven Cooking
    • Work In Layers. ...
    • Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes. ...
    • Multi-Task. ...
    • Start With a Flavorful Liquid. ...
    • Keep It Low and Slow. ...
    • Take Good Care of Your Dutch Oven. ...
    • Take Advantage of Its Versatility.
    Feb 20, 2024

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