HexClad Dutch Oven Review: This Workhorse Replaces Every Other Pan in My Kitchen
Updated: Jun. 01, 2023
The HexClad Dutch oven cooks just about everything—and looks good doing it.
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As a home chef, I’ve spent a lot of time in the kitchen. And as Taste of Home’s Senior Shopping Editor, I’ve spent even more time researching, testing and writing about the latest gear. I’ve tried almost every type of cookware—from cast iron and ceramic to nonstick and stainless steel.
And, after years of searching, I’ve finally found my Goldilocks pan. It’s not too heavy or fussy, it cooks beautifully and it’s truly nonstick. Say hello to the HexClad Dutch oven.
What is the HexClad Dutch oven?
With a 5-quart capacity, the HexClad Dutch oven is an ideal size for searing, braising, boiling, simmering or baking nearly anything the heart desires. It’s one of many pretty pans that lives up to the hype. Like all HexClad cookware, it features the brand’s signature hybrid design. This surface, made up of steel ridges and nonstick valleys, helps you sear without sticking. It’s truly one of a kind!
The Dutch oven is also safe to use on gas, electric and induction cooktops. Plus, it can withstand oven temps of up to 500 degrees. Other benefits include its light(er) weight and dishwasher-safe construction.
HexClad Dutch Oven Features
- 5-quart capacity
- Measures roughly 7 inches wide x 12 inches high
- Weighs just under 4 pounds
- Oven-safe up to 500 degrees
- Dishwasher-safe
- Lifetime warranty
How We Tested It
I’ve used the HexClad Dutch oven as part of my day-to-day cookware rotation since February 2023. From the packaging alone, I could tell that this beauty was special.
Admittedly it’s not as flashy as other trendy pans—like Caraway cookware or the Always Pan—but it’s still eye-catching. The stainless steel exterior is sleek, while the interior hexagonal surface is unlike any pan I’ve seen before. After a quick wash, it was time to get cooking!
The Stovetop Test: Seared Tofu
For my first test, I wanted to see how the HexClad could handle the bane of my cooking existence: tofu. I’ve been a vegetarian for over a decade and still struggle with this finicky protein. Almost every time I pan-fry tofu, it sticks to the bottom, no matter how much oil I use. I often give up halfway through cooking and turn my neat slices into a tofu scramble.
To start, I patted the tofu dry to remove excess moisture and preheated the Dutch oven over medium heat. I added a thin, even layer of oil to the bottom, then nestled in the slices. The Dutch oven holds a pound of tofu comfortably. I opted to cook it without seasonings or marinades to test the HexClad’s capabilities.
Right away, I was hopeful. The slices slid around the pan with just a touch of my tongs. And when it came time to flip, I was rewarded with a crisp, golden brown crust. No stuck-on bits at all. Even after five more minutes of cooking, the tofu still glided around the pan with ease. I can easily say these were the best (and most intact!) tofu slices I’ve ever cooked. After just one test, HexClad had me hooked.
The Oven Test: Dutch Oven Bread
Next, I wanted to test the pan’s oven-proof capabilities. I whipped up a batch of our Test Kitchen’s Dutch oven bread and got to work. Once my dough had a chance to rest, I preheated the Dutch oven (with the lid on) at 450 degrees for half an hour. This step ensures that, when you go to add your loaf, it creates steam. AKA the secret to a delicious, crackly crust.
Right away, I was impressed with how much easier it is to wrangle the lightweight HexClad over my cast iron or ceramic Dutch oven. I don’t typically mind the extra weight when stovetop cooking. But when lifting a piping hot vessel out of the oven, the lighter, the better!
After shaping and scoring my loaf, I nestled the Dutch oven with parchment paper, put the lid back on and let the oven work its magic. After half an hour, it was time to remove the lid and let the crust brown even further.
Finally, after 20 long minutes of existing in the same space as a baking loaf of bread, it was time to taste. My first thought was: Why do I ever buy bread? My second was: Wow—this is amazing. It took a lot of self-control for me and my partner to not devour the entire loaf in one sitting.
Honestly, this bread alone is reason enough to buy the HexClad Dutch oven. It cooked the loaf to perfection (without any kneading!) and was effortless to lift in and out of the oven. Plus, if it saves me from spending $5 on an artisan loaf every week—well, that’s just the icing, err, butter, on top!
Additional Tests
As I mentioned, I’ve used the HexClad Dutch oven for four months now. In addition to my specific tests, I’ve also used the pan to: boil water for pasta, sear dumplings, brown a veggie burger, simmer soup, stir Rice Krispies treats, saute veggies, caramelize onions—you get the picture. It’s truly one of the most versatile pieces of cookware I’ve ever owned. So much so that if I ever had to pare down my cookware to just one pan, the HexClad Dutch oven is the piece I’d choose.
Pros
- Nonstick hybrid cooking surface
- Works for a variety of cooking tasks, including braising, searing, boiling, simmering and sauteing
- Oven-safe up to 500 degrees
- Lightweight, especially compared to cast iron
- Includes a lid
- Safe to use with metal utensils
- Works with a variety of cooktop types, including induction
- Dishwasher-safe
- Endorsed by professional chef, Gordon Ramsay
Cons
- On the pricey side (unless you buy during a HexClad sale!)
- Only available in stainless steel
FAQ
Is HexClad really scratch-proof?
Yes! You can use metal utensils without worry. I’ve had my Dutch oven for several months, and there’s nary a scratch. That said, avoid using any extra-sharp tools directly against the cookware, such as a knife.
How long will HexClad last?
Only time will tell, but HexClad’s hybrid design is tougher than most nonstick cookware coatings. Plus, the brand offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects.
What Other Reviewers Had to Say
We’re not the only ones upgrading to HexClad cookware. While still fairly new to the market, the Dutch oven has a perfect five-star rating on Amazon.
“We are totally thrilled with our HexClad cookware,” shares verified purchaser, Circuits. “It heats quickly and it cleans up so easily. You can just wipe it out with a paper towel and it looks like new. Eggs don’t stick, cheese doesn’t stick and everything cooks very evenly. I know these are expensive, but you won’t regret treating yourself to the luxury of cooking with HexClad!”
Reviewer Mark Lienau gives high praise, stating: “These really are the Rolls Royce of pans. Best pans I have ever owned. I am 73 and I expect that these are the last pans I’ll ever buy.”
Product Comparison
When it comes to Dutch ovens, HexClad is in good company. I’ve personally worked with two other stalwarts on the market: Le Creuset’s enameled cast iron and Caraway’s ceramic Dutch oven. They are all excellent pieces of cookware, and the pros vs. cons come down to personal preference. In my kitchen, HexClad is the clear winner. Here’s why:
Compared to Le Creuset’s, the HexClad Dutch oven is much lighter. There’s a weight difference of over 7 pounds, and that’s before the Dutch oven is even filled with food. With HexClad, I feel more confident transferring a boiling stew to the table or lifting piping hot bread out of the oven. That said, Le Creuset offers a rainbow of beautiful colors that are hard to beat.
Compared to Caraway, I appreciate HexClad’s versatility. Again, I use both of these pans on the regular. But with Caraway, I need to avoid high heat and metal utensils to preserve the nonstick coating. With HexClad, I don’t have to worry as much.
Final Verdict
I am officially a HexClad convert. (Seriously—the rest of their pots, pans and gear are going on my wedding registry, stat.) I love the pan’s smart, nonstick design and versatility. It’s the vessel I reach for almost every night! For more, read all about the differences between HexClad and All-Clad.
Where to Buy the HexClad Dutch Oven
Pick up the Dutch oven on the HexClad website or on Amazon for $200. While on the pricier side for a Dutch oven, it may very well be the last one you ever buy.
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