# Enameled Cast Iron: Pros, Cons, and How It Compares to Bare Cast Iron - Made In When shopping for new cookware, it’s important to be objective. Here are both the pros and cons of enameled cast iron cookware to consider before buying. Is there anything more iconic in the kitchen than a colorful enameled cast iron? You’ll see the type of cookware in a range of sizes, pots, and styles, from saucepans to Dutch ovens. The material is so popular because it’s sturdy, long-lasting, and also performs incredibly well. Cast iron is renowned for its heat retention capabilities, providing the ideal cooking vessel for stews, soups, breads, braises, beans, and more. You can even deep fry in enameled cast iron pots, or shallow fry in skillets and braisers. Below, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of enameled cast iron so you’re fully briefed on what to expect before adding this material to your kitchen. ```json { "_key": "8fab6d9d2bdd", "_type": "tableOfContents" } ``` ## Understanding Enameled Cast Iron ```json { "_key": "fb79eb2c86d4", "_type": "medium", "ctas": null, "description": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": "enameled cast iron set orange", "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.9565217391304348, "height": 920, "width": 1800 }, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/681a4101e59614a5659f7abd3008c703c32bc1c9-1800x920.jpg" } }, "tags": null, "type": "image", "video": null } ``` The defining trait of enameled cast iron is—as you may guess—the enamel coating. Enamel coating is made from glass melted under intense heat, creating a non stick cooking surface and also protecting the cast iron from [reactive](/blogs/what-is-a-nonreactive-pan) (aka acidic) ingredients that may cause rust or corrosion. This means you don’t need to season the pan before use, and you can also cook acidic ingredients without worry of deteriorating the seasoning. Most importantly, though, enameled cast iron gives you the best qualities of cooking with [unfinished cast iron](/blogs/enameled-cast-iron-vs-cast-iron): even heat distribution and retention. Enameled cast iron typically has a light-colored cooking surface, which makes it easier for you to track how much your food is browning. Popular cookware pieces made with enameled cast iron include [Dutch ovens](/products/dutch-oven/blood-orange), [braisers](/products/traeger-x-made-in-enameled-cast-iron-braiser/black), [saucepans](/products/cast-iron-saucepan/harbour-blue), and [skillets](/products/cast-iron-skillet/made-in-red). Our [collection](/collections/enameled-cast-iron) is made by multi-generational artisans in Northeast France, where they’ve been pouring cast iron since the 1920s. ```json { "_key": "f3e49bbaade8", "_type": "cta", "title": "Shop Enameled Cast Iron Cookware", "url": "/collections/enameled-cast-iron" } ``` ## Pros of Enameled Cast Iron ```json { "_key": "aac3aff10569", "_type": "medium", "ctas": null, "description": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": "A blue enameled cast iron pot with a lid sits on a kitchen counter beside a bowl containing garlic and onions, with spices nearby.", "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.8, "height": 1000, "width": 1800 }, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/0f5582a4587b69b6c9ccc01098220eb39369570b-1800x1000.jpg" } }, "tags": null, "type": "image", "video": null } ``` We are, as you may guess, huge fans of enameled cast iron. The pros of enameled cast iron include their durability, non-reactive cooking surface, and versatility. ### Durability and Longevity Cast iron can withstand high temperatures and lots of use without wearing down. It will last generations if it’s correctly cared for. (There’s a reason you see so much cast iron in antique shops!) Enameled cast iron comes with its own guidelines for [cleaning and care](/blogs/how-to-clean-enameled-cast-iron), which we’ve covered in detail. ### Non-Reactive Cooking Surface The enamel coating, applied by hand to ensure even coverage, prevents the iron core from reacting with acidic foods like vinegar, wine, tomatoes, and citrus. That means you can cook a variety of sauces and soups in enameled cast iron without worrying about a metallic taste, discoloration, or eroding the cooking surface or hard-earned seasoning. ### Is Enameled Cast Iron Safe? Yes. The glass-based enamel coating on cast iron cookware is inert—it does not leach metals, chemicals, or synthetic compounds into food during cooking. Unlike bare cast iron, which can transfer trace amounts of dietary iron (generally harmless and sometimes beneficial), enameled cast iron creates a sealed barrier between the iron core and your ingredients. Reputable enameled cast iron—including pieces from Made In—is tested for lead and cadmium to comply with safety standards. The [Made In Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven](/products/dutch-oven/harbour-blue) is manufactured in France using food-safe glazes that contain no PFOA, PFOS, or other synthetic non-stick chemicals. The one safety consideration: chipped enamel. If the enamel cracks or chips down to bare iron, that spot loses its non-reactive properties. Minor chips on the rim are cosmetic, but chips on the cooking surface mean it’s time to replace the piece. ```json { "_key": "36ecaa291453", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "variant.42178249621583", "badges": [], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "compare_at_price": 478, "discount": 27, "isAvailable": true, "isPrimary": true, "offset": 129, "price": 349, "status": "forSale" }, "handle": { "current": "3-piece-harbour-blue" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [], "meta": { "hasCollegiate": false, "hasTrial": true, "hasWaitList": false, "isCollegiate": false, "isFinalSale": false, "isHidden": false, "isOnSale": true, "isSet": false, "promoDates": null, "promoPrice": null, "warranty": "lifetime" }, "product": { "ranking": 29, "rating": { "rating": 4.89, "rating_count": 97 }, "shopify": { "handle": "enameled-cast-iron-set", "id": 6915102539855, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Web_EnameledCastIron_Set_5p_HarbourBlue_1x1_001.jpg?v=1762199887", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Enameled Cast Iron Set" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 42178249621583, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/EnamelCastIron_3p_set_HarbourBlue.jpg?v=1727384033", "width": 1500 }, "option1": "3-Piece", "option2": "Harbour Blue", "option3": null, "title": "3-Piece / Harbour Blue" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "induction-compatible" }, "title": "Induction Compatible", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "oven-safe" }, "title": "Oven Safe", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "pfas-free" }, "title": "Free of PFAS", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "third-party-tested" }, "title": "Third-Party Tested", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "france" }, "title": "France", "type": "country_of_origin" }, { "handle": { "current": "enameled-cast-iron" }, "title": "Enameled Cast Iron", "type": "material" }, { "handle": { "current": "dutch-oven" }, "title": "Dutch Ovens", "type": "product_type" }, { "handle": { "current": "frying-pans" }, "title": "Frying Pans", "type": "product_type" } ], "title": null } } ``` ### Low Maintenance Unlike traditional (non coated) cast iron, the enamel coating means you don’t need to season your cookware. Since the enamel coating provides a non stick cooking surface, cleaning up is also easier. On the occasion that [sticking, discoloration, or burning](/blogs/how-to-clean-burnt-enameled-cast-iron) does happen, though, we've got you covered with how to fix it. ### Versatility Enameled cast iron works on every cooktop—gas, electric, ceramic, and induction—and handles oven temperatures up to 580F (depending on the brand and lid material). That makes it one of the most versatile materials in any kitchen. The [Made In Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven](/products/dutch-oven/harbour-blue) handles stovetop braising, oven roasting, and even bread baking without switching vessels. One limitation to note: enameled cast iron is not recommended for open-fire or grill use, where temperatures can spike well beyond 580F and damage the enamel coating. For campfire cooking and high-heat outdoor use, bare cast iron—which handles temperatures up to 900F—is the better choice. ### Aesthetic Appeal Perhaps the biggest perk—beyond their versatility, durability, and utility—is the color. Enameled cast iron features a variety of color finishes, making them quite the attractive addition to your kitchen. Their curb appeal means they also work well for serving tableside. ## Considerations of Enameled Cast Iron ```json { "_key": "97c14f3c24af", "_type": "medium", "ctas": null, "description": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": "cast iron skillet seasoning", "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.9565217391304348, "height": 920, "width": 1800 }, "lqip": "data:image/jpeg;base64,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" }, "url": "https://cdn.sanity.io/images/fr9flhkd/main/db4105334551ab24d80f8429381b24beace19b37-1800x920.jpg" } }, "tags": null, "type": "image", "video": null } ``` When choosing if enameled cast iron is right for you, take the following into account. ### Heavy Weight Cast iron is made from pouring molten iron into a mold. While our cast iron is made with compounds that reduce the finished weight of the cookware, it’s still heavier than other materials like carbon steel and stainless steel. Especially with larger pieces like Dutch ovens, this can make them difficult to handle if you struggle with heavy cookware. ### Higher Price Point Enameled cast iron will generally cost more than non-enameled and other types of cookware. But since it lasts for years, that investment may be worth it (and ultimately rounds out to being less expensive than buying cheaper pots and pans more often). ### Care Considerations Enamel coating requires a bit more [care](/blogs/how-to-clean-your-dutch-oven) than you may be used to. If the coating chips—from rough handling or abrasive cooking tools, for example—then the performance may be affected. Repairing enamel is doable, but it can be expensive. ### Slow to Heat Compared to the super heat conductivity of stainless steel, cast iron takes longer to heat up. (See this in action in our video on [cooking eggs](/blogs/best-pan-for-eggs), where the enameled cast iron skillet takes 5 minutes versus stainless steel’s 2 ½.) While this may mean you don’t reach for enameled cast iron when you need to quickly cook something, it doesn’t ultimately detract from the cookware’s performance. ### Not for High-Heat Dry Cooking The best way to preserve the enamel is to heat your cookware with oil or liquid. Dry heat—like when making bread in a Dutch oven, or searing ingredients without oil—can damage the enamel over time. Excessive high heat can also cause damage. ## Enameled Cast Iron vs Bare Cast Iron: Which Should You Choose? Both enameled and bare cast iron share the same foundation—heavy iron that retains heat and distributes it evenly. The difference is the surface. ```json { "_key": "309f95371c8b", "_type": "tableSection", "data": { "_type": "tableSection", "config": null, "description": null, "sheetId": "1YBj7Eae0CrmEU7kU5llDB51z3GPcEtN3kIFMo2CsfhI", "title": null } } ``` ## The Bottom Line Enameled cast iron earns its place in a serious kitchen. The non-reactive surface handles acidic ingredients that would strip seasoning from bare iron. The enamel requires zero maintenance beyond hand washing. And the heat retention turns a Dutch oven into a countertop bread oven or an all-day braising vessel. The tradeoffs—weight, price, a 580F temperature ceiling—are real but manageable for most home cooks. **If enameled cast iron fits your cooking style:** Try the [Made In Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven](/products/dutch-oven/harbour-blue), [Enameled Cast Iron Braiser](/products/cast-iron-braiser/harbour-blue), or [Enameled Cast Iron Skillet](/products/cast-iron-skillet/harbour-blue). ```json { "_key": "39c62637f6c3", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "f6905a87-292f-4f28-8bef-7245f3b08a63", "badges": [], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "compare_at_price": 677, "discount": 29, "isAvailable": true, "isPrimary": false, "offset": 198, "price": 479, "status": "forSale" }, "handle": { "current": "5-piece-set-antique-white" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [], "meta": { "hasCollegiate": false, "hasTrial": true, "hasWaitList": false, "isCollegiate": false, "isFinalSale": false, "isHidden": false, "isOnSale": true, "isSet": true, "promoDates": null, "promoPrice": null, "warranty": "lifetime" }, "product": { "ranking": 29, "rating": { "rating": 4.89, "rating_count": 97 }, "shopify": { "handle": "enameled-cast-iron-set", "id": 6915102539855, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Web_EnameledCastIron_Set_5p_HarbourBlue_1x1_001.jpg?v=1762199887", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Enameled Cast Iron Set" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 40468340768847, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/EnameledCastIron_Set_5p_AntiqueWhite_001_HIRES-Edit.jpg?v=1757713144", "width": 1500 }, "option1": "5-Piece", "option2": "Antique White", "option3": null, "title": "5-Piece / Antique White" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "induction-compatible" }, "title": "Induction Compatible", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "oven-safe" }, "title": "Oven Safe", "type": "features" }, { "handle": { "current": "pfas-free" }, "title": "Free of PFAS", 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collection](https://madeincookware.com/collections/cast-iron)—made in the USA with a smooth machined cooking surface. ```json { "_key": "e4c1a7218013", "_type": "variant", "data": { "_id": "variant.45288221737039", "badges": [ { "_key": "New", "logoAsset": null, "title": "New" } ], "collegiateAsset": null, "computed": { "discount": 0, "isAvailable": true, "isPrimary": false, "offset": 0, "price": 149, "status": "forSale" }, "handle": { "current": "10-inch" }, "imageBadges": null, "media": [ { "_key": "3ac1c7fff0ef", "description": null, "hotspots": null, "image": { "asset": { "altText": "cast iron pork chop", "metadata": { "dimensions": { "_type": "sanity.imageDimensions", "aspectRatio": 1.499267935578331, "height": 5464, "width": 8192 }, "lqip": 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"rating": null, "shopify": { "handle": "cast-iron-fry-pan", "id": 8668720365647, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_8in_Skillet-Hero.jpg?v=1779486192", "width": 1500 }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet" } }, "shopify": { "handle": null, "id": 45288221737039, "image": { "alt": null, "height": 1500, "src": "https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2131/5111/files/Cast_Iron_10in_Skillet-Hero.jpg?v=1779486203", "width": 1500 }, "option1": "10\"", "option2": null, "option3": null, "title": "10\"" }, "taxonomies": [ { "handle": { "current": "cast-iron" }, "title": "Seasoned Cast Iron", "type": "material" }, { "handle": { "current": "frying-pans" }, "title": "Frying Pans", "type": "product_type" }, { "handle": { "current": "cookware" }, "title": "Cookware", "type": "product_category" }, { "handle": { "current": "united-states" }, "title": "United States", "type": "country_of_origin" }, { "handle": { "current": "10-inch" }, "title": "10\"", "type": "size" } ], "title": null } } ``` ```json { "_key": "7a98b89a3fb8", "_type": "cta", "title": "Shop Enameled Cast Iron Cookware", "url": "/collections/enameled-cast-iron" } ``` ```json { "_key": "58343e4b6ffb", "_type": "cta", "title": "Shop Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware", "url": "/collections/cast-iron" } ``` --- URL: https://madeincookware.com/blogs/enameled-cast-iron-pros-and-cons