The Goldilocks Dutch Oven Rivals Top Competitors for a Third of the Price — Here’s Our Review

Goldilocks prides itself on its price points and construction. The 6-quart Dutch oven is coated inside and out with chip-resistant enamel, and Goldilocks says it helps prevent rust and keeps food from sticking from the cream-colored interior. The Dutch oven is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and induction cooking ready. This is Goldilocks' only enameled product, and so far, it comes in red or green colors.

Since the Dutch oven feels lighter — but still substantial — I reach for it more often than I thought. It's wide with shorter sides, so you can quickly brown or reduce liquids. Its size makes it a kitchen tool of many talents that can braise, stew, stir fry, deep fry, or even bake bread.  While it only comes in one size, the 6-quart capacity is suitable for various projects. It's not too big or too small, meaning I can use it for almost everything, and I have been using it almost daily. 

The loop handles are over 50% larger than handles on competitors' Dutch ovens, so you can even grab them comfortably with oven mitts. Since I use my Dutch oven at high temperatures, I love the stainless steel knob and how easily my fingers slide underneath when grabbing it. After using this for three months, I haven't noticed any damage, chipping, or marks save some staining from midnight black beans from Rancho Gordo. Aside from that snafu, I didn’t see a difference in how this cooks dishes versus my pricier Dutch ovens.

If a Le Creuset or Staub Dutch oven is outside the budget for yourself or whomever you're gifting this to, $85 is an excellent price for a bright red enameled Dutch oven that is versatile from stovetop to oven but also easy to use. Shipping is also free within the US, and they even pay for return shipping. I also love that the Dutch oven has a lifetime warranty, meaning Goldilocks stands by its products.

I live in a household where other people, including kids and a spouse, help with the dishes. They don’t always do the best job, and I have had to toss — sob — a Le Creuset in the past. What I like about the Goldilocks is that it is a workhouse, but I don't worry about ruining it as much as my fancier Dutch ovens. It still looks gorgeous but is just as durable for a third of the price, making it an excellent buy for a quality, beautiful Dutch oven under $100. After a few months of using it, I still choose it over my Le Creuset and have even swapped them out in the pantry. If you ask me, it’s a definite buy.

Our Expertise

Jennifer Zyman is a Senior Commerce Writer for Food & Wine and a recovering restaurant critic with a culinary school degree and over 15 years of food writing experience. Her work has appeared in Atlanta Magazine, Bon Appetit, Eater Atlanta, The Kitchn, Local Palate, National Geographic, Southern Living, and Thrillist. She wrote this story using our testing insights, research, and culinary expertise.