The Habitat 5.3L Cast Iron Casserole Dish is priced at £46, making it £254 cheaper than a Le Creuset casserole of the same size, which is currently listed at £300 on Amazon. The cookware has earned a 4.8 out of five-star rating from shoppers, with 97% of buyers recommending it.
Design and versatility
The casserole dish features a cast iron build with an enamel coating on the inside and outside, designed to retain heat and make cleaning easier. It is available in a vibrant orange finish, among other colours, and comes in a variety of sizes.
The dish works across electric, gas, ceramic, induction, solid hotplates and halogen hobs, and can be transferred straight into the oven, where it is safe to use at temperatures of up to 260C. Its vibrant design means it can go from the hob or oven to the dining table.
Shopper reviews
One buyer said: "It’s solid, holds heat well on the stove and oven and I used it for casserole as well as bread making. 10/10"
Another added: "Love this dish it’s so versatile it’s non stick and non toxic evenly heats up and great for slow cooking too! The price is great for its size I’d checked the market and this is very good value for money."
A third called it 'a well made cast iron casserole dish' adding: "Decent cast iron cookware. Bought to replace a well known (expensive) brand product. Pleased with this as a replacement."
Some buyers were less impressed, however, with one three-star review noting: "Just be warned that this pot is very heavy. It does tend to stick on when on the top. Washes really easily though."
Chef's endorsement
One five-star reviewer revealed they had worked as a chef in Michelin-star restaurants before retiring. "I am a highly qualified Chef who has worked in Michelin Star restaurants," they wrote. "I am retired now, but I only buy quality. Price is important, but quality is the main reason I chose this, as well as being able to collect it from the store. It was an excellent decision, and I have mentioned this to a few friends who like to cook."
At 5.3 litres, the dish measures 34.1cm wide, 27.2cm deep and 17.2cm high, including the lid. Elsewhere, Marks and Spencer offers the Cast Iron Large Casserole Dish with a slightly smaller 5.2-litre capacity and a self-basting lid for £42, while the Amazon Basics Cast Iron Casserole Dish with Lid starts at £36.
