Since cast iron is not as conductive as copper or aluminum it heats up and cools down much more slowly. This characteristic makes it unsuitable for sautéing or for when you need a pan that is highly responsive. However it’s even heating and retention of heat makes it perfect for casseroles, roasts, mac-n-cheese, potato dishes, etc. I have been in love with Le Creuset’s French ovens for years and use them for chili, stews and other dishes that benefit from long, slow cooking.

I had this item on my Amazon Wish List for quite a while. I could have bought it for myself but it’s one of those things that you appreciate more when it is a gift. In France Le Creuset collections are often bequeathed to thankful children from parents that have cooked with them for decades. My oldest son bought this for me from Amazon as a Christmas present. I promised him that he could have it when I was done with it (hopefully a long time from now).

A couple of things to be aware of: at 8″ x 11.75″ this is smaller than the standard 9″x13″ Pyrex dishes that are often used for the recipes that this pan is better suited for. Perhaps it is because Europeans generally serve smaller portion than we do in the US. Another thing to mention is that cast iron tends to be the heaviest cookware available. This roaster can top 13 – 15 lbs. or more when filled with dense food such as potatoes au gratin or a good sized cut of meat.

Yes, this is a relatively expensive product but bear in mind that you never regret having the best (at least not once you have finished paying for it). This roaster is actually a pleasure to clean (and I don’t say that lightly). I will have it for the rest of my life and then it will be passed on to my children along with some very warm memories of meals past.

So far I am v pleased. I oil it well before baking. Sometimes a loaf doesn’t emerge without some help in one area or other, but on the whole it’s pretty good. And it feels nice and robust.

I’m about to order a 2nd pan! Good price for a good product.

The enamel on this baker is thick and hard and while easy to clean, is very resistant to damage and stains. The cast iron means that heat is evenly dispersed. This baker goes from “prep” in the refrigerator (or freezer) straight into the oven and right back out again. The only thing I wish it had is a lid of some sort so that it can be used more effectively as a “take along” pan because it holds heat so well.

I use this baker to make casseroles, broil meat, bake cakes, cook poultry, etc… It can even be used on the stove top if you’re in a pinch due to an already full oven or if your stove top cookware is already in use. It’s one of the most versatile pieces in my kitchen and was well worth the investment as it will last a lifetime.

I feel NO heat through these. I’ve been cooking stuff at up to 500 degrees and I don’t feel a thing. So they do the job well. One mitt might be an issue (somewhat clumsy), but I bought two and they just do a fantastic job. Also bought the highly rated Norpro mitts, but they lack the magnet and aren’t as heat resistant.

These are the best mitts on the market right now, I just wish they were more affordable for a pair.