Le Creuset is famous for its colourful cast iron cookware, especially the iconic Casserole pot. But if you’ve ever looked at the price tag and been put off, then you’re definitely not alone. The classic orange Le Creuset Casserole Pot typically retails for anywhere between £209 and £339, so it’s quite the investment
However, Habitat has stepped in with a lookalike alternative that costs a fraction of the price. Their 5.3-litre Cast Iron Casserole Dish comes in a similar ombré-orange shade and normally sells for £49.99. But right now, it’s discounted to just £29.99. When you compare it to Le Creuset’s £339 version of the same size, you’re looking at a £309 saving.
Of course, Le Creuset has built a reputation for quality and durability (plus the pots come with a lifetime guarantee). But if you’re after something that’s oven safe, has a large capacity and gives a similar aesthetic, the Habitat version is an affordable alternative that’s well worth thinking about.
One reviewer who bought the Habitat pot wrote: “I have had my eye on the much more expensive brand version of this item, and I was super shocked to find the exact same item with a different label for a tenth of the price. Very high quality item. When I used it on the hob there wasn’t a single mark on the bottom.”
Another customer said: “I bought this for batch cooking and it hasn’t disappointed. It’s roomy enough for a full chicken and vegetables with space to spare.”
Both pots can handle oven temperatures up to 260C. Le Creuset’s version additionally has a heat-resistant knob on the lid, and while Habitat’s also has a similar-looking knob, it’s not clear if it has the same protection. That said, both claim to work on a wide range of hobs. Le Creuset specifically lists induction and grill compatibility, while Habitat doesn’t go into much detail.
Then there’s the enamel-coated cast iron, which both pots benefit from, though Le Creuset says its use of lighter enamel makes for easier cleaning. It’s also dishwasher-safe (with care). Habitat doesn’t offer any clear guidance on that front, but shoppers have said it does wash well.
Despite the price gap, several shoppers say the quality is surprisingly comparable. One review on the Habitat website reads: “Love the pans, super stylish and as good as Le Creuset, which don’t last forever, so I wouldn’t be buying again. The Habitat ones look great, cook as I’d expect and wash up well.”
While Habitat doesn’t specify a non-stick coating, one reviewer said: “Best of all, it cleans like a dream. It’s not marketed as non-stick, but that’s exactly what it is.”
Perhaps the main difference is that Le Creuset (like all of its products) is made in France. Some buyers also mentioned that Habitat’s pot is on the heavier side, but that’s often the trade-off with solid enamel cookware. As one shopper said: “It’s a great addition to any kitchen — if you can handle the weight!”
And if the classic orange isn’t your style, no worries. Much like Le Creuset, Habitat has a range of colours to choose from, including navy, green, cream, red, and brown.