30 Delicious And Comforting Dutch Oven Recipes

Decided to treat yourself or a loved one to a new Dutch oven? This heavy-duty cast iron pot is one amazing piece of equipment which is versatile to suit the needs of everyone.

You don’t need to be a chef to master the art of using a Dutch oven! 

But you might find yourself staring at this new kitchen equipment with little to no idea of what to make. Or you are simply in a cooking slump.

That’s where we come in. Below you will find 30 recipes for you to try out using your Dutch oven. Read below and try out new recipes!

1. No Knead Bread 

New to the world of bread baking? This no knead bread recipe will have you baking like a pro. And have your home smelling absolutely delicious. 

In contrast to many bread recipes, it takes only a short amount of time to prepare by hand and doesn’t call for any specialized tools (aside from a Dutch oven).

Even yet, the bread always turns out perfectly, with a magnificent golden brown top and chewy middle, thanks to a lengthy, leisurely rise.

2. Tomato Sauce 

Store bought tomato sauce is much easier and still tasty, this homemade tomato sauce is sure to take your dishes to the next level. 

We recommend making this in late summer to early fall when tomatoes are in season and are at their sweetest. Spoon over your pasta, homemade pizza or even on your crispy bruschetta. 

3. Tortellini Soup 

Want something warm, nutritious and simple to make? This tortellini soup is warming straight to the core and is the perfect recipe to save for this fall. 

With tortellini stuffed with gooey melted cheese and a swirl of kale pesto, you are sure to have everyone falling in love with your cooking.

Taking only 30 minutes to make, this tortellini soup is just the thing for a cold, busy weeknight dinner. 

Store in the refrigerator or the freezer for when you need some food comfort. 

4. Potato Leek Soup 

No idea what to do with those leek stocks at the bottom of the fridge? This potato and leek soup is tasty, vegan and hits all the right spots. 

Garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil to take this soup to a whole new world. Enjoy on a chilly winter’s night or a cooler spring evening, this soup is creamy and soothing. 

Serve with a side of your favorite crusty bread and dig in. 

5. Wild Rice Soup

This dairy-free soup is filled with gorgeous veggies like celery, carrots and mushrooms. The broth is a delightful combination of white beans, cashews, almond milk and white miso paste all blended together. 

Add your preferred wild rice and white beans to decorate the surface of your soup and you have something different, colorful and utterly scrumptious. You’ll want to plate it up as soon as it’s finished. 

6. Vegan Broccoli Soup 

No one can resist a cheesy, broccoli soup, no matter the season. Well we’ve got the perfect creamy, flavorsome broccoli soup with a vegan twist! 

Now of course for our vegan and non-dairy eaters there is no real cheese in this recipe. In fact, that gooey cheesy texture is made up of blended cashews and potatoes.

Add some carrots for that cheesy color and it is mouthwatering. 

Include some fresh dill to enhance that delectable cheesy flavor and there is no way your guests aren’t coming back for another bowl.

7. Black Bean Chili 

There is simply nothing better than coming home to a kitchen filled with the spices of black bean chili. But normally that requires a pile of pots and pans to clean once it has been made.

This Dutch oven recipe makes it easy, simple and a lot less clean up. 

It has a more complex flavor, with earthy undertones from the cumin, coriander, and allspice, savory notes from the fennel and garlic, and a light, smoky heat from the toasted chiles.

You are going to want to serve with some fluffy white rice, your favorite nachos and of course a zesty margarita for the adults. 

8. Butternut Squash Risotto 

Looking to impress a hot date? Or show your friends that you are a whizz in the kitchen. This butternut squash risotto is sure to have everyone singing your praises.

Even though it might take some extra time and effort, it is the perfect dish to enjoy by a cozy fire. 

Whether you cook for a romantic date night or for a large group of friends, this recipe is great for satisfying any crowd. It would even be delicious as a vegan Thanksgiving dish. 

Gather your friends round this Friday night and see the results for yourself. 

9. Pork Stew With Root Vegetables 

Transport yourself back to those winter nights of being huddled around the fire, eating a delicious, rich stew for dinner throughout your childhood with this comforting recipe.

With a rich sauce, stunning blend of spices and a nutritious selection of vegetables, this stew is sure to become a family favorite. 

While this recipe calls for the richness of pork you can easily change it for beef. Although, we highly recommend tasting the sweet notes of the pork before you swap it out.

Let all of your ingredients simmer in the Dutch oven until your meat practically falls off your fork. Delicious. 

10. Chicken Pot Pie 

If you’re looking for a quick meal that will feed a large group, try this Dutch oven chicken pot pie (see also ‘What To Serve With Chicken Pie: 18 Delicious Side Dishes‘)! For a great, home-cooked lunch, use frozen vegetables, rotisserie chicken, and puff pastry as secret recipe short cuts.

Filled with tender chicken and topped with buttery flaky crust, there is perfection in every bite. Serve with creamy, mashed potatoes and enjoy with friends and family. 

You can also keep any leftovers in the fridge. Although we doubt there will be any left to keep!

11. Dutch Oven Lasagne 

Who wants to spend all day in the kitchen layering pasta, sauce and cheese? Well, that doesn’t sound totally horrible but this Dutch oven lasagne recipe will make it fool proof and quicker to make your favorite Italian dish. 

Made in one pot, your Dutch oven and with no boiling noodles, this recipe almost seems too simple. Make sure to use a blend of ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan for the perfect cheesy goodness. 

You might want to get the camera out to capture the all important cheese pull. And don’t forget to serve with a slice of garlic bread!

12. Enchiladas 

Want to bring something exciting to the cookout or on the summer camping trip? These veggie Dutch oven enchiladas are perfect. 

You can add chicken but for quickness we’ve kept them veggie stuffed. You wouldn’t be able to tell the difference!

You’ll be left with crispy enchiladas with a noteworthy cheese pull. Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime and some fresh chilies for a complete range of explosive flavors. 

13. Yankee Pot Roast 

Beef, bacon, potatoes and vegetables. What else do you need for a Sunday pot roast? This classic dish will forever be a favorite and the addition of bacon makes it all the more tasty. 

Throw your ingredients in your Dutch oven and let it all come together for a hearty, smoky meal that can be enjoyed around the table or on the sofa. Just make sure you share it with those you love. 

14. Pulled Pork 

In addition to being sugar- and gluten-free, this Dutch oven pulled pork recipe is also keto-friendly (see also ‘28 Tasty Keto-Friendly Lunch Ideas‘). No one is able to resist the mix of fatty pork, beer, and BBQ sauce.

Make a large quantity of it and serve it at family gatherings.

 It’s also ideal for dinner preparation!

15. Chicken And Dumplings 

As the colder months begin to creep in, we all need some warm comforting recipes in our arsenal. This chicken and dumplings recipe needs to be included (see also ‘28 Super Easy Dumpling Recipes‘). 

Never made dumplings from scratch before? All you need is flour. Baking powder, egg, milk and some seasoning.

Pop your dumplings into your chicken and sauce mixture around 5-7 minutes before serving. They are ready when you can prick them with a toothpick and they no longer feel doughy. 

We love this dish on a cold Sunday evening or even on a weeknight with some frozen dumplings!

16. Chicken And Sausage Gumbo 

Gumbo is a treasured dish in the south and it is no wonder why. This almost stew like concoction is the definition of perfection. With just enough spice to light a fire in your veins. 

This chicken and sausage gumbo challenged the idea of traditional shrimp gumbo Letting those who aren’t exactly big fans of fish enjoy the wonderful flavors that gumbo has to offer. 

Now, if you must this dish is extremely versatile letting you make the swaps you need to enjoy each and every bite. 

17. Italian Orzo Spinach Soup 

Orzo. Is it rice? Is it pasta? All we know is that it tastes amazing in this italian orzo spinach soup (see also ‘33 Super Easy Orzo Recipes‘). You can whip this dish up in less than 30 minutes making it perfect for those busy nights where all you want is to kick your feet up. 

Orzo, a load of veggies all simmering in a rich tomato broth is all it takes to make this stunning dish. You will find that most of the ingredients can be found in your cupboard, long forgotten about.

You can add some shredded chicken or keep it veggie! Store the soup in the refrigerator or freezer once it has cooled and enjoy it throughout the week on cold, rainy evenings. 

18. Mustard Chicken

Traditional creamy chicken recipes can become tiring and boring. Try this zesty mustard chicken recipe all made in your Dutch oven. 

Mouthwatering chicken that is braised so perfectly it just falls of the bone all simmering in a creamy, zesty flavorful mustard sauce. 

Serve with rice or boiled potatoes and don’t forget to dip a slice of crusty bread in the tangy mustard sauce. It is an absolute must! 

19. Balsamic Braised Lamb Shanks 

Looking for a hearty meal to satisfy the family throughout Spring? These balsamic braised lamb shanks are ideal and made in the Dutch oven. 

Slow cooked in a sauce of garlic, balsamic vinegar, red wine and rosemary. This dish is utterly divine. Perfect for a date night or to feed a hungry crowd. 

Place your lamb shanks in the sauce and submerge for a few hours while you go about your day. Serve with potatoes and your favorite veggies for a delicious, hearty meal. 

20. Dutch Oven Pizza 

Who doesn’t love a pizza and having one homemade makes it all the better. You can make a simple pizza dough or use a store bought frozen one. 

This is the perfect time to get the kids involved in the kitchen! Let them help spreading the sauce, the cheese and of course choosing their favorite toppings. 

You can even enjoy this Dutch oven pizza solo. And no you don’t have to change any measurements. Make any swaps you wish from tomato to BBQ base or mozzarella cheese to cheddar, we won’t tell. 

21. Grilled Chorizo And Shrimp Paella 

This recipe for shrimp paella is not only delicious but also nutritious. It has fiber from the rice, lean protein from the chicken sausage, and vitamin C from the sweet red pepper.

This is the perfect dish to take you on a trip to Europe without actually leaving your home! The heartwarming aromas will transport you to the streets of Spain without paying for the flight. 

This dish is excellent for storing in the fridge and heating up in the microwave at work or on those days you simply don’t want to cook. Add a fresh squeeze of lime for an extra pop of flavor. 

22. Curry Shrimp And Rice 

When you need a new take on curry that is quick and delicious, this curry shrimp and rice is the recipe for you. If you prefer to have a little spice to your curry, add in a tablespoon of fresh ground chili paste. 

This recipe is simple, quick and absolutely delicious for the entire family. It’s so simple that getting the rice cooked perfectly is the hardest part. Just remember to wash until the water is clear!

Serve with your favorite sides of naan bread and enjoy. 

23. Dutch Oven Mac And Cheese 

All of the delicious, cheesy goodness of Mac and Cheese without the dreaded clean up. You don’t even need to boil your pasta sheets!

Simply place all of your ingredients into your Dutch oven, follow the cooking instructions and watch as they melt together to create a gorgeous, creamy, cheesy heaven.

Make sure to season with salt and pepper to enhance all of the delicious flavors. 

You can even add a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat. There is also the option to add some bacon pieces for an added crunch and smoky flavor. 

This recipe serves an incredible 10 portions so be sure to share with family and friends!

24. Buffalo Sloppy Joes 

Got a crowd to feed this weekend with no idea what to give them? These buffalo sloppy joes are great when paired with some fries. 

Use lean ground turkey instead of beef for a healthier option but don’t forget the cheese! Add a hefty splash of your favorite hot sauce and a blue cheese dipping sauce to really capture an authentic buffalo flavor. 

Pile your mixture onto some burger buns, add a sprinkle of cheese and serve for everyone to enjoy. Or you can keep the mixture in the pot and let everyone serve themselves. Buffet style!

25. Salsa Chicken 

This simple chicken and rice dish is colorful and full of flavor. With small bites of nectarine your taste buds are met with light yet zesty flavor combinations that they have never experienced before. 

Make this dish when you need a stunning, bright, hearty meal on the table in less than an hour. Or you want something delicious for dinner. The entire family are sure to ask for Salsa chicken time and time again. 

Not to mention the potatoes will keep you full and satisfied all night long. 

26. Classic Spaghetti 

One dish that everyone can agree on to be great is spaghetti. Creamy tomato sauce with thin pasta noodles, it is simply irresistible. But you can find yourself surrounded by dishes upon dishes. 

This one pot spaghetti dish is easily a crowd favorite and helps keep your time in the kitchen to a minimum. 

27. Short Rib Tacos 

These short rib tacos are nothing short of perfection. Rich, tender, tangy and all around tasty, you’ll be cooking these tacos every taco Tuesday.

Serve with some quick homemade pico de gallo, a squeeze of lime and some soothing sour creams for the complete short rib taco experience. 

We recommend warming your tacos before loading them up for a comforting experience that is compared to nothing. 

28. Pot Of S’mores 

Thought that s’more are only for roasting over an open fire as you camp in the woods (see also ‘26 Campfire-Perfect Pie Iron Recipes For You To Try‘)? You would be wrong. With these Dutch oven pot of S’mores you can enjoy any time in the comfort of your own home. 

Sweet, gooey, chocolatey, our mouths are watering already! Just remember to let them cool before serving. Or do the dragon breathing technique if you really can’t wait!

29. Chocolate Dump Cake 

This quick dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Impress your guests with this cherry filled chocolate cake that is ready in less than 40 minutes. 

It doesn’t have to be winter to enjoy a simple but utter;y scrumptious dessert. All you need is your Dutch oven, your favorite pie filling (we chose cherry), butter and some cake mix! 

Make sure to serve with your favorite ice creams for that final crowning touch. 

30. Peach Crumble Dessert 

This peach crumble dessert is perfect for serving big crowds and making sure you’ve got some to keep in the fridge.

This zesty dessert will create a unique dynamics of flavors with every bite. Not to mention that incredible crunch of the crumble. 

Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream and a dusting of cinnamon for a warm, comforting, delicious dessert. 

Final Thoughts 

Whether you need some inspiration for the family meals or are looking to serve for a crowd these Dutch oven recipes are perfect!

Impress your loved ones with your incredible recipes that are flavorsome and outright tasty. We also have a few that only involve one pot, your Dutch oven.

No more will you be surrounded by piles of dishes for washing up, simply throw in your ingredients and let them come together to create perfection. 

From family cookouts to scrumptious desserts there is a Dutch oven recipe for every occasion. 

Try out these recipes in your Dutch oven and watch as your family and friends dig in with satisfied faces.