Le Creuset size chart: numbers to quarts

What the number on a Le Creuset pot means

The size number cast into the base of a Le Creuset Dutch oven is a measurement in centimeters, not a capacity. On a round pot it is the diameter. That is why the numbers jump in steps of two (20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30) instead of matching neat quart figures. The same convention is used by Staub and most other French and European makers, so a size 26 from either brand is roughly the same width.

Capacity in quarts depends on both width and height, and makers shape their pots differently. Two pots with the same size number can hold slightly different amounts. Le Creuset's 24 and Staub's 24 are a good example: same diameter, different stated capacity. When a recipe calls for a specific volume, go by the quart figure on the maker's listing, not the number on the base.

Note.The size number is cast or stamped on the underside of the pot. If you buy secondhand, flip the pot and read the base before you pay.

Le Creuset round Dutch oven size chart

The table below lists the round sizes whose capacity we could confirm on the maker's pages, with Staub's matching size alongside for comparison. Inch figures are a straight conversion of the centimeter number, rounded, so treat them as approximate. For the 20 and 22, the two smallest common round sizes, check the maker's product page for the current capacity, because we could not confirm a Le Creuset figure for them.

See the Le Creuset Dutch ovens we recommend →

Which size fits how many people

A simple rule works for most kitchens: plan on about one quart of pot per person, with two quarts as a practical minimum for one. That puts a household of three or four at the 5.5 qt size 26, five or six at the 7.25 qt size 28, and seven or more, or anyone who batch cooks for the freezer, at the 9 qt size 30.

The job matters as much as the head count. A whole 4 to 5 lb chicken needs at least a 5.5 qt round, and a 6.75 qt oval fits the bird more comfortably. For bread made from about 500 g of flour, a 4.5 to 5.5 qt round or a 6.75 qt oval is the usual pick. Our Dutch oven size picker runs these rules for you and shows the matching Le Creuset and Staub size numbers.

• 1 to 2 people, side dishes and small braises: size 22 or 24
• 3 to 4 people, everyday stews, soups and bread: size 26 (5.5 qt)
• 5 to 6 people or a big pot roast: size 28 (7.25 qt)
• 7 or more, stock and batch cooking: size 30 (9 qt)

Round vs oval sizes

Ovals are numbered in centimeters too, but the number describes a different shape, so an oval and a round with the same number do not hold the same amount. Ovals suit long cuts: a whole chicken, a pork shoulder, a leg of lamb or a long bread loaf. Rounds are better for soups, stews, rice and anything you stir, and they sit more evenly on a round burner.

If you cook on a standard home range, an oval wider than your largest burner will heat unevenly at the ends. That matters less for braising in the oven, which is where ovals shine. For exact oval capacities, check the maker's page for the piece you are looking at. For more on choosing between shapes, see what size Dutch oven to buy and our guide to the best Dutch ovens.

Weight and handling by size

Enameled cast iron is heavy, and the weight climbs quickly as the size goes up. A size 26 full of stew is a two-handed lift for most people, and a size 30 full of stock can be hard to move safely from oven to counter. Le Creuset publishes weights on its product pages, so check the maker's page for the exact piece before you order, especially if anyone in your home has trouble lifting. Our Dutch oven weight chart covers what to expect.

If weight is the main concern, consider buying one size down and cooking in two batches, or look at a lighter stainless steel Dutch oven for stocks and soups. Our best stainless steel Dutch ovens guide covers those.

Note.Always use both loop handles and dry oven mitts when you move a full pot. Cast iron holds heat for a long time after it leaves the oven.

Matching Le Creuset sizes to Staub and other brands

Because Staub and Le Creuset both number their pots by diameter in centimeters, the same number means the same width. Capacity differs slightly by shape: in the confirmed figures above, the 26 and 30 match exactly, the 28 is a quarter quart apart, and the 24 is half a quart apart. Lids generally fit pots of the same size number within a brand, but do not count on a Staub lid fitting a Le Creuset pot. For the Staub side in full, see our Staub size chart and Staub vs Le Creuset comparison.

American brands such as Lodge usually sell by quarts and do not use a centimeter size number at all. When you compare across brands, line up the quart figures from each maker's listing and ignore the stamp.

Frequently asked questions

How many quarts is a Le Creuset 26? The maker lists the round size 26 at 5.5 quarts. It is the most common family size and fits a whole chicken, a standard loaf of bread or a stew for four.

How many quarts is a Le Creuset size 24? The round size 24 holds 4.5 quarts on the maker's figures. It suits two to three people and is a common choice for bread.

Does the size number include the handles? No. The number is the pot's diameter in centimeters, and the loop handles add width on top of that. Measure your oven and storage shelf with the handles in mind, and check the maker's page for overall dimensions.

Is a 5.5 quart Dutch oven big enough? For three to four people, yes. If you cook big batches, entertain often or want leftovers for the week, the 7.25 qt size 28 gives you more room. Our guide to large Dutch ovens covers the bigger sizes.