A Le Creuset cast iron frying and serving pan, 23 cm is designed for households looking for a pan for searing, braising, baking and serving. Its compact size fits on many hobs and is suitable for smaller households, side dishes or meals for one or two people.
Before buying, however, it is worth taking a close look at the material, weight, temperature specifications and cleaning requirements. Marketing terms such as “suitable for all hob types” or “dishwasher-safe” do not, on their own, tell you whether a pan is right for your cooking habits.
An enamelled cast iron pan may be described as dishwasher-safe in the product information. Nevertheless, Le Creuset models recommend hand-washing with warm water, mild washing-up liquid and a soft sponge. Abrasive cleaners, wire wool and rough scouring pads can damage the enamel surface.
Anyone who regularly cleans the pan in the dishwasher should also bear in mind that cast iron is comparatively heavy and that delicate finishes can be subjected to greater wear through frequent washing.
Cast iron heats up slowly and retains heat for a long time. This supports even cooking, but requires an adapted approach. Heating an empty pan on the highest setting can create unnecessarily high temperature spikes. For the Le Creuset Signature pan, slow preheating over a medium heat or using limited heat output is recommended.
On induction hobs, position the pan so that it matches the cooking zone as closely as possible. With a weight of around 1.93 kg, moving it can put strain on the glass surface. Lifting the pan is generally gentler than sliding it.
The 23 cm diameter refers to the round opening of the pan, not the actual usable surface for large quantities. According to the product data, the Le Creuset models have a capacity of approximately 1.2 litres. This is suitable for smaller dishes, side dishes, sauces, portions of fish or a more compact oven-baked meal. For several large steaks or family-sized portions, a bigger pan may be more practical.
An enamelled cast iron pan has a glass-like protective layer on the inside and outside. The Le Creuset models mentioned do not require pre-seasoning, unlike an uncoated cast iron pan. The surface is designed for contact with food and makes cleaning easier.
Uncoated models such as the small Maxcook pan, on the other hand, require oil care depending on the design and can develop rust if stored in damp conditions. For users who want to keep maintenance to a minimum, enamelled cast iron is often the more suitable choice of material.
According to the product information available, the Le Creuset Signature pan is suitable for gas, electric, ceramic and induction hobs. This makes it a pan for all hob types. It can also be used in the oven and on the barbecue.
The maximum temperature for the specific colour or product variant is important. Sea Salt and some other versions are specified for temperatures of up to 350 °C, while the product data for Azure states 260 °C. Always check the details for the selected item before using it in the oven. The handle will become hot, so oven gloves or heat-resistant handle protection are essential.
Measuring approximately 40.7 × 26.9 × 5 cm including the handle, the pan requires sufficient storage space. The additional helper handle makes it easier to carry safely and helps balance the weight. Two pouring lips support controlled pouring of cooking juices or sauce.
The serving function is practical when you want to take a dish straight from the hob or oven to the table. However, because the pan retains heat for a long time, it must always be placed on a heat-resistant surface.
Why this product suits the profile: The small 10 cm pan is suitable for individual portions, sauces or side dishes and requires less storage space than a large frying pan. According to the product description, it is suitable for several hob types, including induction.
The uncoated design is not mistaken for a maintenance-free non-stick system. Careful oiling or drying is required before first use and after cleaning.
Compact diameter, uncoated cast iron and suitability for gas, electric, ceramic and induction hobs according to the product description.
Why this product suits the profile: This enamelled cast iron serving pan combines a compact size with oven and induction compatibility. According to the product data, it is made in France.
The specifications of 23 cm, 1.93 kg, 1.2 litres and a maximum of 350 °C provide a more concrete basis for making a decision than general claims about versatility.
Enamelled cast iron, two pouring lips, helper handle and suitability for all common hob types, including induction.
Why this product suits the profile: This smaller serving pan is designed for tapas, side dishes and individual portions. According to the product description, it can be used on all hob types, in the oven and on the barbecue.
The smaller diameter is clearly positioned as an advantage for portions and serving. This reduces the risk of planning to use a compact pan for large quantities.
Matt enamelled surface, 0.60-litre capacity and, according to the product data, suitability for the oven, barbecue, induction hob and dishwasher.
We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.
Yes. According to the product information, the 23 cm models mentioned are suitable for induction, gas, electric and ceramic hobs. The key point is that the entire base of the pan sits on the appropriate cooking zone.
Yes, the Le Creuset Signature pan is oven-safe. The permitted maximum temperature may vary depending on the version. Individual variants are specified for 260 °C or 350 °C. You should therefore check the specific product page before use.
The Le Creuset models mentioned are described as dishwasher-safe. Nevertheless, for the gentlest possible care, hand-washing with warm water, mild washing-up liquid and a soft sponge is recommended. The pan should then be dried completely before being stored.