Le Creuset‘s colorful enameled cast iron skillets are treasured kitchen staples in homes around the world. But with so many sizes to choose from, how do you pick the perfect skillet for your cooking needs? In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll walk you through exactly how Le Creuset skillets are measured, from diameter to capacity to depth.
You‘ll also learn expert tips for selecting the right size based on your household, seasoning techniques, and ways to care for your enamel cookware. Let‘s discover the world of Le Creuset measurements together!
A Brief History of Le Creuset as a Brand
Before we dive into skillet sizes, it helps to understand the legacy of Le Creuset. Founded in 1925 in northern France, Le Creuset pioneered the use of enameled cast iron cookware. Unlike bare cast iron, the vitreous enamel coating meant their cookware could safely be used with acidic ingredients like wine or tomatoes.
Today, from their flagship foundry in Fresnoy-le-Grand, Le Creuset produces over 7 million pieces annually and distributes to over 60 countries. Their iconic skillets feature premium workmanship and consistently receive top ratings from publications like Cook‘s Illustrated.
Now let‘s explore exactly how skillets bearing this famous French name are sized.
Le Creuset Skillets are Sized by Diameter
The most important measurement of any Le Creuset skillet is the diameter, corresponding to the width of the cooking surface. Diameter is always measured from the inside top edge to the opposite inside top edge at the widest point.
You‘ll see diameter labeled in both inches and centimeters. Here are some of the most common sizes:
- 7 3/4" (20cm)
- 9" (22cm)
- 10 1/4" (26cm)
- 11 3/4" (30cm)
- 13" (34cm)
Larger diameters naturally allow you to cook more food at once. As of 2022, the largest single skillet diameter Le Creuset produces is 13 inches.
Why Diameter Matters More than Depth
While depth is also useful to note, diameter has the greatest impact on cooking. Two skillets may have a 2 inch depth, but one with a 12 inch diameter has much more cooking surface than one with a 9 inch diameter.
Diameter also ties directly to capacity, or the volume the skillet can hold. Let‘s look more closely at the relationship between diameter and capacity next.
Diameter Calculates Capacity
Thanks to the simple formula πr^2 for finding the area of a circle, we can determine the capacity of a Le Creuset skillet based on its diameter.
Here is an overview of common diameters and their corresponding capacities:
| Diameter | Capacity |
|---|---|
| 7 3/4" (20cm) | 0.75 quarts |
| 9" (22cm) | 1.25 quarts |
| 10 1/4" (26cm) | 2 quarts |
| 11 3/4" (30cm) | 3 quarts |
| 13" (34cm) | 4 quarts |
As you can see, the capacity roughly doubles for every 2-3 extra inches of diameter, since the surface area increases exponentially.
So if you‘re cooking for 1-2 people, a 9" skillet with a 1.25 quart capacity is plenty. But for a family, you may want a 11 3/4" skillet with a larger 3 quart capacity. Choose wisely based on your typical serving size.
Oval and Grill Skillets Have Two Size Measurements
While round skillets only need one diameter measurement, Le Creuset also makes oval and rectangular grilling skillets which require both a length and a width.
For example, the oval skillet may be labeled as 11 3/4" x 8 1/2". This tells you the skillet is 11 3/4 inches long and 8 1/2 inches wide.
Similarly, the rectangular grilling skillet is measured by its longer and shorter side. Be sure to check both dimensions to understand the true size.
Understand Skillet Height Based on Design
Earlier we touched on skillet depth. While diameter is most critical for cooking capacity, depth can also impact the types of food the skillet can accommodate.
Many Le Creuset skillets fall into a depth range of 1 3/4" to 2". However, designs like the Signature Deep Skillet aim for deeper sides, with some depths up to 3 1/2".
Extra height is great for braising meats or making dishes like skillet lasagna where you need more vertical room. Just watch your oven or cabinet height to ensure the skillet fits!
How to Identify a Skillet‘s Size
Wondering how to double check the size of a Le Creuset skillet if you don‘t have the packaging? Simply flip it over to look for the markings stamped on the bottom.
You‘ll see both the diameter in inches/centimeters as well as the Le Creuset name printed on the enamel. This makes it easy to confirm the exact measurements before purchasing.
As an example, my 10 1/4" skillet has the markings "10 1/4" 26cm" and "Le Creuset France" stamped on the bottom. Easy as pie!
Picking the Right Skillet Size for Your Home
Now that we‘ve demystified measurements, let‘s get practical. How do you determine which Le Creuset skillet diameter is right for your cooking needs?
Here are my top tips for choosing based on your household:
- For 1-2 people – Opt for a 7 3/4", 9", or 10 1/4" skillet. These smaller skillets are perfect for individual meals.
- For a family of 3-4 – Size up to an 11 3/4" skillet, which can handle family-sized batches.
- For 5+ people – Consider the largest 13" skillet (or multiple smaller skillets) to accommodate big gatherings.
- For large roasts/birds – Go big with a 13" skillet which can fit a 5 lb chicken or large beef roast.
- For occasional cooking – If you rarely use skillets, save space with a 7 3/4" version.
See how easy it is to match your skillet to your typical serving size? Keep your cooking habits in mind as you choose.
How Material Impacts Heating Performance
Le Creuset skillets stand out for their enameled cast iron material. But how does cast iron compare to other popular skillet materials like stainless steel or copper?
Cast iron has excellent heat retention and distribution. Once hot, it maintains temperature very evenly so food cooks thoroughly without hot spots. It‘s also durable and compatible with all cooktops.
Stainless steel doesn‘t retain heat as well. Lightweight aluminum skillets conduct heat faster but also cool down quickly. Copper offers amazing conductivity and responsiveness, but requires meticulous maintenance.
For all-around everyday cooking, enameled cast iron like Le Creuset provides the ideal balance of heating performance and convenience.
Season Your New Skillet Before First Use
Want your Le Creuset skillet to have a slick non-stick surface? Be sure to properly season it when new. Seasoning creates a natural patina over time.
Here‘s a simple seasoning process I recommend:
- Wash the new skillet by hand with hot water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly.
- Coat the interior with a thin layer of vegetable oil. Use a paper towel to spread it evenly.
- Place the oiled skillet upside down in a 250°F oven for 1 hour.
- Turn off oven and let skillet cool down completely before removing.
Repeat oiling and heating 2-3 times to build up the patina. The skillet is now ready for action!
Hand Wash and Dry Properly to Care for Enamel
Le Creuset skillets require some special care due to their enamel coating. Here are my top tips for keeping them looking and functioning like new:
- Allow pans to cool before washing to prevent thermal shock. Hand wash only with warm water and mild soap.
- Avoid abrasive scouring pads, metal utensils, and dishwasher detergent which can all damage enamel.
- For stuck-on food, simmer water for 10 minutes to loosen instead of scrubbing aggressively.
- Immediately dry skillets with a towel. Letting air dry can lead to mineral deposits on the enamel.
With proper use and cleaning, your Le Creuset skillet will deliver delicious cooking performance for decades.
Sample Recipes to Make in Your New Skillet
Once you‘ve selected your new favorite skillet, it‘s time to put it to use! Here are some great recipes to try based on skillet size:
In a 9" skillet:
- Shakshuka for 2
- Skillet cornbread
- Frittatas or omelettes
- Pan seared pork chops
In a 11 3/4" skillet:
- Chicken fajitas for 4
- Skillet lasagna
- Whole fried fish
- Pot roasts
- Paella
In a 13" skillet:
- Pancakes or crepes for a crowd
- Sheet pan dinners
- Cornbread or pizza for 6+
- Chicken and potatoes
- Seafood boil
The options are endless for delicious one-skillet meals! Choose recipes that align with your skillet‘s capacity.
Matching Dutch Ovens to Your Cooking Needs
In addition to skillets, Le Creuset makes fantastic Dutch ovens perfect for braising, simmering soups and stews, and baking bread. Here‘s how to pick the right size:
- For 1-3 people – 3 1/2 to 4 quart capacity
- For 4-6 people – 6 to 6 3/4 quart capacity
- For large groups or batch cooking – 7 1/2 quart capacity
Consider how much stew or chili you normally make. Bigger families will use the larger Dutch oven size more. But don‘t overlook the smaller sizes which work beautifully for serving just a few people.
You‘re Ready to Find the Perfect Pan!
You made it to the end of this deep dive into Le Creuset skillet sizing and selection! Let‘s recap the key tips:
- Skillets are measured by diameter first and foremost
- Diameter greatly impacts cooking capacity
- Evaluate your typical serving size needs to pick the right diameter
- Season enameled cast iron properly before use
- Care for the enamel coating with gentle hand washing
- Lighter exterior colors hide stains better
- Mix and match colors for a beautiful kitchen
- Use recipes sized for your skillet‘s capacity
Armed with this knowledge, you can now shop Le Creuset skillets with confidence and find the perfect pan for your cooking habits. Happy sautéing! Let me know if you have any other questions.
