Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen when you could be spending time with loved ones or pursuing hobbies? As a busy cook, you know that finding quick and delicious recipes that can be prepared in no time is essential to your sanity. That’s where the magic of the Dutch oven comes in! This versatile cooking vessel can transform any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. And the best part? Many of these recipes require minimal prep time and effort, making them perfect for even the most hectic of schedules.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick instant Dutch oven recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s. From hearty stews and comfort foods to decadent desserts and sweet treats, our roundup has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these easy and delicious recipes will make mealtime a breeze.
Stay tuned for the first 10 recipes in our list of must-try Dutch oven dishes!
Dutch Oven Beef Stew
A hearty and comforting beef stew recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening, cooked to perfection in your Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the beef, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the mixture into the preheated Dutch oven.
5. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Remove the pot from the heat, let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Instant Pot Dutch Oven Bread
Get ready to experience the perfect combination of crusty bread and tender crumb, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot’s Dutch oven mode. This simple recipe yields a delicious loaf with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In the Instant Pot’s Dutch oven, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve yeast.
2. Add flour and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in the Instant Pot’s Dutch oven, cover with aluminum foil.
5. Cook on HIGH pressure for 30 minutes, followed by 10 minutes of natural release.
6. Remove the bread from the pot, let it cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Dutch Oven Chicken and Dumplings
A comforting, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft dumplings for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add carrots and celery; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil.
6. Return chicken to pot. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Prepare dumplings by mixing 2 cups flour and 1/4 cup warm water. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the pot, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Dutch Oven Pasta
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish cooked all in one pot, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni, or bowtie)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the pasta, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the pasta is al dente and the onion is translucent.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Apple Crisp
This classic dessert recipe is a perfect blend of tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and caramelized sweetness. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this Dutch oven apple crisp is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix sliced apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer apple mixture to the preheated Dutch oven.
4. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats and cold butter. Use fingers or a pastry blender to work into crumbly mixture.
5. Top apple mixture with oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Chili Con Carne
This recipe yields a rich, flavorful chili con carne that’s perfect for a family gathering or camping trip. With its easy preparation and long cooking time, this dish is ideal for Dutch oven enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in the preheated pot, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the water and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Dutch Oven No-Knead Artisan Bread
Create a crusty, flavorful artisan bread with minimal effort using your Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F/32°C)
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the bowl, stirring until just combined in a shaggy dough.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the mixture rest at room temperature (around 70°F/21°C) for 12-24 hours. This allows the yeast to activate and the gluten to develop.
4. Preheat your Dutch oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Remove the dough from the bowl, shape into a round or oblong loaf, and place it directly in the preheated Dutch oven.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 30-40 minutes, then remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the bread is golden brown.
7. Remove the bread from the pot and let it cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Pot Roast
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful meal with this classic Dutch oven pot roast recipe. This slow-cooked masterpiece is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in the Dutch oven, then sear the pot roast for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the oven. Cook for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the pot roast is tender.
7. Let the pot roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
Warm up with a classic dessert that’s perfect for any gathering. This Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler is easy to make and requires minimal supervision, making it ideal for camping trips or busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 stick unsalted butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour melted butter over peach mixture; stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit the top of the Dutch oven; place on top of peach mixture.
5. Crimp edges to seal; brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Cover Dutch oven with lid; bake for 30-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dutch Oven Mac and Cheese
Transform your macaroni and cheese into a rich and creamy masterpiece with the help of a Dutch oven. This classic comfort food gets a boost from the even heat distribution of this versatile cookware.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
7. Cook in Dutch oven at medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dutch Oven Pulled Pork
Transform a humble pork shoulder into tender, juicy pulled pork with this easy Dutch oven recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the preheated Dutch oven and add apple cider vinegar and beer (if using).
5. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove the pork from the Dutch oven and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Dutch Oven Campfire Pizza
Experience the thrill of campfire cooking with this delicious Dutch Oven Campfire Pizza recipe. Gather your friends and family around the campsite as you prepare a tasty, gooey pizza in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni or your favorite toppings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F) by placing it on the campfire grill grate.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and place it in the preheated Dutch oven.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese, basil, pepperoni or your favorite toppings.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dutch Oven Beef Bourguignon
Transform your slow cooker into a Dutch oven-inspired pot with this hearty, comforting beef stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven or slow cooker to high (if using a slow cooker).
2. In the pot, brown the beef in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch.
3. Remove the browned beef and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, carrots, and celery. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Dutch Oven Garlic Herb Rice
Elevate your meals with this flavorful and aromatic rice dish, perfectly cooked in a Dutch oven. This recipe combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the comfort of warm, fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil and swirl it around the pot.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the Dutch oven.
7. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dutch Oven Chocolate Lava Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these gooey, indulgent treats that are perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe yields two delicious cakes that will satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60g) semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until well combined.
3. Add flour and salt; whisk until smooth.
4. Melt butter and chocolate in the microwave or on the stovetop; whisk into egg mixture.
5. Pour batter into two 6-inch (15cm) ramekins or small cups.
6. Place Dutch oven lid on top, creating a steamy environment.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from heat; let cool for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dutch Oven Ratatouille
This hearty ratatouille recipe is a classic Provençal dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With its rich flavors and tender vegetables, you’ll love this easy-to-make stew cooked to perfection in your Dutch oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchinis, cooking until they’re tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot over crusty bread or with rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Cornbread
Get ready to enjoy a warm, crumbly, and irresistibly flavorful cornbread, perfect for accompanying your favorite Dutch oven dishes. This recipe yields a moist and tender loaf with a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Honey or brown sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a greased 9-inch (23 cm) Dutch oven.
6. Cook for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Oven Lemon Blueberry Cake
This cake recipe is a perfect combination of bright citrus flavors and sweet blueberries, all cooked to perfection in a Dutch oven. The result is a moist and delicious dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Dutch oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs, lemon juice, and blueberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared Dutch oven and smooth top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Dutch Oven Jambalaya
Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana with this hearty Dutch oven jambalaya recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch oven over medium-high heat for 10 minutes.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add rice, water, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover Dutch oven with lid and transfer to preheated oven. Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Remove from oven and add sliced sausage. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Dutch Oven Mushroom Risotto
Cozy up with this creamy, earthy Dutch Oven Mushroom Risotto recipe, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. Rich flavors and tender Arborio rice come together in this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Dutch Oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook onion and garlic until softened; add mushrooms and cook until tender.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add wine; stir until absorbed. Then, add broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Remove from heat; stir in butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get cooking with ease and speed using your Dutch oven! This versatile pot can be used to prepare a wide range of delicious meals, from hearty stews and soups to sweet treats like cakes and crisps. In this article, we’ll share 20 quick and easy recipes that showcase the Dutch oven’s capabilities. From classic comfort foods like beef stew and chicken and dumplings, to international flavors like jambalaya and ratatouille, there’s something for every taste and dietary need. Whether you’re a busy cook or just looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen!