Le Creuset Toughened Non-Stick 24x5.95cm Shallow Casserole/Braiser with Glass Lid

What this is and what it’s for

The Le Creuset Toughened Non-Stick 24x5.95cm shallow casserole/braiser combines a practical, low-fat cooking approach with a robust non-stick coating. Sized for skilful, versatile cooking, it’s designed to brown, simmer and gently finish delicate foods with minimal oil. The compact 24 cm diameter makes it a sensible option for small households or for cooking side dishes and sauces alongside a main meal.

How it performs on a daily basis

On the claim side, the coating is described as four times tougher than standard non-stick, backed by independent lab testing that examined abrasion from metal utensils. In practice, this suggests better durability for routine kitchen use, though it remains prudent to use wooden, plastic, or silicone utensils and to hand wash to protect the finish. The aluminium core supports uniform heat distribution across the base and walls, which helps reduce hot spots and promotes steady simmering—useful when reducing sauces or cooking delicate items such as fish or eggs.

Induction compatibility and build

The base features a magnetic stainless steel layer, which means it is compatible with induction hobs. The join between the aluminium body and the base is designed to distribute heat evenly, while the robust riveted handles provide a secure grip for safe transfers from hob to table or oven if required.

What’s strong and what may fall short

Among the strongest points is the combination of non-stick performance and an abrasion-tested surface, which is appealing for daily cooking with less oil and easier cleanup. The shallow profile is great for quick sears and light braising, though it’s not meant to replace deeper casseroles for large batches. A potential limitation is the care guidance: the manufacturer recommends hand washing to preserve the coating, which can be less convenient than dishwashing every now and then.

Who this is for

Ideal if you prioritise low-fat cooking, need a compact size for smaller kitchens, or want a versatile pan for sauces and light braises. It suits someone who cooks regular, modest portions and appreciates straightforward cleaning. If you regularly prepare large trays or heavy, long braises, you might prefer a larger or deeper piece.

When it makes sense to buy

Consider this model when you want a dependable, induction-ready, non-stick pan with a commitment to durability and easier cleanup. It’s a practical upgrade for homes that favour modest oil use and quick meals, or for cooks who value even heat distribution for delicate ingredients.

What to check before buying

• Confirm you’re comfortable with the hand-wash care to protect the coating.
• Ensure your hob support matches induction readiness via the base’s magnetic layer.
• Consider the size: 24 cm is compact, so verify it fits your usual portion sizes.
• Remember this is a shallow casserole/braiser: it’s great for searing and gentle braising, but not a deep-volume option.

Practical use example

Sear a fillet of fish in a light oil, then finish with a gentle braise of herbs and stock. The heat distributes evenly, helping to avoid scorching and allowing the sauce to reduce smoothly without sticking.

What this means in context against alternatives

If you want a balance of durability and ease of use in a compact footprint, this dish offers a certain value-for-money proposition for day-to-day meals. It’s a step up from standard non-stick for frequent use, yet not a dedicated professional-grade deep casserole. For larger quantities or heavy-duty braising, a deeper pan might be preferable.

Decision time

Is it worth it?

It makes sense if you prioritise low-fat cooking, easy cleaning, and compatible induction use in a compact pan. If your needs include larger volumes or deeper braising, you may want to assess a larger or deeper alternative.

FAQ

• Q: Can this pan go in the dishwasher? A: Cleaning guidance suggests hand washing to protect the coating.
• Q: Is it suitable for all hob types? A: It is designed for induction thanks to the magnetic base, and should perform well on other hobs as well.
• Q: How durable is the coating in real-world use? A: Independent testing claims stronger abrasion resistance, but using wooden or silicone utensils is still advised to prolong life.