The Le Creuset Mini Cocotte 8 oz. and its larger 14 oz. counterpart are both individual serving dishes made from the brand's iconic enameled cast iron, but they serve very different kitchen roles. The 8 oz. size is ideal for single-portion appetizers, desserts, and sides, while the more versatile 14 oz. version has nearly double the capacity, making it suitable for serving small main courses or more substantial sides.
Here’s everything you need to know to pick the right mini cocotte from Le Creuset for your cooking and entertaining style.
Le Creuset Mini Cocotte 8 oz.
The 8 oz. Mini Cocotte is the quintessential individual serving dish, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal. Its small size makes it an excellent choice for portion control and for serving everything from single-scoop desserts to savory baked eggs. Many use it for presenting dips, condiments, and other small bites during dinner parties.
- What it is: A small, enameled cast iron serving pot with a lid, designed for individual portions.
- Key features: 8 oz. (1 cup) capacity, compatible with all stovetops, oven and broiler safe.
- Price: Around $30–$40
- Dimensions: 4" diameter, 2.5" height.
- Materials/Construction: Premium enameled cast iron that provides excellent heat retention and distribution. The enamel finish is durable and resistant to chipping and staining.
- Style: Features the iconic round Le Creuset shape and is available in a wide spectrum of the brand's signature vibrant colors.
- Pros: Ideal size for desserts, appetizers, and small sides. Perfect for portion control. Decorative and makes a great gift. Fits easily into small ovens or toaster ovens.
- Cons: Capacity is too limiting for many recipes, such as individual main dishes. Less versatile than the larger size. Higher cost per ounce.
This size is best for the home cook who loves serving perfectly portioned appetizers and desserts or wants an elegant tableside dish for spreads and sauces.
Shop this product: lecreuset.com/mini-cocotte-8-oz
Le Creuset Mini Cocotte 14 oz.
Offering nearly twice the room of its smaller sibling, the 14 oz. Mini Cocotte bridges the gap between a side dish and a main course. Its generous capacity makes it far more versatile for cooking, allowing you to prepare individual pot pies, French onion soup, or small pasta bakes. It’s the more practical choice for cooks who want one small dish for many different uses.
- What it is: A larger and more versatile enameled cast iron pot with a lid, suitable for substantial single servings or a shared side.
- Key features: 14 oz. (1.75 cup) capacity, compatible with all stovetops, oven and broiler safe.
- Price: Around $40–$50
- Dimensions: 4.5" diameter, 3" height.
- Materials/Construction: Made from the same high-quality enameled cast iron as all Le Creuset cookware, backed by a lifetime warranty.
- Style: Recognizably Le Creuset, this cocotte maintains the same classic look as the 8 oz. version, just on a slightly larger scale.
- Pros: Highly versatile size works for main courses, sides, or shared appetizers. Excellent value with nearly double the capacity for a small price increase. Roomy enough for a wider variety of recipes. Substantial feel without being too large.
- Cons: Can be too large for small appetizers or delicate desserts. Takes up slightly more storage space.
The 14 oz. version is for anyone who values usefulness and flexibility, perfect for making individual main courses or heartier sides that go straight from oven to table.
Shop this product: lecreuset.com/mini-cocotte-14-oz
Le Creuset Mini Cocotte 8 oz. vs. 14 oz. Comparison
Dimensions & Capacity
The biggest distinction is usable space. The 8 oz. cocotte holds exactly one cup and measures 4 inches across. It's truly "mini" and is ideal for things like a single baked egg, a scoop of mac and cheese, or a personal crème brûlée. It helps enforce strict portion control, which can be useful.
The 14 oz. cocotte offers a 75% increase in capacity, holding 1.75 cups with a slightly wider 4.5-inch diameter. This extra space makes a huge difference. It's the right size for a hearty serving of French onion soup with bread and cheese, an individual shepherd's pie, or a warm bean dip to share between two people. For everyday cooking, this added versatility is significant.
Materials & Durability
There is absolutely no difference in quality between the two sizes. Both the 8 oz. and 14 oz. mini cocottes are crafted from Le Creuset's legendary enameled cast iron in France. This material is known for its ability to hold and distribute heat evenly, which means no hot spots and perfectly consistent results.
Both feature a vibrant, non-reactive enamel finish that resists chipping and staining and cleans easily. They also both come with Le Creuset's lifetime warranty, so you can be confident that durability is not a deciding factor here.
Price & Value
The 8 oz. cocotte is the more affordable option, typically priced around $30-$40. The 14 oz. version costs around $10 more, usually falling in the $40-$50 range. While the upfront cost of the 14 oz. model is slightly higher, it offers far better value when you consider the cost per ounce. Given its increased utility for a wide range of recipes, that small price difference delivers a lot more functionality.
Style & Presentation
Both sizes feature the classic, charming design that makes Le Creuset so recognizable. They come in the same stunning collection of colors to match your other cookware. Where they differ is in tabletop presence. The 8 oz. cocotte feels delicate and petite - perfect for a formal tasting menu or a small, intricate dessert.
The 14 oz. cocotte has a more substantial, rustic presence. It looks welcoming and appropriate holding a cozy mini chicken pot pie or a bubbly pasta bake. The style choice depends on whether you prefer a more dainty or a more hearty presentation.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both sizes are wonderful additions to any kitchen, but they're tailored for different purposes.
Choose the 8 oz. Mini Cocotte if:
- You primarily plan to make individual desserts like chocolate lava cakes or custards.
- You want elegant vessels for plating appetizers, sauces, butter, or dips.
- Portion control is a major priority for your cooking.
- You need a smaller dish that can easily fit in a toaster oven for quick jobs.
Choose the 14 oz. Mini Cocotte if:
- You want to prepare and serve individual main courses like mini casseroles or pot pies.
- You need a flexible piece for larger side dishes or shareable appetizers.
- You're looking for the best overall value for your money.
- You prefer heartier single servings for soups, chilis, or oatmeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the 8 oz. and 14 oz. Le Creuset Mini Cocottes?
The primary difference is capacity. The 14 oz. cocotte holds nearly twice as much as the 8 oz. version, making it suitable for individual main courses, while the 8 oz. is strictly limited to appetizers, desserts, and small sides.
Which size is better for French onion soup?
The 14 oz. Mini Cocotte is the clear winner here. It provides enough room for a generous portion of broth, a thick slice of bread, and a hearty topping of melted cheese without overflowing.
Are both sizes oven and stovetop safe?
Yes. Both cocottes are made from enameled cast iron and are safe for use on any type of stovetop (gas, electric, induction), in the oven, and under the broiler.
Can you put Le Creuset Mini Cocottes in the microwave?
No, you should never put any cast iron cookware, including these cocottes, in a microwave. The metal will cause sparks and can severely damage your appliance.
Which size is a better gift?
Either size makes a fantastic gift. The 8 oz. is a classic choice for someone who loves to host parties and serve small bites. The 14 oz. is arguably more useful and might be a better choice for someone you know loves cooking hearty weekday meals.
Are the lids interchangeable between the 8 oz. and 14 oz. sizes?
No, the lids are not interchangeable. The 8 oz. cocotte has a 4-inch diameter, while the 14 oz. cocotte has a 4.5-inch diameter, so each lid only fits its corresponding base.
How many mini cocottes should I buy?
Most people purchase them in sets matching their typical number of dinner guests. A set of four is a very common starting point, but you can buy them individually to build your collection over time.
Will these cocottes stack for storage?
Yes, they can be stacked. To protect the enamel from potential chipping, it's a good practice to place a piece of paper towel or a soft cloth between each cocotte when stacking.
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