Can You Use Metal Utensils On Enameled Cast Iron?

We all know using metal utensils on regular cast iron is controversial. Some say yes, some say never.

But what about enameled cast iron?

Can you use metal utensils on enameled cast iron? The short answer is no, and I would never suggest that. 

I would avoid using metal utensils of any kind because they can scratch or chip the enamel finish, which, once washed, leads to rusting.

Not only when washed, but if you boil water to make pasta or potatoes, the water gets into the cracks, and rust forms.

Another big no-no is using a knife and cutting anything inside your enameled Dutch oven. 

A knife can and will scratch the enamel finish, and when water gets into those cuts and scratches, it inevitably causes it to rust. 

So, what should we use? 

Below is a list of five utensils made of materials other than metal that are much better and will not scratch or chip your precious enameled cast iron cookware.

But before we dive into those, let’s clarify a couple of things first.

What Is Enameled Cast Iron?

Regular cast iron is made by melting pig iron, scrap steel, and scrap iron in a blazing furnace and then pouring the hot molten iron into molds to create various shapes and sizes. 

Enamel, on the other hand, is a type of glass coating used to coat the surface of the cast iron. It is fused to the cast iron surface through a high-temperature firing process, baking it into the porous cast iron and creating a slick, non-stick surface.

One of the great things about enameled cast iron is that it comes in a wide variety of colors, so you have several options to choose from.

Enamel also makes cleaning easier and prevents iron and food interaction. 

Some people have an issue with regular cast iron, which may leach a small amount of iron into the food. 

This generally is not an issue for most, but it is for some individuals who may suffer from hemochromatosis. According to some, that can be a big problem.

Enameled cast iron is popular for cookware, including Dutch ovens, skillets, and baking dishes, because it combines cast iron’s excellent heat retention and distribution properties with a durable, easy-to-clean surface. 

And one more thing, it is less apt to rust than regular cast iron, as long as it doesn’t get scratched or chipped.

So, this leads us to the utensils to be used or not to be used.

Can You Use Metal Utensils On Enameled Cast Iron Cookware?

Yes, you can use metal utensils on regular cast iron, but I suggest you never use metal on enamel. 

So, instead of metal, here are a few of my suggestions for better results that are less likely to scratch or chip the finish.

Plastic

My least likely suggestion is plastic. Plastic utensils are cheap, and they won’t necessarily damage the finish. However, if they are left unattended while the Dutch oven is hot for very long, the plastic will melt, and that is not a good thing. 

Who wants a melted plastic spoon in their food anyway? Not me!

Silicone

Silicone is a synthetic rubber-like material used for high-heat cooking. It is good to use on the surface of enameled cast iron. It, too, is prone to melting if left unattended for a long time. 

As long as you don’t do that, it is ok to use.

Rubber 

Rubber is another material that can be used. Still, rubber, like plastic and silicone, on a hot cast iron Dutch oven may not give you the results you’re looking for. 

I have a problem with hard plastic and rubber spatulas and spoons because they do not easily scrape, sticking food off the bottom like my favorite utensil.

Yet again, rubber will not harm the finish, so it can be used if you choose to.

Nylon 

Nylon is another product that could be used without damaging the enamel’s surface. Still, if left unattended, it can cause problems.

Wood

Wood is my favorite material for enameled cast iron. Wooden utensils are great for enamel, and they are great for use in regular cast iron, too.

I love using wooden spatulas; as you may already know, wooden spoons are also great for stirring food.

A wooden spatula can scrape the bottom of your Dutch oven without damaging the finish, whereas a metal spatula can’t. 

Also, you can stir your food with a wooden spoon and not damage it like a metal spoon.

Another problem I have with some of these other products is that although they may be made with plastic, silicone, nylon, or rubber tips, the handle may have metal between it and the spatula or spoon’s head. 

Suppose you accidentally drag one of these metal-handled utensils across the top of the Dutch oven or tap the spatula or spoon on the top edge before you realize what you have done. In that case, you might easily chip the enamel. 

Once the enamel is chipped and damaged, it can cause your Dutch oven to rust. For these reasons, you should never take the chance of that happening by using metal utensils on enameled cast iron. 

Final Thoughts

Enameled cast iron is not cheap, so you want to do everything possible to protect the surface and finish so it lasts a long time. 

Regular cast iron can take a little more abuse—actually, it can take a lot more abuse—but not enamel.

Metal spatulas and spoons are ok to use in your regular cast iron if you want to. Some do, some don’t.

But, for enamel, I highly recommend never using metal, but using wooden spoons and spatulas instead. 

This one tip might save you money in the long run. I know it would eliminate a big regret from knowing you damaged your cast iron by using the wrong cooking utensils!

Happy cooking, y’all!