I made a big pot of bean and ham soup and it stained the edge of the pot a bit. Spaghetti sauce didn't stain it though. I'm still learning that it takes only a little heat to cook with. This pot is different from the old cast iron one I used to just set in the fire and let go. I wish the lid handle was a little more sturdy but it's supposed to take the heat. I'm still learning how to cook with this but I do love it so far. Every Sunday I put it on the stove and then figure out what I'm going to put in it for that day. Good price too. One thing though....I bought Lodge brand thinking it was made in the USA...wrong!