Comfort food season is here: Shop slow cookers, Dutch ovens and more fall cooking staples

Comfort food season is here.From hearty soups and slow-cooked roasts to homemade bread and freshly baked pies, the right kitchen tools can make fall cooking easier and more enjoyable.

We rounded up the cooking essentials worth buying now, including a Le Creuset Dutch oven, Crock-Pot slow cooker and other versatile picks for cozy meals at home.Original price: $499.95This Dutch oven arrives ready to use — no seasoning required.(Amazon)A Dutch oven is a fall kitchen essential, and this Le Creuset model is built to last.

The 7.25-quart enameled cast-iron pot distributes and retains heat for soups, chili, roasts and even sourdough bread.The lid helps circulate steam and retain moisture, while compatibility with all cooktops and oven-safe construction up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit add versatility.

This Lodge model is another popular choice.Original price: $499.99The 5-quart bowl can mix enough dough for up to nine dozen cookies or four and a half loaves of bread.(Wayfair)From mixing cookie dough to kneading bread and shredding chicken, the KitchenAid stand mixer handles a wide range of recipes.

The mixer has 10 speeds and a tilt-head design, and comes with a wire whip, dough hook, flat beater, pouring shield and stainless-steel bowl.Additional attachments, including a pasta roller and ice cream maker, are sold separately.Bring this slow cooker to family gatherings and tailgates.

(Amazon)Let this Crock-Pot slow cooker handle dinner while you focus on curating the perfect fall mood.Its 7-quart capacity is ideal for soups, stews and tender roasts, while the locking lid helps prevent spills during transport.READ MORE: Skip the ironing board with this $22 steamer — still 40% off on Amazon after Labor DayMake quick work of hearty fall meals.

(Amazon)When you want slow-cooked flavor without the wait, turn to the Instant Pot pressure cooker.It traps steam inside a sealed lid to build pressure and cook food faster than a traditional slow cooker.

Use it for stews, r...