How to Use a Meat Thermometer

What Is a Meat Thermometer?

Meat thermometers are devices made to measure the temperature of meat. Use a meat thermometer with beef, poultry, pork, and lamb — some are even able to tell you your oven or grill temperature. Meat thermometers are necessary for making sure your meat is cooked to your liking, and for ensuring it's cooked to a temperature that's safe for eating.

How to Use a Meat Thermometer

Want to know how to use a meat thermometer? This will depend on what type of thermometer you purchase. There are two common types of meat thermometers: probe and infrared.

Tip!

For both types of meat thermometers, its important to measure the temperature often to avoid over- or under-cooking your meat.

Infrared: Infrared thermometers take temperatures by measuring infrared light to determine how hot or cold something is. Aim the thermometer at your meat and pull the trigger – the temperature will show up on the display panel. Infrared thermometers are great if you can't get close to your food while cooking. They can even measure the temperature of your grill or pizza oven, so you know exactly when to start cooking.

Probe: To use a probe meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the meat – this is where the temperature will be the lowest, as it's furthest from the heat source. The probe must go in at least 1/2 inch, but if your meat is very thick (meatloaf, pot roast, etc.) stick the thermometer in until it is at the true center. These thermometers are great for getting to the center of thick cuts of meat, so you know exactly how your meat is progressing without having to cut it open.

Types of Displays

Digital: Digital meat thermometers tell you the temperature of your meat instantly in an easy-to-read format, so that you'll know when it's done.

Dial: Dial meat thermometers come with a probe and a face like a watch that will tell you the temperature with a hand. These do not require batteries or electricity, so this is a great option for measuring meat temperatures on the go.

Key Features

Instant-Read: Instant-read thermometers will tell you the temperature of your meat instantly. This will allow you to make quick decisions about cooking your meat for longer or not. Having an instant-read thermometer will allow you to take your meat off of the heat at the perfect time.

Programmable: Programmable meat thermometers allow you to set and forget. Simply program the temperature you want your meat to finish at, and your thermometer will let you know when your meat reaches that temperature.

Wireless: Cooking can be hectic — avoid tangled wires getting in your way by choosing a wireless meat thermometer.

Bluetooth: Meat thermometers with Bluetooth allow you to monitor your meats from anywhere. Connect your phone to the meat thermometer and feel free to walk away or complete other cooking tasks. Meat thermometers are a great option if you're busy or like to multitask while cooking.

Now that you understand how to use a meat thermometer and some of the key features,check out our selection to choose the best one for you and your needs.