Meat Thermometers Cook it Right
Take the guesswork out of cooking
A meat thermometer measures the internal temperature of cooked meat to assure that a safe temperature has been reached. If you don't regularly use a meat thermometer, get in to the habit of using one. A meat thermometer can be used for all foods, not just meat.
What Type Should You Buy?
An oven-proof thermometer is inserted prior to roasting and left in for the entire time.
An instant-read thermometer is not oven proof. Use it toward the end of the recommended cooking time. Insert it long enough to get a temperature reading, about 10 to 15 seconds, then remove it.
Make sure the thermometer you buy is designed for meat. There are other types of thermometers, for example, candy thermometers.
Where to Place the Meat Thermometer?
- Ground Beef - Place in the thickest area of ground beef dishes such as meatloaf. The thermometer should be inserted sideways in thin items such as hamburger patties.
- Roasts and Steaks - Insert into the center of the thickest part, away from bone, fat and gristle.
- Casseroles - Insert into the thickest portion.
When using a thermometer, do not touch the cooking pan.
