If You Don't Have A Meat Thermometer, You Should Buy One - Meat N' Bone

If You Don't Have A Meat Thermometer, You Should Buy One

· Updated Posted by Meat N' Bone

For years I cooked without using a meat thermometer. I was guilty of thinking I didn't need one. Perhaps I was just too lazy to get one. Interestingly enough, outside of ribs, I would not really cook or smoke any roasts because "it was too much work."

To be frank, I always guesstimated whether my meat was done, and if I had to, I would cut into it to see. I was actually pretty good at telling when my steaks were medium or medium-rare (which is how I like it) but I also didn't take a lot of risks and never experimented with different cuts.

When it came to spending money on a meat thermometer, I just didn't think I needed one. Recently, however, I invested in a smoker, and then decided I needed a meat thermometer because if I'm going to smoke a packer brisket for 16 hours, it had better be perfect!

It Turns Out, A Meat Thermometer Is Super Useful!

I now use my meat thermometer all the time and not only when I smoke; it really is the best way to know if the steak is exactly how you want it.

Why You Need To Use A Meat Thermometer

I have also discovered how much damage I was doing to my cooking by "cutting into a steak" to see if it was done. Because cutting into meat not only ruins the look of the steak once served but it also affects the flavor!

Cutting into a steak or roast means the juices will flow out, and once they do, the flavor profile will change and the meat will be drier.

Meat thermometers are cheap. You can shell out $100's for a wireless thermometer that connects to your phone and has all kinds of nifty features but you can also spend $9 on a simple probe and get an instant read.

I like the inexpensive thermometers because I tend to lose them.

Ideal Cooking Temperatures For Meat

  • Beef: 145 degrees (medium) Fahrenheit
  • Pork: 145 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Poultry (Chicken & Turkey): 165 degrees Fahrenheit

Conclusion? Spend a few dollars and invest in a meat thermometer. Your cooking will improve. It can be a cheap and simple thermometer or a more fancy wireless thermometer.

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About If You Don't Have A Meat Thermometer, You Should Buy One

A meat thermometer is one of the best and cheapest investments you can make to level up your grilling and cooking game. Here's why you need one.

Questions

Why should I use a meat thermometer instead of cutting into my steak?

Cutting into meat to check doneness releases juices, dries out the steak, and diminishes flavor. A meat thermometer gives you an accurate reading without compromising the eating experience or the appearance of your meat.

Are meat thermometers expensive?

Not at all. Basic instant-read probes can cost as little as $9, while more advanced wireless models with smartphone connectivity are available for those who want extra features.

What are the recommended safe internal temperatures for common meats?

Beef and pork should reach 145°F (medium), while poultry such as chicken and turkey should reach 165°F for food safety.

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Will using a meat thermometer help me cook better meals?

Yes. Using a thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking, resulting in juicier, more flavorful, and perfectly cooked meats every time. It allows you to cook with confidence and experiment with different cuts.

Where can I buy a meat thermometer?

Meat N' Bone offers both simple and advanced meat thermometers in their online store at https://meatnbone.com/collections/meat-thermometers-and-probes, including simple instant-read thermometers and wireless models.

What is the best way to know if a steak is cooked exactly how I want it?

A meat thermometer is the best way to know if your steak is cooked exactly to your preference. It provides an accurate internal temperature reading without damaging the meat or affecting its flavor.

Can I use a meat thermometer for smoking and slow cooking?

Yes. A meat thermometer is especially useful for longer cooks like smoking a brisket for 16 hours, ensuring the meat reaches the proper temperature for food safety and optimal tenderness.

What happens when you cut into meat to check if it's done?

Cutting into meat releases the juices, which changes the flavor profile and makes the meat drier. It also ruins the appearance of the steak once served.