America’s test kitchen best meat thermometer

Today we talk about America’s test kitchen best meat thermometer.

As a home cook passionate about getting it right, I have often struggled with ensuring that my meats are perfectly cooked. According to the USDA, proper cooking temperatures can prevent foodborne illnesses, making it crucial to measure the internal temperature of meat accurately. That’s where a reliable meat thermometer becomes indispensable. In this guide, I’ll explore America’s Test Kitchen’s best meat thermometer picks and share how they can enhance your cooking experience.

In This Article

• America’s Test Kitchen Best Meat Thermometer Picks
• How We Tested the Thermometers
• Benefits of Using a Meat Thermometer
• What to Look for in a Meat Thermometer
• FAQs About Meat Thermometers
• Care and Maintenance of Your Meat Thermometer
• Additional Recommended Thermometers
• Expert Advice from America’s Test Kitchen
• Conclusion

America’s Test Kitchen Best Meat Thermometer Picks

The Best Instant-Read Thermometer

There’s no denying that a high-quality instant-read thermometer can be a game changer in the kitchen. After reviewing various models, I found that America’s Test Kitchen highly recommends the following:

Best Overall: ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE

The ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE is at the top of the list for good reason. With a remarkable accuracy rate of ±0.7°F and a response time of just 1 second, it’s the most reliable instant-read thermometer I’ve ever used. As a bonus, it boasts a temperature range of -58°F to 572°F, making it suitable for everything from roasting to deep frying.

Runner-Up: ThermoWorks Classic Super-Fast Thermapen

For those who want excellent performance without breaking the bank, the ThermoWorks Classic Super-Fast Thermapen delivers. It provides readings in about 3 seconds and has a similar accuracy rate as its more expensive counterpart. If that’s not enough, it’s often available at a price point of around $89, making it an appealing alternative.

Best Value: ThermoPro Meat Thermometer

For those on a budget, I highly recommend the ThermoPro Meat Thermometer, which usually retails for about $20-$30. It features dual probes that can monitor two meats at once, making it invaluable for family gatherings. Despite its lower price, it offers a temperature range of -58°F to 572°F and delivers accurate readings in under 4 seconds.

How We Tested the Thermometers

Criteria for Selecting the Best Meat Thermometers

To determine the best meat thermometers, we used several specific criteria: accuracy, ease of use, speed, and build quality. The ability to deliver readings within a certain time frame (ideally under 3 seconds) significantly impacts performance.

• Speed of Temperature Reading: A good instant-read thermometer should provide results in under 4 seconds.
• Ease of Use: A clear display is essential. Models with backlighting or large numbers made using them easier for me.
• Accuracy: I would only trust thermometers with an accuracy rate of ±2°F or better.
• Build Quality: A durable design means longevity, even with regular use.
• Price vs. Performance: I found that spending a bit more usually yielded better results.

Testing Methodology

In my testing, I cooked a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, and beef, using each thermometer side by side to compare results. I found that the Thermapen models consistently performed better, achieving accurate temperatures faster across all meats.

Benefits of Using a Meat Thermometer

Why You Should Use a Meat Thermometer

Using a meat thermometer can truly enhance your cooking experience. According to research, about 65% of people overcook their meats due to guessing cooking times. With a thermometer, I no longer have to play that guessing game. It allows me to cook confidently and ensures my meats are safe and tender. For example, the USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

How a Meat Thermometer Improves Cooking

With a meat thermometer, I ensure perfect doneness every time. A perfectly cooked medium-rare steak should achieve an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F. This temperature range will maximize flavor and texture while keeping the moisture intact. It’s no surprise that a great meat thermometer has become a staple in my kitchen!

What to Look for in a Meat Thermometer

Key Features to Consider

When choosing the best meat thermometer, I focus on these key features:

• Type: Instant-read or probe thermometers serve different purposes. I find instant-read thermometers more versatile for quick checks.
• Temperature Range: A broad range is beneficial for various cooking methods.
• Display: A backlit display can be a lifesaver in a dim kitchen.
• Response Time: I prefer thermometers that read in under 4 seconds.
• Battery Life: Long-lasting batteries mean less frustration during cooking sessions.

Types of Meat Thermometers

Understanding the different types of meat thermometers can profoundly impact your choices:

• Instant-Read Thermometers: Best for quick temperature checks, they provide readings in seconds.
• Probe Thermometers: Perfect for roasts, these stay in the meat while it cooks, suitable for long cooking times.
• Infrared Thermometers: Great for surface temperatures, ideal for pan-searing or grilling.

FAQs About Meat Thermometers

How Do You Use an Instant-Read Thermometer?

To use an instant-read thermometer, I insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat without touching any bones and wait for a few seconds until the reading stabilizes. Make sure it’s not touching fat, as that can lead to inaccurate readings.

Can You Use a Meat Thermometer for Baking?

Yes! A meat thermometer is excellent for baking, ensuring that items like bread or casseroles reach the right internal temperature. This is often around 190°F to 210°F for breads, depending on the recipe.

Care and Maintenance of Your Meat Thermometer

How to Clean Your Meat Thermometer

Keeping my meat thermometer clean is essential for maintaining its accuracy. I wash the probe with warm, soapy water after each use and dry it thoroughly before storing. This is especially important if I used it on raw meats to avoid cross-contamination.

Storage Tips

I store my meat thermometer in a protective case or on a shelf in a dry area. This prevents unintentional damage and keeps it in good working condition for years to come.

Additional Recommended Thermometers

OXO Good Grips Thermocouple Thermometer

The OXO Good Grips Thermocouple Thermometer is a high-performing option that I recently came to appreciate. With its instant readings and safe design, I find it exceptionally user-friendly, especially for cooking sessions where timing is critical.

Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo Digital Instant Read Thermometer

The Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo stands out because it combines efficiency with versatility and usually costs around $30. With a high-resolution display and fast response time, it has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen.

Expert Advice from America’s Test Kitchen

Why We Trust ThermoWorks Products

America’s Test Kitchen has ranked ThermoWorks highly due to their precision, speed, and exceptional reliability. They are frequently recommended in professional culinary settings, highlighting their importance for serious cooks like myself.

Insider Tips for Accurate Readings

For accurate readings, I place the thermometer’s probe in the thickest part of the meat and avoid touching any bones. This slight adjustment can prevent inaccurate readings that may lead to undercooked or overcooked meat.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on the Best Meat Thermometers

Investing in a top-of-the-line meat thermometer has revolutionized my cooking. Knowing that I can achieve the perfect internal temperature gives me the confidence to try new recipes and impress my guests. America’s Test Kitchen best meat thermometer picks are well worth considering if you want your cooking to shine!

FAQ

What thermometers do chefs use?

Professional chefs commonly use accurate thermometers like ThermoWorks products or CDN Digital Thermometers for their fast readings and reliability in a kitchen environment.

Is ThermoPro the same as Thermapen?

No, ThermoPro is a budget-friendly alternative providing good value, while Thermapen is known for its exceptional speed and precision, typically used by professionals.

How do you use a Goodcook meat thermometer?

To use a Goodcook meat thermometer, insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat and wait for the display to provide a stable temperature reading. Ensure it’s not touching any bone.

Where is the best place to put the meat thermometer?

Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, generally away from bones and fat, to get an accurate internal temperature that guarantees proper cooking.