An infrared thermometer (IR thermometer) is a handy tool that measures the surface temperature of objects without making contact. You simply point it at a pan, grill, or piece of food, and within seconds you know how hot the surface is. This makes it incredibly useful for checking hot cookware, frying oil, pizza stones, or even oven hot spots. But here’s the big question many home cooks have: can a digital infrared thermometer for cooking measure the internal temperature of meat and ensure food safety? Let’s explore this in detail.
What Is an Infrared Thermometer?
An infrared thermometer is a non-contact device that measures the surface temperature of an object by detecting the infrared radiation it emits. Unlike traditional thermometers that require physical contact, infrared thermometers allow you to check temperatures from a distance — instantly and safely.
For cooking, this means you can measure the surface temperature of a cast iron skillet, a pizza stone, or even hot oil without sticking anything into it. It’s quick, hygienic, and especially helpful when dealing with extremely hot surfaces.
Can You Use an Infrared Thermometer for Cooking?
Yes, absolutely! Infrared thermometers are perfect for specific cooking tasks, though it’s important to understand their limitations. Many infrared thermometer only measure surface temperature, they are not the best choice for checking the doneness of meat on their own. However, they shine when it comes to checking cookware and ingredients where surface heat matters.
Great Uses in the Kitchen:
- Grilling & Searing: Want to know if your skillet is hot enough for that perfect sear? An infrared thermometer gives you an instant reading.
- Pizza Making: Checking the temperature of a pizza stone ensures it’s ready for crispy crust.
- Candy Making & Baking: Infrared thermometers help monitor the surface of sugar syrups or melted chocolate.
- Oil Frying: Safely measure oil temperature without risking splashes.
But what about when you need to check internal temperatures, like making sure your steak is medium-rare or your chicken is fully cooked? That’s where a dual-function infrared thermometer comes in.
How to Use Infrared Thermometer to measure internal temperature of meat
One of the best tools for home cooks right now is the ThermoPro TP420 2-in-1 Infrared Thermometer. This device combines the convenience of an infrared thermometer with the accuracy of an instant-read meat thermometer.
Why It’s Perfect for Cooking:
- Infrared Function: Instantly check surface temperatures of pans, stones, or oils.
- Probe Function: Insert the probe into meat or baked goods to check internal doneness.
- Versatility: Whether you’re grilling, roasting, frying, or baking, you get the best of both worlds.
- Accuracy: High precision ensures your food turns out just the way you like it.
With ThermoPro TP420 infrared thermometer, you don’t have to guess. You’ll know exactly when your pan is hot enough and when your steak has reached the perfect internal temperature.
Tips to Use an Infrared Thermometer for Cooking
Here’s a simple guide for getting the most out of your infrared thermometer:
1. Know What You’re measuring: Remember, infrared thermometers measure surface temperature. For meats and baked goods, check internal temperatures with a meat thermometer. For convenience, you can use the ThermoPro TP420 to measure both the surface temperature and internal temperature.
2. Keep the Lens Clean: Dirt or grease can interfere with readings. Wipe it occasionally for accuracy.
3. Mind the Distance-to-Spot Ratio: The farther you are from the surface, the larger the area it measures. For accuracy, stay within the recommended distance.
4. Use for Hot Surfaces: Cast iron pans, griddles, ovens, and stones are perfect candidates.
Benefits of Using ThermoPro TP420 Infrared Thermometer in Cooking
- Safety: No need to get too close to hot oil or blazing grills when measures the surface temperature.
- Convenience: Instant readings without waiting.
- Consistency: Helps ensure even cooking and repeatable results.
- Versatility: It can measure both the surface temperature and internal temperature. It works well for grilling, baking, frying, and more.
Final Thoughts
Infrared thermometers are an incredible addition to any kitchen, but their true power comes when combined with a probe thermometer. The ThermoPro TP420 2-in-1 Infrared Thermometer gives you the best of both — the ability to measure surface heat instantly and internal temperatures accurately. Whether you’re searing steak, making homemade pizza, or frying chicken, this tool makes cooking easier, safer, and far more precise.
If you love cooking and want consistent, restaurant-quality results at home, an infrared thermometer like the ThermoPro TP420 is a must-have in your kitchen arsenal.