Meat Temperature Chart: Safe Internal Temperatures and Doneness

Color and cooking time are unreliable guides to whether meat is done; an instant-read thermometer isn't. Below are the safe minimum internal temperatures from the USDA, the doneness temperatures cooks use for steak, and a finder that gives you the number for whatever you're cooking.

Safe internal temperature chart

The USDA's safe minimum internal temperatures. Measure in the thickest part of the food.

Steak doneness temperatures

Steaks and roasts keep cooking after they leave the heat, so take them off about 5°F before the temperature you want.

Rare and medium-rare finish below the USDA's 145°F. Many people eat steak that way; children, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with a weakened immune system should choose medium or above.

Chicken and turkey

All poultry is safe at 165°F (74°C), whether whole, in pieces or ground. Check a whole bird in the thickest part of the thigh, the wing and the breast. Dark meat is safe at 165°F too, though many cooks take thighs and legs to around 175°F because they turn more tender.

Pork

Since 2011 the USDA has put whole cuts of pork at 145°F with a 3-minute rest, the same as beef. Pork cooked this way can stay a little pink in the middle and is safe to eat. Ground pork still needs 160°F.

Why ground meat needs 160°F

Bacteria live on the surface of meat. Searing kills them on a steak, but grinding spreads them through the whole batch, so burgers and meatloaf have to be cooked through to 160°F (71°C).

How to use a meat thermometer

• Push the probe into the thickest part, away from bone, fat and gristle.
• For thin cuts, go in from the side so the tip sits in the middle.
• Check more than one spot on large roasts and whole birds.
• Test it now and then in ice water: it should read 32°F (0°C).

Meat temperature FAQ

What temperature should chicken be cooked to?

165°F (74°C), measured in the thickest part.

What temperature is medium-rare steak?

About 135°F (57°C) after resting; take it off the heat at about 130°F.

Is pink pork safe to eat?

Yes, if whole cuts reach 145°F (63°C) and rest 3 minutes. Ground pork needs 160°F.

What temperature should ground beef be cooked to?

160°F (71°C).

What temperature is fish done?

The USDA says 145°F (63°C), when the flesh turns opaque and flakes with a fork.

Cooking chicken tonight? See how long to cook chicken breast in an air fryer or chicken breast in a cast iron skillet.