BBQ Meat Thermometer Placement Guide

Probe like a pro. Where to stick the probe for perfect doneness every time.

Category:
BBQ & Grilling
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Description

Use this tool to get the proper probe placement specific to your meat type and size.

Use Cases

  • For those new to grilling/smoking meat and unsure where the thermometer probe should be positioned.

Inputs/Variables Explained

We kept this tool simple as general technique for thermometer positioning is simple. Yes, various cuts of meats could have been included, but in general, meat type, and size, is all that is need for us to provide you with the proper thermometer location. But, please use your own judgement if you are dealing with a cut of meat that cannot be accurately represented.

Output Examples

Here is a sample output for someone cooking a large brisket.

Brisket Thermometer Placement Guide

Target Temperatures

  • Rare: 125°F (52°C)
  • Medium Rare: 135°F (57°C)
  • Medium: 145°F (63°C)
  • Medium Well: 150°F (66°C)
  • Well Done: 160°F (71°C)

Thermometer Placement Guide

  1. Select the Right Thermometer:
    • Use a digital meat thermometer for accurate readings.
  2. Identify the Thickest Part:
    • Locate the thickest part of the brisket, typically in the center.
  3. Insert the Thermometer:
    • Angle: Insert the thermometer probe horizontally into the brisket, ensuring it goes into the thickest section.
    • Depth: Make sure the probe reaches at least 1-2 inches deep but does not touch the bone or the cooking surface.
  4. Wait for the Reading:
    • Allow the thermometer to stabilize for a few seconds for an accurate reading.
  5. Check Multiple Spots:
    • For large briskets, it’s advisable to check multiple spots to ensure even cooking, especially if it’s a large cut.

Cooking Tips

  • Resting Period: Once the brisket reaches your target temperature, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
  • Monitoring: Keep an eye on the temperature throughout the cooking process to avoid overcooking.

Brought to you by TheToolCollective.com

About The Creator

The Tool Collective

Built by The Tool Collective team. As you may know, we are a group of diverse multi-hobby individuals with loads of unique interests. Grilling/Smoking/BBQing is a mainstay in our households. It's also a ritualistic art for a lot of men and cooks out there. It's a hobby with many passionate individuals who build careers and status among their friends and family. Being a grill master is a prized title, and we hope our tools can help those like us buy the perfect products and level up their grill game.

How It Was Made

Made with The Tool Collective's signature tool building model. We carefully choose all necessary factors that influence making this specific decision, and we combine that with a custom, enthusiast written, system prompt that outlines logic and reasoning for the AI engine to follow. This results in a decision making tool that is incredibly intelligent, fast, and reliable. Not generic AI responses, human crafted, expert driven responses.

Tags

Gilling, BBQ, Smokers, Cooking, Baking, Recipes

Date Published

December 7, 2025

Last Updated

December 7, 2025
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Dsiclaimer

The tools and resources provided on this website are AI-powered and for informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable results, the outputs generated by our tools may contain errors or inaccuracies. Users are responsible for verifying any results before making decisions or taking action. By using these tools, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any damages, losses, or consequences arising from the use of our tools or the information provided. Always exercise your own judgment and consult a qualified professional when necessary.