What internal temperature should I cook beef?
Our go-to source for figuring our What internal temperature to cook your beef is from Beef It’s What’s For Dinner, this page has great information regarding determining doneness. Click here to read more.
In general terms, according to the USDA, when cooking whole cuts of meat, the safe temperature is 145 ºF, with a three-minute rest time. Temperature will continue to rise 5ºF to 15ºF after removing from oven, to reach desired doneness. Allow 15 to 20 minutes standing time. Ground meats should be cooked to 160 ºF and do not require a rest time.
When trying to reach a specific doneness like rare, medium rare, and well done, follow this guide:
- Rare: 135°F
- Medium rare: 145°F
- Medium: 160°F (always cook ground beef to medium)
- Medium Well: 165°F
- Well done: 170°F
