🔍 What Is an Infrared Thermometer?
An infrared (IR) thermometer is a non-contact tool that measures surface temperature using infrared radiation. You simply aim, press the trigger, and instantly see a temperature reading.
In cooking, it’s useful for:
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Measuring pan or grill surface heat
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Checking oven temperature
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Monitoring pizza stones, sugar, oil, and candy melts
🔧 How to Use It in Cooking
✅ 1. Preheat Your Surface First
Whether it’s a frying pan, griddle, or pizza stone—heat it up before measuring.
✅ 2. Hold the Thermometer 1–5 Inches Away
Aim directly at the center of the surface, keeping a consistent distance.
✅ 3. Press the Trigger to Read
Most models display temperature instantly. Some offer laser pointers to help target accurately.
✅ 4. Adjust for Emissivity (If Needed)
Some surfaces like shiny aluminum may require manual emissivity settings for more accurate readings.
🧪 Cooking Applications
🍳 Frying Pans & Skillets
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Preheat pan to around 375°F (190°C) for perfect searing
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Use IR thermometer to avoid overheating or underheating
🍕 Pizza Stone or Oven Floor
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Ideal stone temperature: 700°F–900°F (370°C–480°C) for Neapolitan-style pizza
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Aim at center of stone through oven door
🍬 Candy & Sugar Work
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Check sugar heating stages (soft ball, hard crack) on the pan surface
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Non-contact means less cleanup and no burned probe tips
🫙 Oil for Deep Frying
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Safely measure oil surface temperature from a distance
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Best for hot oil that can be dangerous to probe directly
🔒 Safety Tips
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Never point the thermometer at flames or through glass (gives inaccurate readings)
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Always measure surface, not internal food temp
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For meat doneness, use a probe thermometer, not IR
🏆 Best IR Thermometer for Cooking: BSIDE AD650
BSIDE AD650 is a professional infrared thermometer with:
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✅ Wide temperature range (-50°C to 650°C)
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✅ Adjustable emissivity for accurate cooking surface readings
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✅ Built-in laser pointer
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✅ Fast response (0.5s) and large backlit screen
Whether you’re searing steak, baking bread, or melting sugar—BSIDE helps you hit the sweet spot every time.
✅ Conclusion
Infrared thermometers are game-changers for home cooks, bakers, and grill masters. With instant, precise readings, you’ll never guess pan or oven temps again.
Say goodbye to burnt crusts and undercooked pans—cook with confidence.
