How to Cook Pork with MEATER: From Tenderloin to Pulled Pork

Pork is one of the most versatile meats you can cook, but it's also one of the easiest to get wrong. Overcook a tenderloin and it turns dry; undercook a shoulder and it's chewy. With the right smart thermometer, you can hit the perfect temperature every time. This MEATER pork guide walks you through the best temperatures for different cuts, from quick-cooking tenderloin to low-and-slow pulled pork.

MEATER's wireless smart thermometers take the guesswork out of pork. Whether you're using a MEATER Pro or a MEATER Block, the app guides you with estimated cook times and ambient temperature monitoring. You'll know exactly when to pull your pork off the heat for juicy, safe results.

Why Pork Temperature Matters

Pork has changed. The old advice to cook it to 160°F (71°C) is outdated for modern cuts, which are leaner and more tender. The USDA now recommends a minimum of 145°F (63°C) with a three-minute rest. But different cuts have different ideal doneness temperatures. For example, pork chops and tenderloin are best at 145°F, while shoulder and ribs need higher temps to break down collagen and become fork-tender.

Using a smart thermometer like MEATER ensures you hit these targets precisely. The MEATER app shows you the current temperature in real time, and you can set alerts for your desired doneness. This eliminates the guesswork and prevents overcooking.

• Always rest pork after cooking – the temperature will rise by 5–10°F during rest.
• Use the MEATER app's target temperature feature to get a notification when your pork is ready.

Cooking Pork Tenderloin and Chops

Pork tenderloin and chops are quick-cooking cuts that benefit from a hot grill or pan. For tenderloin, aim for 145°F (63°C) for a slightly pink, juicy center. For chops, the same temperature works, but you can go a bit higher if you prefer well-done. Insert the MEATER probe into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bone and fat.

The MEATER Pro XL is perfect for grilling multiple chops or a whole tenderloin. Its long-range Bluetooth ensures you can monitor from indoors while the meat cooks outside. Plus, the ambient sensor helps you maintain a steady grill temperature.

• Pat the pork dry before seasoning to get a good sear.
• Let the pork rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.

Low-and-Slow: Perfect Pulled Pork

Pulled pork comes from the shoulder, a tough cut that needs low heat and time to become tender. Cook it at 225–250°F (107–121°C) until the internal temperature reaches 195–205°F (91–96°C). At this range, the collagen breaks down and the meat shreds easily. Use the MEATER Pro for long cooks – its battery lasts up to 24 hours, and the app tracks both ambient and meat temperature.

For large cuts like a pork shoulder, the MEATER Pro XL is ideal. It can handle the long cook and gives you accurate readings even at a distance. You'll know exactly when to wrap it in foil or butcher paper to power through the stall.

• Inject or brine the shoulder for extra moisture.
• Wrap in foil when the internal temp hits 165°F to speed up cooking.

Using MEATER Accessories for Better Results

To get the most out of your MEATER, consider the right accessories. The MEATER Hanger keeps your probe clean and organized when not in use. The MEATER BBQ/Oven Mitts protect your hands when handling hot grates or pans. And the MEATER Microfiber Towel is perfect for cleaning your probes after a long cook.

These accessories not only extend the life of your thermometer but also make your cooking experience smoother. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, having the right tools helps you focus on the cook.

• Clean the probe with the microfiber towel after each use – never submerge the probe in water.
• Use the hanger to store the probe safely and keep it handy.

Cooking pork perfectly is easy when you know the right temperatures and use the right tools. With a MEATER smart thermometer, you can achieve juicy, safe pork every time – from tenderloin to pulled pork. Ready to elevate your pork game? Check out the MEATER Pro XL for long cooks or the MEATER Block for multi-probe cooking. Happy grilling!