Mastering Your Cook: An In-Depth Review of the Mastrad Meat It+ Wireless Cooking Sensor

Imagine hosting a dinner party or a backyard BBQ, perfectly relaxed and engaged with your guests, while your roast, brisket, or chicken cooks to absolute perfection. No more hovering over the oven, no more lifting grill lids, and certainly no more guessing games. This dream becomes a reality with advanced cooking tools like the Mastrad Meat It+ Wireless Cooking Sensor. As a seasoned technician with over a decade of experience in meat thermometers, I’ve seen countless devices, but the Meat It+ truly aims to revolutionize how we approach precision cooking. This comprehensive review will delve into its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if this smart cooking probe is the upgrade your kitchen needs.

The Evolution of Precision: Understanding Wireless Meat Thermometers

For generations, cooking meat to the ideal doneness relied on experience, intuition, and sometimes, a bit of luck. Traditional thermometers provided a snapshot, but truly monitoring internal and and ambient temperatures throughout the cooking process was cumbersome. Enter the wireless meat thermometer, a game-changer that offers unparalleled convenience and accuracy. These devices allow you to remotely track your food’s progress, freeing you from the kitchen and ensuring consistent, restaurant-quality results every time.

A smart wireless thermometer, like the Mastrad Meat It+, goes beyond simple temperature readings. It connects to your smartphone, offering an intelligent cooking assistant that guides you from start to finish. This not only enhances precision but also significantly reduces the stress associated with cooking complex cuts or hosting large gatherings.

Mastrad Meat It+ Wireless Cooking Sensor: Features at a Glance

The Mastrad Meat It+ is a meticulously designed cooking sensor packed with features to simplify and perfect your culinary endeavors.

The core of the system is its fully cordless probe, eliminating tangled wires and allowing for complete freedom of placement in any cooking environment. This robust probe is engineered with dual sensors, continuously monitoring both the internal temperature of your meat and the ambient temperature of your oven, grill, or smoker. Some iterations even feature three internal sensors for hyper-accurate readings, ensuring you hit the thermal center precisely. Its construction boasts impressive durability, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures and even direct flame for brief periods, making it suitable for high-heat searing or grilling.

Mastrad Meat It+ wireless cooking probe with dual sensors inserted into a large cut of meat.

Connectivity is seamless through Bluetooth, linking the probe to the intuitive Meat It+ app on your iOS or Android smartphone. The advertised range can extend up to 150-195 feet or 60 meters, providing ample freedom to mingle or attend to other tasks without losing connection. The system typically includes a docking station that doubles as a charger and a clever extractor tool for safe and easy removal of the hot probe from your cooked food.

The Meat It+ App is where much of the magic happens, transforming raw data into actionable insights:

• Real-time Monitoring: Get instant updates on both internal meat and ambient cooking temperatures directly on your device.
• Estimated Remaining Time: The app intelligently calculates and displays the approximate time until your food reaches its target doneness.
• Preset Programs: Choose from a wide array of predefined cooking settings for various meats, cuts, and desired doneness levels, taking the guesswork out of temperature management.
• Smart Alerts: Receive timely notifications when your food is nearing completion, reaches its target temperature, or if there are any critical issues such as overcooking, burning, or fluctuations in your heat source.
• Multi-Probe Support: For those who love to cook multiple items simultaneously, the app can manage up to four probes at once, ideal for larger meals or diverse menus.
• Cooking Speed Analysis: It even tracks the rate at which your meat is cooking, alerting you if it’s too fast, too slow, or if a flare-up occurs on the grill, allowing you to make real-time adjustments.

This versatility means the Meat It+ can be used across virtually all cooking methods, whether you’re barbecuing, pan-frying, using a plancha, or oven roasting, and is perfect for all types of proteins, from delicate fish and poultry to hearty cuts of meat.

Performance and Accuracy: Putting the Meat It+ to the Test

When evaluating any meat thermometer, performance and accuracy are paramount. The Mastrad Meat It+ generally delivers on its promise of precision, measuring temperatures to the nearest degree. In real-world cooking scenarios, users typically find the temperature readings to be reliable, contributing to consistently well-cooked meals.

The speed of readings is crucial for instant adjustments, and the Meat It+ probe transmits temperature changes almost instantaneously to the connected app. Its robust construction with high heat resistance means it can endure the rigors of grilling and roasting without compromise, even withstanding brief direct flame exposure. This durability ensures a long lifespan, making it a valuable investment for frequent cooks.

However, like any smart device, the user experience heavily relies on the companion app. While many find the Meat It+ app user-friendly with its intuitive interface and helpful presets, some user feedback has occasionally pointed to connectivity challenges or app stability issues on certain devices. When the app performs as intended, it significantly enhances the cooking process, providing clear guidance and timely alerts. When issues arise, they can, of course, be frustrating. Ensuring your app is updated to the latest version and your device’s Bluetooth is optimized can often resolve these minor inconveniences.

Mastrad Meat It+ vs. The Competition: A Comparative Edge

The market for wireless meat thermometers has grown significantly, with notable competitors like Meater leading the pack. The Mastrad Meat It+ often draws comparisons, and for good reason—both offer sophisticated, fully wireless cooking experiences.

One key differentiator often discussed is Bluetooth range. While both rely on Bluetooth, some iterations of the Meat It+ have been noted to offer a respectable range, enabling users to move further from their cooking appliance. Competitors like Meater+ address range limitations with charging stands that double as Bluetooth extenders, a feature the Meat It+ also incorporates with its docking station acting as a relay.

In terms of sensor count, the Meat It+ with its dual internal and ambient sensors, and in some models, triple internal sensors, competes effectively with multi-sensor probes from other brands. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the cooking environment and internal doneness.

The app features are largely comparable across leading brands, with most offering guided cooks, temperature presets, and estimated finish times. The Meat It+ app distinguishes itself with comprehensive alerts that go beyond simple temperature notifications, informing you about cooking speed and potential heat source issues.

Pricing for the Meat It+ generally positions it as a competitive option within the premium wireless thermometer segment, offering a strong feature set for its cost. Ultimately, the choice between the Meat It+ and its rivals often comes down to specific feature preferences, app interface preference, and perceived reliability based on individual reviews.

Getting Started: Using and Maintaining Your Mastrad Meat It+

Integrating the Mastrad Meat It+ into your cooking routine is straightforward, but a few best practices will ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Initial Setup and Pairing:

1. Charge the Probe: Before first use, ensure your Meat It+ probe is fully charged by placing it in its docking station.
2. Download the App: Install the official Meat It+ app from your device’s app store (iOS or Android).
3. Activate Bluetooth: Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone or tablet.
4. Pair the Probe: Open the Meat It+ app, select the option to connect a new probe, and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your device. Firmware updates may be available; ensure these are installed for the best experience.

Proper Insertion for Accurate Readings:

• Always insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bone, fat, or gristle, as these can give inaccurate readings.
• Ensure the probe is inserted far enough so that both the internal meat sensor(s) and the ambient temperature sensor (the part exposed to the cooking environment) are correctly positioned. The probe can be used on thinner cuts of meat, typically at least 0.6 inches (20mm) thick.

App Navigation for Different Cooks:

• Once paired, select your desired type of protein, cut, and preferred doneness level within the app. The app will then provide real-time monitoring, estimated cooking times, and alerts.
• Utilize the custom programs for specific recipes or adjust target temperatures as needed.

Cleaning and Care to Extend Lifespan:

• Cool Down: Always allow the probe to cool slightly after cooking before handling. Use the provided extractor tool to remove it safely.
• Hand Wash Only: Clean the probe thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could damage the sensors or casing.
• Dry Completely: Ensure the probe is completely dry before returning it to its charging station to prevent corrosion.
• Storage: Store the probe and docking station in a cool, dry place.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Connectivity Problems: If the app struggles to connect, ensure Bluetooth is active, the probe is charged, and you are within range. Try restarting both the app and your phone.
• App Crashes: Keep your app updated. If crashes persist, try reinstalling the app or contacting Mastrad support.
• Inaccurate Readings: Double-check probe insertion. Ensure it’s in the thickest part of the meat and not touching bone. Calibrating the probe according to manufacturer instructions can also help.

Elevate Your Culinary Skills with the Meat It+

The Mastrad Meat It+ is more than just a gadget; it’s a tool to transform your cooking and build confidence in the kitchen. By eliminating guesswork, it allows you to consistently achieve perfect doneness, unlocking richer flavors and juicier textures.

Here are a few tips to maximize its potential:

• Understand Carryover Cooking: The app will alert you when your target temperature is reached, but remember that meat continues to cook after being removed from the heat. Account for “carryover” by removing your meat 5-10 degrees below your final desired temperature. The Meat It+ makes this easy by tracking the internal temperature even after removal.
• Master Ideal Temperatures: Use the app’s presets as a guide, but also learn the ideal internal temperatures for your favorite proteins:
  • Beef/Lamb: Rare (125-130°F), Medium-Rare (130-135°F), Medium (135-140°F)
  • Pork: Medium (145°F), Well-Done (155°F)
  • Poultry: (165°F)
  • Fish: (145°F)
• Explore New Techniques: The freedom of a wireless probe encourages experimentation. Use it for long, slow smokes, reverse searing, or even deep-frying, ensuring precise temperature control in any method. Imagine a perfectly smoked brisket or a flawlessly roasted chicken, consistently cooked to your exact preference.

Perfectly cooked, juicy brisket resting, with a Mastrad Meat It+ probe still inserted.

With the Mastrad Meat It+, you gain a reliable cooking partner that guides you through every step, ensuring your culinary creations are always a success.

Conclusion

The Mastrad Meat It+ Wireless Cooking Sensor represents a significant stride in home cooking technology, offering a robust and intelligent solution for achieving perfectly cooked meats every time. Its fully wireless design, dual sensors, high heat resistance, and feature-rich app combine to provide an experience that is both convenient and highly effective. While occasional app quirks might arise, the overall benefit of precise, remote temperature monitoring and guided cooking far outweighs these minor challenges.

For those who frequently grill, roast, or smoke, and demand consistent, restaurant-quality results, the Meat It+ is a worthy investment. It frees you from constant monitoring, allows you to confidently host, and ultimately, helps you unlock your full culinary potential. Are you ready to take the guesswork out of your cooking and elevate every meal to perfection?

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is the Mastrad Meat It+?

The Mastrad Meat It+ is designed for precision, measuring temperatures to the nearest degree. Its dual or triple internal sensors, combined with an ambient sensor, provide comprehensive and reliable readings to help ensure your food is cooked to perfection.

What is the Bluetooth range of the Meat It+?

The Meat It+ typically offers a Bluetooth range of up to 150-195 feet or 60 meters, allowing you to monitor your cooking remotely from a considerable distance while you engage in other activities.

Can the Meat It+ be used in a smoker or deep fryer?

Yes, the Meat It+ is versatile enough for various cooking methods, including grilling, roasting, and smoking. Its high heat resistance also makes it suitable for applications like deep-frying, provided it is properly inserted and the ambient temperature limit is respected.

How do I clean my Mastrad Meat It+ probe?

To clean your Mastrad Meat It+ probe, allow it to cool, then hand wash it with warm, soapy water. Gently scrub the probe to remove any residue, ensuring it is thoroughly rinsed and completely dry before storing it back in its charging station.

What if the Meat It+ app crashes or doesn’t connect?

If you experience app crashes or connection issues with your Mastrad Meat It+, first ensure your app is updated to the latest version and your phone’s Bluetooth is active. Try restarting both the app and your device. If problems persist, reinstalling the app or consulting Mastrad’s support resources can often resolve the issue.