How do I use this calculator?
The basic portion of this calculator allows you to calculate the cooking time based on the weight of the food.
Calculator Operations:
- Enter the weight of the food in pounds to calculate the cooking time.
- The cooking time will be automatically calculated as 15 minutes per pound.
To use another rate, such as 20 or 30 minutes per pound, change the Minutes per pound field.
Use the calculate button when all known values have been entered and use the reset button when you want to clear the values from the calculator.
Calculate cooking time at 15 minutes per pound from the food’s weight in lb, kg or oz, or use 20 or 30 min/lb, and get the total in hours and minutes.
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Cooking Time Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the cooking time.
Variables:
- CT is the cooking time (minutes)
- W is the weight of the meat (pounds)
To calculate the cooking time, multiply the weight of the meat by 15 minutes per pound.
What is the 15 Minutes Per Pound Rule?
This calculator applies a fixed planning factor of 15 minutes per pound. It does not establish a suitable oven temperature or a universal recipe for turkey, ham, roast beef or other food. Actual time depends on the food, cut, thickness, starting temperature, cooking method and equipment. Minutes per pound cannot confirm safe doneness: use a food thermometer and follow the guidance for your food.
USDA minimum internal temperatures include 165°F (74°C) for poultry, 160°F (71°C) for ground beef, pork, veal or lamb, and 145°F (63°C) followed by at least 3 minutes of rest for whole beef, pork, veal or lamb steaks, chops and roasts. Ham requirements depend on whether it is uncooked, ready-to-eat, reheated or leftover; follow USDA ham guidance. See also food thermometer guidance.
How to Calculate Cooking Time?
The following steps outline how to calculate the cooking time using the 15 minutes per pound rule.
- First, determine the weight of the meat (W) in pounds.
- Next, use the formula CT = W * 15 to calculate the cooking time (CT) in minutes.
- Finally, use the calculator above to verify your result by entering the weight of the meat.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Weight of the meat (W) = 5 pounds
Using the formula CT = W * 15, the cooking time (CT) would be 5 * 15 = 75 minutes.
