Sous Vide How to Convert Recipes to Sous Vide: Temperature & Time Guide
Any recipe that cooks in liquid or measures doneness can go sous vide. The conversion is two numbers: the target temperature (doneness) and the time (thickness).
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
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Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
Free shipping on eligible items
Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
1) Find the desired doneness temp (e.g., medium chicken 149°F, medium-rare beef 131°F). 2) Set time from thickness: 1-2 hours for cuts under 2 inches, 3-4 for thicker, 24-72 for tough cuts. 3) Move any browning step (sear, broil, roast) to after the bath. 4) Reduce liquid-based sauces separately on the stove.
FAQ
How do I pick the temperature?
Match it to the doneness you want — our temperature guides list them per food.
How do I pick the time?
Thickness drives time: roughly 1 hour per inch, with tough cuts needing 24+ hours for tenderness.
What moves to the end?
Anything that browns — sear, roast, broil — goes after the bath. Sauces get made on the stove.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.