Last updated: June 10, 2026.
Medium-rare steak carries more risk than steak cooked to the USDA home safety target. For home cooking, FoodSafety.gov lists 145 degrees F plus a 3-minute rest for beef steaks, roasts, and chops. Many medium-rare steaks are served below that, so the decision is a risk choice, not a guarantee of safety.
Temperature And Risk Table
| Beef type | Home safety target | Key note |
|---|---|---|
| Whole beef steak | 145 degrees F plus 3-minute rest | USDA/FoodSafety.gov home guidance |
| Medium-rare steak | Often below 145 degrees F | More risk than the home safety target |
| Ground beef burger | 160 degrees F | Grinding moves bacteria into the center |
| Leftover steak | 165 degrees F when reheated | Reheat leftovers fully hot |
| Higher-risk eaters | Use safer targets | Avoid undercooked meat |
Who Should Avoid Medium-Rare Steak?
Young children, older adults, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems should avoid undercooked meat. If steak is mechanically tenderized, needle-tenderized, injected, rolled, stuffed, or turned into ground beef, treat it with more caution than an intact whole steak.
How To Lower Risk At Home
- Buy steak from a trusted cold source.
- Keep raw beef refrigerated at 40 degrees F or below.
- Use a thermometer in the thickest part.
- Keep raw juices away from ready-to-eat foods.
- Do not use steak color alone as the safety test.
FAQ
What temperature is medium-rare steak?
Many cooking charts describe medium-rare steak below 145 degrees F, but the USDA home safety target for beef steaks is 145 degrees F plus a 3-minute rest.
Is medium-rare safer for steak than for burgers?
Yes, intact steak is different from ground beef, but medium-rare steak still carries more risk than the USDA home safety target. Ground beef should reach 160 degrees F.
Can steak be pink and safe?
Color is not a reliable safety test. Use a thermometer and follow the temperature target that matches the risk level you are willing to accept.
Should pregnant people eat medium-rare steak?
Pregnant people should avoid undercooked meat and use safer cooking targets. When in doubt, choose steak cooked to at least the USDA home safety target.