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Butcher paper is the type of paper that butchers use to wrap meat, and many people use it for a variety of purposes. If you have access to butcher paper, you might be curious if you can use it in the oven.
The short answer to this question is that you can definitely use butcher paper in the oven. This works very much like regular parchment paper, but for certain things parchment paper might work better.
That being said, butcher paper is very useful and many people use it to wrap certain meat dishes while they are being cooked in the oven. Some people even use butcher paper to smoke meat, and it can be very handy overall.
Read on for more information about butcher paper so you can decide how to use it. You'll read about some of the benefits of using butcher paper, as well as some of the potential weaknesses it has.
Butcher paper is very inexpensive
One of the best reasons you might want to use butcher paper in the kitchen is that it's very inexpensive overall. You can buy butcher paper at a very low price and it will be easy to find it in different stores.
Anyone looking for inexpensive paper with which to wrap various dishes will find pleasure in butcher paper. You don't need to spend exorbitant sums of money to get quality paper and you will have a good experience with it.
There are different types of butcher paper
It should also be noted that there are different types of butcher paper on the market that you can buy. It will actually be important to educate yourself as some types of butcher paper are better for cooking than others.
If you buy an inferior butcher paper, your results may not be as good as you hoped. You can buy quality butcher paper that will work great for you too, but you may not yet know the difference.
One of the best types of butcher paper that people use for cooking is known as pink butcher paper. You can find pink butcher paper that is FDA approved and that will be very good for cooking.
It should be very easy to use this type of butcher paper for various cooking purposes. You can safely use it in the oven and you will love how your food turns out.
You should make sure you use pink butcher paper for cooking as it works better than regular white butcher paper. This type of paper is made from wood pulp and is FDA approved, meaning it is food grade paper that you can be proud to use in your cooking.
This unbleached paper withstands high temperatures, which is why it is used in so many dishes. It's not uncommon for people to use pink butcher paper when wrapping fish, and using it to smoke meat is also trending.
Other things to use in place of butcher paper
What if you don't have butcher paper on hand? Well, there are many other things you can use to achieve the same thing you would use butcher paper for. For example, you could just use aluminum foil to wrap your groceries so you can hold things together.
In fact, aluminum foil is far more commonly used in cooking than butcher paper. This is pretty much the standard type of thing people wrap food in when cooking in the oven.
That doesn't mean it's necessarily better or worse than butcher paper, but it's more commonly used. Using pink butcher paper for cooking has been around for quite some time, but it's only recently become a trend that people are talking about.
However, pink butcher paper will be much better than aluminum foil at certain things. For example, those trying to enjoy succulent and juicy meat might want to go for pink butcher paper.
Using pink butcher paper for cooking gives you a more even heat that cooks the meat without causing a moisture lock. This means you can enjoy meat that is juicier overall.
What about steak paper?
Steak paper is something that many people confuse with butcher paper. This is actually quite different from the pink butcher paper we've discussed so far, and it's important to know the difference.
The steak paper you see is most commonly used for sales purposes. This is a thick and heavy type of paper that can resist stains and does an excellent job of protecting meat from exposure to air.
You'll find steak paper available in a variety of different colors, and the color used is usually helpful in identifying the type of meat on display. Steak paper is useful, but it's not something you want to cook or smoke meat with.
This is good paper for storage purposes, but not so good for oven use. What you need for cooking is pink butcher paper or regular parchment paper.
Parchment paper can be used in place of butcher paper
It's not surprising to hear that parchment paper can be used in place of butcher paper. Depending on the type of cooking, it may be better to use parchment paper.
You will find that many people use parchment paper for baking. Those who use pink butcher paper often use it specifically for cooking meat or for smoking meat.
If you're going to bake, it might make more sense to just buy parchment paper. Parchment paper is very affordable and can be found at almost any department store or grocery store.
It's usually beneficial to have some parchment paper in your cupboards. You never know when you might need it, and it can serve many purposes, just like butcher paper.
Final Thoughts
Now that you've learned more about butcher paper, you can use it with much more confidence. You know pink butcher paper is the kind you get when you want to use it for cooking.
You have also been introduced to some alternatives while learning important differences between paper types. In the future, it will be easier for you to decide whether using pink butcher paper makes sense for a particular dish.
No matter what, you'll be able to find some good uses for pink butcher paper. It's oven safe, and you can rest assured that it'll do well for packing a variety of meats.
Cook up something delicious soon with pink butcher paper so you can see how things work. You will be very happy with the results and may wish to use the paper for future dishes.
Ben
I have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. When I'm not building or remodeling X-ray rooms, cardiovascular labs and pharmacies, I'm at home with my wife, two daughters and a dog. Outside of the family, I love grilling and grilling on my Big Green Egg and working on projects around the house.
FAQs
What temperature does butcher paper burn? ›
Butcher paper can burn up on a scorching grill. So, while it is ideal for smoking, butcher paper shouldn't be used for cooking at temperatures higher than 450˚F (232˚C).
Will butcher paper catch on fire? ›Unlike wax paper or freezer paper, butcher paper doesn't catch fire when exposed to heat. So it is safe and specially made for food smoking. Wax paper can ruin the food and also emit toxic fumes when put inside a food smoker.
Can you use butcher paper instead of parchment paper for baking? ›No, parchment paper is not the same as butcher paper. Butcher is more versatile, as it can be used for cooking, wrapping, and crafts. Parchment paper is coated with a food-safe silicone, which gives it a non-stick surface. Both are also different in terms of temperature tolerance.
What's a good substitute for butcher paper? ›Parchment paper is an attractive substitute for butcher paper. It's a healthy option that mimics the pore structure of butcher paper in that it's permeable. If you don't have any butcher paper on hand, you may use a paper bag instead. For sublimation purposes, Kraft paper can be used instead of butcher paper.
Can I put butcher paper in the oven? ›Yes, butcher paper is safe in the oven. Butcher papers are made of caustic soda and wood pulp, making them stronger and heat resistant, but they might burn with direct heat contact. What is this? Other paper types with wax can't withstand high temperatures like inside the oven.
What temperature can paper go in the oven? ›The paper won't release noxious chemicals, and will not burn. Most parchment paper is rated for use at temperatures no higher than 420 to 450 degrees. But we occasionally recommend using this liner for bread and pizza baked as high as 500 degrees.
What temp can pink butcher paper withstand? ›This unbleached, unwaxed, 40lb pink butcher paper is FDA compliant, tested for temperatures up to 300°F and certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
What is the difference between pink and brown butcher paper? ›What is pink butcher paper exactly? To get precise for a moment, pink butcher paper is made from FDA approved, 100% food-grade virgin Southern Pine pulp. The paper is pink in color because it isn't bleached, unlike the more traditional white butcher paper you'll find in most local butchers.
Does meat cook slower in butcher paper? ›The paper will absorb some moisture but doesn't allow nearly as much liquid to evaporate as aluminum foil does. I think the most common argument AGAINST the use of butcher paper is that it can really slow down your cook, especially if you're smoking a brisket and you hit a stall.
Can you bake on pink butcher paper? ›Grocery store bags are not sterile and the inks and fibers can emit toxic fumes when heated. They can also catch on fire. Butcher paper is inexpensive and safe for cooking, but make sure you don't skimp on quality. Oren International only uses certified, FDA-approved pink butcher paper.
Can I substitute foil for butcher paper? ›
You can wrap your meat in either foil or butcher paper. There are advantages to both, whether you're cooking brisket, pork butt, or spare ribs.
Does butcher paper work better than foil? ›Unlike foil, butcher paper is very breathable and therefore lets moisture escape. This prevents the meat from over-steaming. Butcher paper not only prevents over-steaming but also protects the meat from the full impact of the smoker.
Does butcher paper hold heat? ›Pink butcher paper is perfect for slow-smoking meat. It will help retain heat while still preventing a buildup of excess moisture and allowing the meat to breathe.
Does butcher paper get soggy? ›Because paper allows the steam to escape, the exterior of the meat doesn't get soggy. And since it doesn't reflect heat like foil, you don't have to compensate for drastic changes in cooking time.
Should I use parchment paper or butcher paper? ›The type of paper you choose largely depends on your cooking needs. Use butcher paper when storing cuts of meat, grilling, or smoking BBQ. Use parchment paper as a lining on pizza stones and cookie sheets. If you want to retain moisture in your food, use parchment paper for its silicone treatment.
Can you wrap brisket in butcher paper and put it in the oven? ›Wrapping a brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil will speed up the cooking process. Wrapping the brisket will prevent what's called "the stall" — when evaporation from the surface of the brisket halts the cooking process.
What paper can you not put in the oven? ›Waxed paper (or wax paper) actually has wax on it, and it has a non-stick and water resistant surface. However, it is not heat-resistant and should not be used in the oven. NOTE: Baking paper can be used in most applications that call for wax paper.
Does butcher paper speed up cooking? ›Wrapping your meat late helps lock in the heat and moisture as the meat nears the end of the cook. The loose-fitting, loose-fibered paper allows the meat to breathe better than foil does, which can be wrapped too tightly. Wrapping can speed up smoking times, too, so you'll be enjoying your food sooner.
Can you put wax paper in the oven at 400 degrees? ›No, you should not use wax paper in the oven.
Wax paper is moisture-resistant, not heat-resistant. The wax will melt at high temperatures and the paper could catch on fire. Always use parchment paper when it comes to baking.
Toppits® baking paper is made from natural raw materials and so it is not surprising that the baking paper is essentially made of a flammable material.
What happens to paper if you put it in the oven? ›
Heat creates hazardous conditions
The short answer: Putting paper plates in the oven isn't exactly recommended. The high heat inside the oven could even cause the paper plate to catch fire.
Peach paper, also known as pink butcher paper, is a sturdy style of butcher paper that is engineered to offer excellent moisture holdout and strength. True peach paper is also FDA-approved for use with food.
How long does meat stay good in butcher paper? ›"We recommend using fresh, paper-wrapped meats within three to four days of purchase. If meats are vacuum sealed, you want to use or freeze them within two weeks of the 'packed on' date."
What is the difference between white and pink butcher paper? ›Let me shut down another rumor real quick: neither pink nor peach paper contain any kind of peach essence, it's simply that the pink color denotes a natural base whereas white butchers paper is bleached.
What is special about butcher paper? ›What makes butcher paper different from kraft paper involves the manufacturing process, which gives it holdout and makes it certified for food grade use. Butcher paper is engineered to withstand blood and moisture better than standard Kraft paper. Butcher paper is also different from freezer paper.
Can I use parchment paper instead of pink butcher paper? ›Using Parchment Paper
Parchment paper isn't to smoke meat as often as butcher paper is, but you absolutely can use it. The heat resistance of parchment paper makes it suitable for a smoker.
Butcher paper is made from wood pulp like other types of paper products. You will find brown, white, and pink butcher paper. And all these items have differences that are important for how you cook your meal. Regardless of the type of paper you buy, make sure it is food-grade butcher paper.
Is butcher paper better than foil for brisket? ›Alternatively, some use butcher paper to wrap their briskets. This technique is extremely popular with Texas-style barbecue. Butcher paper is more porous than foil, which allows some additional smoke to seep in creating more flavor and allowing moisture to leak out and preserve a crunchier bark.
Can butcher paper go in microwave? ›How about butcher paper? Yes! Both paper types are microwave safe since they have high heat resistance.
What can I use instead of foil to cover meat in oven? ›For oven use, replace foil with parchment paper. For food prep, wax paper is non-stick and can be an alternative to foil.
Is parchment same as butcher? ›
Parchment paper is a great option for crutching meat in your smoker. It allows some of the juices to evaporate, so you still get a nice amount of bark formation. But parchment paper also holds in more heat and moisture than butcher paper.
Is there a difference in color butcher paper? ›Color Choices
The white is uncoated, perfect for a sandwich or burger wrapper. Pink butcher paper or peach paper is famous to barbecue enthusiasts, and the peach-treated butcher is perfect for preserving fresh meat.
Butcher Paper (Texas Crutch)
Unlike aluminum foil, wrapping a brisket in butcher paper allows the smoke to get through while still speeding up the cooking process. Wrapping a brisket in butcher paper takes practice, and it may take you a few times to get it right.
Older textbooks report a range of numbers for the auto-ignition point of paper, from the high 440s to the low 450s, but more recent experiments suggest it's about 30 degrees hotter than that. By comparison, the auto-ignition temperature of gasoline is 536 degrees, and the temperature for charcoal is 660 degrees.
What is the flash point of butcher paper? ›Q: Can pink butcher paper withstand 400 degrees for 2 minutes? A: It should be fine since the flash point for paper is 451 degrees Fahrenheit.
Does butcher paper prevent freezer burn? ›Skip the Plastic Wrap
Wax freezer paper and butcher paper are more effective than conventional plastic wrap. "Wrapping your item tightly in waxed freezer paper can act as a barrier against the harsh air inside the freezer and can also prevent water from evaporating," says Pace.
Parchment Paper is Heat Resistant (But Only Up To A Point)
Parchment paper can withstand temperatures up to 420°F, but it starts to break down at higher temperatures. The parchment paper will begin to darken as it approaches its smoking point, eventually catching fire.
Parchment paper is heat-resistant. In fact, it can stand up to very high heats. That is because it is treated with silicone, which not only makes it non-stick but makes it stand up to very high temperatures.
At what temperature does wood burn? ›What Is the Ignition Temperature of Wood? Wood placed in an oven at 700°F. catches fire almost immediately. At oven temperatures of 450°-500°F., the wood gradually chars and usually ignites after several hours.
Does the color of butcher paper matter? ›Wrapping it up
Pink butcher paper is a handly alternative to foil that reduced the downsides to wrapping meat during or after cooking. Unlike foil, using pink butcher paper lets moisture escape, preventing over steaming, while still protecting the meat from the full impact of the smoker.
What is the difference between pink butcher paper and white butcher paper? ›
see less Most white butcher paper has a wax lining on one side, and if your planning on wrapping cooked meat in it, then you can not put it back on the smoker. With pink paper, it is unlined and when you wrap, say a brisket in it, you can put it back in your smoker to finish cooking. Be sure to stay below 300 degrees.