Why does your oven burn food when the temperature is correct?

There are several possible reasons why your oven might be burning food at the correct temperature. Here are a few things to check:

Incorrect oven temperature: Ensure the oven temperature is accurate by using an oven thermometer. Some ovens may not be calibrated correctly, leading to inaccurate temperature readings.

Uneven heat distribution: Heat can sometimes be unevenly distributed within an oven, causing certain areas to be hotter or cooler than others. This can lead to food burning in some areas while remaining undercooked in others.

Incorrect cooking time: Burning can occur when food is cooked for too long, even at the correct temperature. Ensure you follow the cooking time specified in your recipe or use a food thermometer to check for doneness.

Baking sheet material: Some baking sheets can cause uneven heat distribution, leading to burning. Avoid using dark, non-stick baking sheets as they tend to absorb more heat and can cause food to burn. Opt for light-colored, shiny baking sheets that reflect heat better.

Overcrowded oven: Overcrowding your oven can disrupt proper air circulation, leading to inconsistent cooking and increased chances of burning. Ensure there is enough space between baking sheets and pans to allow for proper air flow.

Wrong cooking rack position: The rack position in your oven can affect the cooking process. Placing the baking sheet in the wrong spot can expose food to excessive heat or insufficient heat, leading to burning or undercooking.

Burnt residue on the oven floor: Burnt food residue or spills on the oven floor can smoke or catch fire during cooking. Clean your oven regularly to remove any burnt residue.

Oven door left open: If the oven door is left partially open, heat can escape, causing inconsistencies in cooking and potentially leading to burning. Ensure the oven door is closed properly during the cooking process.

Malfunctioning oven: If all of the above factors are in order and your oven still burns food, it may be a problem with the oven itself. In such cases, it is best to have the oven inspected by a qualified technician.