What is the minimum internal cooking temperature required for stuffed pasta?

Stuffed pasta must reach a minimum internal cooking temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe for consumption. This temperature is crucial because it is high enough to effectively kill harmful bacteria that may be present within the stuffing or the pasta itself. Foods that are stuffed generally require a higher cooking temperature than their unstuffed counterparts due to the potential for bacteria to be trapped inside the filling, making it more challenging to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.

Food safety guidelines recommend this temperature for poultry, stuffed meats, and other food items, ensuring that the inner filling, which may contain different ingredients, reaches a safe temperature. In contrast, lower temperatures would not guarantee the complete cooking of the filling, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

The other temperature options provided do not meet the necessary safety standards for stuffed pasta, making 165°F (74°C) the appropriate choice for ensuring food safety.