Freezing soup in mason jars is a great way to store homemade meals while keeping them fresh and flavorful. However, if not done correctly, it can lead to cracked jars, wasted food, and frustration. In this guide, we’ll show you how to freeze soup in mason jars safely, ensuring your soups remain delicious and your jars intact.
Can You Freeze Soup in Mason Jars? Why Freeze Soup in Mason Jars?
Freezing soup is a convenient way to save time and reduce food waste. Here are some key benefits:
- Preserves nutrients and flavors – Keeps your homemade soup fresh for months.
- Reduces food waste – Freeze leftovers instead of throwing them away.
- Perfect for meal prep – Prepare soup in bulk and enjoy it later.
- Eco-friendly storage – Mason jars are reusable and free from harmful plastics.
So you can freeze soup in mason jars, however not all mason jars are suitable for freezing. Using the wrong jar can cause breakage due to temperature changes. Let's explore how to choose the best jar for freezing soup.
Choosing the Right Mason Jar for Freezing Soup
Types of Mason Jars For Freezing Soup
Not all mason jars are designed for freezing. Here’s what to look for:
- Wide-mouth vs. regular-mouth jars: Wide-mouth jars are better because they don’t have “shoulders” that can trap expanding liquid, reducing the risk of breakage.
- Glass vs. plastic mason jars: While glass jars are preferred for their durability and eco-friendliness, freezer-safe plastic mason jars are a good alternative.
Best Mason Jar Sizes for Freezing Soup
Choose the right size depending on your needs:
- Small portions (8 oz – 16 oz): Ideal for single servings.
- Large portions (32 oz – 64 oz): Perfect for family-sized meals but require careful handling to avoid overfilling.
How to Identify Freezer-Safe Mason Jars
To prevent breakage, look for:
- Straight-sided jars – These allow the liquid to expand without cracking the glass.
- Thicker glass jars – More resistant to temperature changes.
- Jars labeled as "freezer-safe" – Brands like Ball and Kerr offer freezer-friendly mason jars.
How to Freeze Soup in Mason Jars: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Soup for Freezing
Before pouring soup into jars, follow these tips:
- Let the soup cool to room temperature – Placing hot soup in the freezer can cause thermal shock, breaking the glass.
- Choose freezer-friendly soups – Broth-based soups freeze well, while creamy soups (with dairy) may separate.
Step 2: Fill the Mason Jars Properly
How you fill the jars matters! Follow these steps:
- Use a canning funnel – This prevents spills and mess.
- Leave headspace – Liquids expand when frozen, so leave at least 1 inch of space at the top.
- Avoid overfilling – Filling jars to the brim can lead to cracks.
Step 3: Seal and Label the Jars
- Use airtight lids – To prevent freezer burn and leaks.
- Label your jars – Write the soup type and freezing date to track freshness.
Step 4: Freeze the Soup Properly
- Place jars upright in the freezer – This ensures even freezing.
- Keep space between jars – Allows proper air circulation to prevent cracking.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes – Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Freezing Soup in Mason Jars
- Using jars with shoulders – These restrict expansion and may cause breakage.
- Freezing hot soup – Always cool soup before freezing to prevent thermal shock.
- Overfilling jars – Leave enough headspace for expansion.
- Using non-freezer-safe jars – Thin glass or jars not designed for freezing can crack.
How to Thaw and Reheat Frozen Soup from Mason Jars
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, follow these safe thawing and reheating methods:
Thawing Methods
- Refrigerator method (Best method) – Place the jar in the fridge overnight.
- Water bath method – Place the jar in a bowl of lukewarm water for faster thawing.
Reheating Instructions
- On the stove: Pour the soup into a pot and heat on low-medium until warmed through.
- In the microwave: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between.
Note: Never microwave a frozen mason jar! The rapid temperature change can cause the glass to shatter.
FAQs About Freezing Soup in Mason Jars
Can you freeze creamy soups in mason jars?
Yes, but dairy-based soups may separate when frozen. Stir well when reheating.
How long does frozen soup last in a mason jar?
Properly stored, soup lasts 3 to 6 months in the freezer.
How do I prevent mason jars from cracking in the freezer?
- Use freezer-safe, straight-sided jars.
- Leave headspace for expansion.
- Cool soup before freezing.
Final Tips for Successfully Freezing Soup in Mason Jars
- Choose freezer-safe mason jars to prevent cracks.
- Label jars with the soup type and date for easy meal planning.
- Allow enough space for liquid expansion to avoid breakage.
- Use a gradual thawing method to prevent glass from breaking.
Freezing soup in mason jars is a simple yet effective way to enjoy homemade meals anytime. By following these steps, you can safely store your soups, reduce food waste, and make meal prep easier.
