Mason jars are a beautifully simple solution when it comes to storage.
Read on for step-by-step instructions for how to use freeze anything in a mason jars, and how to use mason jars to store just about anything, from freezing soups and stews, to taking leftovers to work, to using mason jars to organize your pantry.
updated: August 2019
Imagine your freezer filled with hearty, nourishing soups and stews ready to be defrosted for a quick lunch on the fly.
Then imagine a fridge filled with pre-prepped grains, veggies, and proteins, as well as a few mason jar salads ready to throw in your bag on the way out the door.
This scenario is easier than you think; and it all starts with the simple mason jar.
Mason jars are a workhorse in the kitchen, and are the perfect simplified storage solution because they can be used in so many different ways.
They’re durable, are plastic-free, inexpensive, and work perfectly in the pantry, fridge and in the freezer.
As a bonus, the tight sealing lids means you can take soups and stews with you on-the-go without worrying about spills or leaks.
Read on for the step-by-step!
How to Store or Freeze Anything in a Mason Jar
1. Select the Right Jar
For best results, use wide mouth mason jars to freeze one to two portions of soup, stews, or leftovers.
These are my favorite mason jars for freezing one to two servings Wide-Mouth 16-oz Mason Jars
Quart sized mason jars are a great size for storing larger amounts of leftovers, and are also a great choice for pantry organization or creating mason jar salads: Wide-Mouth Quart Mason Jar
2. Allow the Soup, Stew, or Main Dish to Cool
Avoid adding steaming hot liquid to the mason jar. Instead, allow the soup or stew to cool slightly.
3. Transfer to the Mason Jar
Fill each mason jar with the soup, stew, or leftovers using a stainless steel ladle and wide mouth funnel.
The funnel prevents a mess and makes the process so much easier; definitely worth the small investment.
Again, a wide-mouth mason jar is your best best when it comes to freezing anything, especially when it comes to soups and stews.
This is my favorite Wide Mouth Funnel for filling mason jars to freeze.
4. Leave Enough Room
Be sure to leave at least a two inch clearance between the top of the jar and whatever you’re filling it with.
Remember, frozen liquids expand, so don’t overfill, or you will end up with a cracked jar.
5. Cool Completely in the Refrigerator
Screw on the lids and refrigerate the filled jars and allow to cool completely to avoid cracking.
6. Add a Label
Don’t forget to label your jars.
Particularly if you plan to store in the freezer, clear labeling will ensure you know what’s what.
Labeling couldn’t be easier: simply write the name of the item along with the date on a small piece of washi masking tape with a permanent marker.
Then affix the tape to the top of the lid and you’re good to go.
When you’ve used the contents of the jar remove the tape and wash the lid.
7. Freeze the Mason Jars
Freeze contents for three to five months.
8. Bonus Tip: Everything in its Place
Store mason jar lids in a wire basket when not in use to keep things organized.
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