Two of the most common questions we receive are:
- Can you freeze mason jars?
- Are mason jars freezer safe?
Whether you plan on freezing leftovers or following a “freezer style” recipe, there are some questions that usually come to mind. This post will provide some tips on how to safely and successfully freeze in Mason jars, as well as what lids are recommended, how much content you can put in a jar for freezing, the best way to fill a jar for freezing, and the best way to thaw a jar and it’s contents!
What Type of Jars Can I Freeze in?
It is important to only freeze in mason jars that do not have shoulders (jars that are straight sided or “tapered”) are the easiest because the contents can expand upward in the jar during freezing, especially if you’re freezing liquids (jams, jelly, soup, broth, etc).
You can use other food grade jars, as long as the expansion of the food isn’t a problem. We often freeze single serving sizes of grilled chicken, beef BBQ, or meatballs in other jars since the straight sides really aren’t a requirement.
Jars with necks (sauce and woozy bottles) are not recommended, as the contents will expand upward into the part of the glass with a smaller diameter causing breakage. If the description of the jar doesn’t mention that it is safe for freezing, double check with your supplier. The chart below indicates Ball jars that are freezer safe.
Which Lids Should I Use for Freezing?
You’ll want to use a lid with a plastisol liner or a foam liner to create a good airtight seal. This is a great time to re-use your already spent flat canning lids or single piece lids because all you need is a good seal to keep flavors in and air out! The single piece lids are nice for jams and products that you will be getting into often. You may also use the plastic lids with a foam liner.
Ball also has a leak proof storage lid for wide mouth and regular mouth canning jars. These lids are not for preserving, but are designed specifically for food storage, and are great for the freezer.
How Much Can I Put in a Jar for Freezing?
Allow enough headspace for the expansion of your product. Some, but not all of the Ball jars have a “FOR FREEZING——FILL HERE” line embossed on the glass. We refer to this as the ‘freeze line’. A general rule of thumb for any jar is to only fill to a little below the collar of the jar, or only to the freeze line if that’s indicated on the jar.
Allow enough headspace for the expansion of your product. Some, but not all of the Ball jars have a “FOR FREEZING——FILL HERE” line embossed on the glass. We refer to this as the ‘freeze line’ pictured above. A general rule of thumb for any jar is to only fill to a little below the collar of the jar, or only to the freeze line if that’s indicated on the jar.
What’s the Best Way to Fill a Jar for Freezing?
Remember most food grade glass exhibits a 90-degree thermal shock differential! Jars should not be subject to an abrupt temperature. Keep this in mind for both when filling your jars to freeze, and thawing your jars filled with frozen contents. For example: When canning, you can’t pour hot contents into a cold (or sometimes even room temperature) jar. For the same reason, you shouldn’t expose your jarred frozen items to sudden heat.
To fill your jars, be sure to start with clean, room-temperature jars (around 70-degrees). Fill jars with product that has cooled to 160-degrees, then let cool to room temperature before placing jars in your freezer.
What’s the Best Way to Thaw a Jar and its Contents?
To safely defrost jars, set them on a dish towel or paper towel on a plate or tray (to hold/absorb the melting condensate) and allow thawing in the refrigerator overnight, or on your counter if you are able to monitor them. If you need to speed up the process, you may set them in a few inches of lukewarm water. Do NOT try to microwave a frozen jar.
Shop Freezer Safe Products at Fillmore Container
Check out our freezer safe jars, and lids. Our straight-sided line of jars can also be used to freeze smaller portions like pesto or other more concentrated items that you don’t need a lot of.
More Freezing Tips
For more details about freezing foods safely, read these posts:
