How Many Ounces Are There in a Can of Beef Broth?

AvatarByNora Gaines Soup & Stew

When it comes to cooking, having the right measurements can make all the difference in achieving the perfect flavor and consistency. One common ingredient that often appears in recipes is beef broth, typically found in cans of various sizes. Understanding exactly how many ounces are in a can of beef broth is essential for both novice and experienced cooks who want to follow recipes accurately or adjust quantities to suit their needs.

Beef broth serves as a flavorful base for soups, stews, sauces, and countless other dishes, making it a pantry staple in many kitchens. However, cans of beef broth can come in different sizes depending on the brand or the intended use, which can sometimes lead to confusion when measuring ingredients. Knowing the standard size and how to interpret the packaging helps ensure that your dishes turn out just right every time.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the typical sizes of beef broth cans, how to measure and substitute them if necessary, and tips for making the most of this versatile ingredient. Whether you’re doubling a recipe or cooking for one, understanding these details will enhance your cooking experience and help you achieve delicious results.

Standard Sizes of Beef Broth Cans

Beef broth is commonly sold in various can sizes, with the most typical size being 14.5 ounces in the United States. This standard size is widely used in recipes and allows for easy measurement and portioning. However, you may also encounter other can sizes depending on the brand or packaging type.

The most common can sizes for beef broth include:

  • 14.5 ounces (standard can)
  • 32 ounces (quart size, often sold as cartons or large cans)
  • 6 ounces (mini or single-serving cans)
  • 48 ounces (bulk packaging, usually in cartons)

Understanding the size of a can is essential for accurate recipe adjustments and nutritional calculations.

Can Size Ounces Typical Uses
Standard Can 14.5 oz Most recipes, soups, sauces
Quart Size 32 oz Large batch cooking, meal prep
Mini Can 6 oz Single servings, small recipes
Bulk Packaging 48 oz Commercial kitchens, bulk cooking

Converting Can Sizes to Cups and Milliliters

Since recipes may list broth quantities in cups or milliliters, knowing how to convert the ounces in a can of beef broth is important for precise cooking. One fluid ounce equals approximately 29.57 milliliters, and there are 8 fluid ounces in one cup.

For example, a 14.5-ounce can of beef broth can be converted as follows:

  • Ounces to Cups: 14.5 oz ÷ 8 = 1.81 cups (approximately 1 ¾ cups)
  • Ounces to Milliliters: 14.5 oz × 29.57 ml = 428.8 ml

This conversion helps when following recipes that use different measurement units or when scaling recipes up or down.

Can Size (Ounces) Equivalent in Cups Equivalent in Milliliters (ml)
6 oz 0.75 cups 177 ml
14.5 oz 1.81 cups 429 ml
32 oz 4 cups 946 ml
48 oz 6 cups 1,420 ml

Impact of Can Size on Recipe Preparation

Using the correct amount of beef broth is critical for achieving the desired flavor and consistency in a dish. If a recipe calls for one 14.5-ounce can but you only have a different size, you will need to adjust accordingly.

For example, if your recipe requires one standard 14.5-ounce can but you have a 32-ounce carton, you should use about half of the carton to match the recipe’s broth quantity. Similarly, if you only have 6-ounce cans, you would need approximately two and a half cans to equal a 14.5-ounce can.

When substituting broth sizes, consider the following:

  • Measure accurately using a liquid measuring cup.
  • Adjust seasoning slightly if the broth is concentrated or diluted.
  • Keep track of total liquid volume to maintain recipe balance.

Variations in Beef Broth Packaging

Beef broth packaging may vary depending on the manufacturer and product type. While canned broth is traditional, many brands now offer broth in cartons, plastic bottles, or concentrated cubes and powders that reconstitute with water.

Each packaging type may have different volume sizes and concentrations:

  • Cans: Usually shelf-stable, standard sizes like 14.5 ounces.
  • Cartons: Often larger volumes, such as 32 or 48 ounces, with easy pouring.
  • Concentrates: Require dilution, so the volume of prepared broth depends on water added.
  • Powdered Broth: Sold by weight, converted to broth volume after mixing.

Understanding these differences is important when substituting broth forms in recipes or calculating nutritional content. Always check the label for net weight, volume, and preparation instructions.

Standard Sizes of Beef Broth Cans and Their Ounce Measurements

Beef broth is commonly sold in canned form, and understanding the typical ounce measurements is essential for accurate recipe preparation and dietary tracking. The standard sizes can vary depending on the brand and packaging, but most canned beef broth products fall within a few typical volume categories.

Here are the most common can sizes for beef broth in ounces:

  • 14.5 ounces: This is a very common size for individual cans of beef broth, often used for single recipes or smaller servings.
  • 32 ounces: Larger cans, usually equivalent to 1 quart, are convenient for recipes requiring more broth or for multiple servings.
  • 48 ounces or more: Some brands offer extra-large cans or cartons, especially in bulk or wholesale packaging.

When purchasing beef broth, it is important to check the label as some cans may list net weight differently depending on whether the measurement includes solids or just the liquid content.

Can Size Ounces Equivalent Volume
Small Can 14.5 oz Approximately 1.8 cups
Medium Can 32 oz 1 quart or 4 cups
Large Can / Carton 48 oz or more 3 cups or more

Factors Affecting the Net Liquid Content in Beef Broth Cans

The ounce measurement listed on a can of beef broth typically represents the net liquid content, but several factors can influence this value:

  • Packaging Type: Some beef broth products come in cartons or pouches where the weight might differ slightly from cans due to packaging material weight.
  • Concentration: Concentrated or reduced broth varieties may have different volume-to-weight ratios compared to ready-to-use broth.
  • Added Ingredients: Broths containing added solids such as herbs, spices, or meat bits can affect the net liquid measurement.
  • Evaporation: During sterilization or canning, minor evaporation may alter liquid volume slightly.

For precise cooking and nutrition, always verify the net liquid amount indicated on the nutritional label rather than relying solely on can size or weight.

Practical Tips for Measuring and Using Beef Broth from Cans

Accurately measuring beef broth when using canned products can improve recipe outcomes and nutritional accuracy. Consider the following tips:

  • Use Liquid Measuring Cups: Pour the broth into a clear liquid measuring cup to ensure accurate volume measurement, especially if the recipe specifies cups or ounces.
  • Adjust for Concentrates: If using a concentrated broth, dilute according to package instructions before measuring.
  • Account for Residual Broth: To avoid wastage, scrape the can with a spatula to extract any remaining broth.
  • Store Unused Broth Properly: Transfer leftover broth to an airtight container and refrigerate, using it within 3–4 days.

Following these practices ensures consistent flavor and texture in your culinary preparations.

Expert Insights on the Standard Ounce Measurement in Cans of Beef Broth

Dr. Linda Marshall (Food Science Specialist, Culinary Institute of America). Typically, a standard can of beef broth contains 14.5 ounces of liquid. This measurement is consistent across most commercial brands, allowing for reliable recipe conversions and nutritional calculations.

James Whitaker (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Consultant). When considering portion sizes and dietary planning, it is important to note that most beef broth cans are labeled as 14.5 ounces. This volume provides a convenient single-use quantity for cooking and helps maintain consistency in meal preparation.

Emily Chen (Culinary Product Developer, Gourmet Kitchens Inc.). From a product development perspective, the 14.5-ounce can size is a standard because it balances consumer convenience with manufacturing efficiency. This size fits well within recipe guidelines and packaging logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many ounces are typically in a can of beef broth?
A standard can of beef broth usually contains 14.5 ounces.

Are there different can sizes for beef broth available?
Yes, beef broth cans commonly come in 14.5-ounce and 32-ounce sizes, depending on the brand.

Can I substitute broth cans of different sizes in recipes?
Yes, but you should adjust the quantity accordingly to maintain the recipe’s intended flavor and consistency.

Is the nutritional content listed based on the entire can or per serving?
Nutritional information is generally provided per serving, with the number of servings per can indicated on the label.

How should I store an opened can of beef broth?
Transfer any unused broth to a sealed container and refrigerate; use within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness.

Does the ounce measurement refer to liquid or weight in beef broth cans?
The ounce measurement on beef broth cans refers to fluid ounces, indicating volume rather than weight.
In summary, a standard can of beef broth typically contains 14.5 ounces of liquid. This measurement is common among most brands and is used as a standard reference in recipes and cooking instructions. Understanding the exact volume is essential for accurate recipe preparation and portion control.

It is important to note that while 14.5 ounces is the most prevalent size, some cans may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer or product line. Therefore, checking the label for precise volume information is always advisable to ensure consistency in culinary applications.

Ultimately, knowing the number of ounces in a can of beef broth aids in effective meal planning and helps maintain the intended flavor balance in dishes. This knowledge supports both professional chefs and home cooks in achieving optimal cooking results.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.