Campbell's Chunky Hearty Beef and Barley Soup, 18.8 Oz Can – Shelf-Stable Warm Dinner for Camping and Tailgating
Campbell's Chunky Hearty Beef and Barley Soup, 18.8 Oz Can – Shelf-Stable Warm Dinner for Camping and Tailgating
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Why you'll love it
- 20 grams of protein delivers a filling, meal-worthy soup rather than a light starter
- Microwavable can means ready in minutes with zero cooking skill required
- Portable can format travels easily to campsites, job sites, or lunches
- Trusted Campbell's brand reduces purchase risk for a familiar comfort food
- Hearty chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes feel homemade rather than watery
- Affordable shelf-stable alternative to takeout or delivery on cold nights
Perfect for
- Heat-and-eat weeknight dinner with no prep time
- Warm campfire meal on camping or hiking trips
- Quick protein-rich lunch at the office or home desk
- Pantry-staple backup meal during busy weeks or emergencies
- Satisfying single-serve meal for one on a cold day
Product Information
Campbell's Chunky Soup: One 18.8 oz can of Campbell's Chunky Soup, Beef and Barley Soup Big Flavors: Canned soup with savory beef, carrots and potatoes that come together with toasted barley in a delicious fireside favorite 20 grams of Protein: Hearty soup contains vegetables and 20 g of protein in each can Great for At Home or On the Go: Take these beef and barley soup cans on outdoor adventures to eat by the campfire, or enjoy on weeknights at home Microwavable Beef Soup: This easy to microwave soup is easy to prepare, just heat and serve
Product Dimensions : 3.19 x 3.19 x 5 inches; 1.33 Pounds Item model number : 200000023345 UPC : 051000233455 Manufacturer : CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY Units : 18.8 Ounce Best Sellers Rank: #3,484 in Grocery & Gourmet Food
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this can sturdy enough to pack in a cooler or backpack for camping?
Yes. The 18.8 oz can is sealed and shelf-stable, so it holds up well in a cooler, daypack, or trail tote without refrigeration. Just pack it like any canned good and heat it at your campsite.
Can I heat this soup on a camp stove or over a campfire?
Absolutely. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over a camp stove, jetboil, or campfire. Many campers also heat it directly in the can over a low flame—just remove the label first and stir often.
Does the can need to be refrigerated during a day hike?
No. The can is shelf-stable until opened, so it stays safe for a full day on the trail. For best taste, keep it in an insulated bag or cooler so it's not piping hot from the sun.
Is this hearty enough to count as a full meal after a long hike?
Yes. With 20 grams of protein, real chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes, and toasted barley in a rich broth, one 18.8 oz can is a filling, meal-worthy lunch or dinner on the trail.
How do I pack out the empty can responsibly?
Rinse the empty can, crush it flat, and pack it out in your trash bag. Aluminum cans are widely recyclable at trailhead and campground bins.
Is this a good soup to bring on a multi-day camping trip?
Yes. Because the cans are shelf-stable and individually portioned, you can pack one for each night without worrying about a cooler. It's a reliable hot meal for basecamp dinners.
Can I use this as a warm lunch on a road trip?
Definitely. Many travelers pack a can in their cooler and heat it at a rest stop microwave or warm it on a 12V portable stove for a hot, protein-rich break from drive-through food.
Does it hold up in hot weather inside a car or trunk?
The sealed can is fine in heat, though extreme temperatures can affect flavor over time. For a road trip, store it in a cooler out of direct sun for the best taste.
Is this lighter to carry than a dehydrated backpacking meal?
It's a bit heavier than a freeze-dried pouch, but it offers a more familiar, comfort-food experience. For short hikes and car camping, most people find the trade-off worth it.
Is it cheaper than pre-made camping meals from outdoor brands?
Generally, yes. A single-serve can of Campbell's Chunky is typically more affordable per serving than specialty camping meal pouches, making it a smart budget option for car campers and road trippers.
How does this compare to instant ramen for camping trips?
It has substantially more protein (20 g vs. typical ramen's 5–7 g), real meat and vegetables, and a heartier broth. It's a more filling, meal-worthy upgrade from instant noodles.
Is this better than bringing a homemade soup in a thermos?
Homemade soup in a thermos can be great on day one, but it requires prep, cooling, and ice packs. A shelf-stable can is easier, safer for multi-day trips, and just as satisfying.
Can I really microwave it right in the can at a campsite with a portable power station?
Yes. If your power station runs a small microwave or 12V travel microwave, you can heat the soup directly in the can after removing the lid—perfect for vanlife and overlanding setups.
Will the can leak if it gets jostled in my pack?
No, not while it's sealed. The double-seamed can is leak-proof until opened, so you can pack it alongside other gear with confidence.
Is the portion size right for one hungry camper?
Yes. At 18.8 oz, it's designed as a single-serve, meal-sized portion. Most campers find it filling enough to replace a full dinner after a long day outdoors.
I have a metal allergy—does the can lining affect the soup?
Modern food cans have a protective lining that prevents direct contact between the food and metal. Most people with sensitivities tolerate canned soup without issues, but check with your doctor if you have specific concerns.
How do I heat Campbell's Chunky Hearty Beef and Barley Soup in the can?
For microwaving, open the can, pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl, and heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway. To microwave directly in the can, remove the metal lid completely and place the open can in the microwave for about 2 minutes—only do this if your microwave is in good condition and the can has no metal damage. For stovetop, pour into a saucepan and heat over medium, stirring occasionally.
How long does an unopened can stay fresh in the pantry?
Shelf-stable Campbell's Chunky cans typically have a best-by date 2–3 years from production. Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for the best quality.
Can I freeze leftover soup after opening the can?
Yes. Transfer any unused portion to an airtight freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Does this soup work in a small dorm or office microwave?
Yes. A standard 600–1000 watt microwave heats a bowl of this soup in about 2–3 minutes. Use a microwave-safe bowl rather than heating in the can when wattage is low or the microwave is shared.
Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes. To use a slow cooker, pour the can in, add a little water or broth, and heat on low for 1–2 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the 'Sauté' function to warm it through in about 5 minutes, or pour it in with a cup of water and use the 'Keep Warm' setting for 10–15 minutes.
What should I expect to find in the can when I open it?
You'll see a hearty mix of broth, tender chunks of beef, sliced carrots, potato pieces, and barley. The soup is ready-to-eat and does not require any additional ingredients, though you can season to taste with salt, pepper, or fresh herbs.
Is it safe to eat this soup past the best-by date?
If the can is intact (no swelling, leaks, or rust) and has been stored properly, the soup is generally safe for a short time past the printed date, though flavor and texture may decline. When in doubt, follow the date on the can.
Is the can recyclable after use?
Yes. Steel food cans are widely recyclable. Rinse the empty can, place the lid inside, and recycle it with your other metal food cans according to your local recycling program.
How does a canned soup like this compare to a fresh soup from a deli or restaurant?
Fresh deli soup often uses higher-quality ingredients and can be lower in sodium, but it's perishable, more expensive, and not always available. Canned soup like Campbell's Chunky is shelf-stable, affordable, and ready in minutes, making it a convenient everyday option that many people keep stocked as a backup.
