Enchilada sauce is a delicious addition to any Mexican-inspired dish, but what do you do with the leftovers?
Do you toss it out, or can you store it for later use?
The good news is that you can definitely store leftover enchilada sauce, but there are some important things to keep in mind.
In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to store your enchilada sauce, how long it will last, and some tips for reheating and using it in future meals.
So, if you’re a fan of this tasty sauce and want to make the most of your leftovers, keep reading!
How To Store Leftover Enchilada Sauce?
The first step in storing leftover enchilada sauce is to make sure it is properly cooled down. Once you have finished using the sauce, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it.
Next, transfer the sauce to an airtight container. This can be a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the sauce.
Once you have transferred the sauce to the container, store it in the refrigerator. Enchilada sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, but it will thicken over time. To thin it out, simply add some water or chicken broth and stir well.
If you have a large amount of leftover enchilada sauce that you know you won’t be able to use within a week, consider freezing it instead.
To freeze enchilada sauce, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can use plastic bags or glass jars for this, but make sure they are labeled with the date and contents.
Enchilada sauce can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Best Storage Containers For Enchilada Sauce
When it comes to choosing the best storage container for your leftover enchilada sauce, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want a container that is airtight and leak-proof. This will help to prevent the sauce from spoiling or absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.
Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are a great option for storing enchilada sauce. Mason jars are especially popular for this purpose, as they come in a range of sizes and are easy to label with the date and contents. Plus, glass is non-reactive, so it won’t affect the flavor of the sauce.
Plastic containers with snap-on lids can also work well, but make sure they are labeled as “freezer-safe” if you plan to freeze the sauce. Avoid using containers that are flimsy or have a tendency to warp, as these may not create an airtight seal.
If you prefer to use plastic bags for freezing, double-bag them to prevent leaks or punctures. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing the bags, as this will help to prevent freezer burn.
How Long Can You Store Enchilada Sauce?
The shelf life of enchilada sauce can vary depending on how it is stored. If the sauce is unopened and kept in a cool, dry pantry, it can last up to two years. However, once the can has been opened, the leftover sauce should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
When stored properly in the fridge, enchilada sauce can last for up to a week. It is important to note that the sauce will thicken over time, but this can easily be remedied by thinning it out with some water or chicken broth.
If you have a large amount of leftover enchilada sauce that you know you won’t be able to use within a week, freezing it is a great option. When frozen in a freezer-safe container, enchilada sauce can last for up to three months.
It is important to label the container with the date and contents so that you know how long it has been frozen. When you’re ready to use the frozen sauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips For Reheating Enchilada Sauce
If you’re reheating frozen enchilada sauce, the best way to do so is by thawing it in the refrigerator overnight. Once it has thawed, transfer the sauce to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat until it is warmed through. Be sure to stir the sauce often to ensure that it heats evenly.
Alternatively, you can transfer the frozen sauce to a glass bowl and heat it in one-minute intervals in the microwave. Again, be sure to stir the sauce often to ensure that it heats evenly.
If you’re reheating refrigerated enchilada sauce, simply transfer the container from the fridge to the stove and heat over medium heat until warmed through. Again, be sure to stir the sauce often to ensure that it heats evenly.
If you find that your reheated enchilada sauce is too thick, simply add some water or chicken broth and stir well. This will help to thin out the sauce and make it easier to work with.
Remember, when reheating enchilada sauce, it’s important to do so slowly and evenly. This will help to ensure that the sauce heats through properly and doesn’t become burnt or overcooked. By following these simple tips, you can easily store and reheat leftover enchilada sauce for future use.
Creative Ways To Use Leftover Enchilada Sauce
If you find yourself with leftover enchilada sauce, don’t worry! There are plenty of creative ways to use it up and add some flavor to your meals. Here are some ideas:
1. Use it as a marinade: Enchilada sauce makes a great marinade for chicken, beef, or tofu. Simply coat your protein in the sauce and let it marinate in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.
2. Mix it into scrambled eggs: Add a spoonful of enchilada sauce to your scrambled eggs for a spicy kick. Top with cheese and serve with tortillas for a breakfast burrito.
3. Make enchilada soup: Heat up some chicken broth and add in leftover enchilada sauce, shredded chicken, beans, and vegetables for a hearty soup.
4. Use it as a pizza sauce: Spread enchilada sauce on a pizza crust instead of tomato sauce for a Mexican-inspired twist on pizza night.
5. Mix it into rice or quinoa: Add some enchilada sauce to cooked rice or quinoa for a flavorful side dish.
6. Use it as a dip: Serve enchilada sauce as a dip for tortilla chips or veggies.
7. Make enchilada stuffed peppers: Cut the tops off of bell peppers and stuff them with cooked rice, beans, cheese, and leftover enchilada sauce. Bake in the oven until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
8. Use it as a topping: Drizzle leftover enchilada sauce over tacos, nachos, or baked potatoes for added flavor.
With these creative ideas, you can use up your leftover enchilada sauce in no time and add some delicious flavor to your meals!
