Enchiladas are a delicious and satisfying meal enjoyed by many people all over the world. Whether you’re cooking for a big family dinner or just craving something spicy and savory, enchiladas are always a great choice. One essential ingredient that makes enchiladas so delicious is the sauce. But not everyone has the time or desire to make their own enchilada sauce from scratch. This is where good canned enchilada sauce comes into play. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about good canned enchilada sauce, how to choose the best one, and how it can make your meal preparation easier while still tasting amazing.

What is Enchilada Sauce?

Before we dive into canned enchilada sauce, let’s first understand what it is. Enchilada sauce is a rich, flavorful sauce used to coat tortillas that are rolled up with fillings, like beans, cheese, chicken, or beef. The sauce is what gives the enchiladas that signature savory, slightly spicy flavor. The base of most enchilada sauces is a mix of chili peppers, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and various seasonings. It’s also typically simmered to develop the flavors, resulting in a thick, smooth sauce that coats each bite perfectly.

Traditionally, enchilada sauce is made from scratch using fresh ingredients, but canned enchilada sauces have become a convenient alternative. These pre-made sauces can save you time in the kitchen without compromising on flavor. With the right choice of canned sauce, your enchiladas can taste as good as homemade.

Why Choose Canned Enchilada Sauce?

Now, you may be wondering why you should opt for canned enchilada sauce instead of making it from scratch. Well, there are a few reasons why canned enchilada sauce can be a great choice for your next meal.

1. Convenience: One of the main reasons people choose canned enchilada sauce is the convenience. You don’t have to spend time chopping vegetables, roasting peppers, or simmering the sauce for hours. All you need to do is open the can and pour it over your tortillas. It’s the perfect option for busy days when you still want to enjoy a homemade-tasting meal.
2. Consistency: Canned enchilada sauces are consistent in flavor and texture. You don’t have to worry about getting the balance of spices just right or dealing with the challenges of cooking it yourself. The flavor is already developed, and you can count on it to deliver every time.
3. Shelf-Stable: Canned enchilada sauce can be stored in your pantry for months, making it a great pantry staple. You can always have it on hand when you need it, without worrying about it spoiling in the fridge like fresh ingredients would.
4. Affordable: Making your own enchilada sauce from scratch can require buying a variety of ingredients, many of which you may not use often. Canned enchilada sauce is often more affordable and requires less effort and ingredients.

How to Choose the Best Canned Enchilada Sauce

Not all canned enchilada sauces are created equal. To make sure you’re getting the best quality sauce, here are a few things to look for when choosing your canned enchilada sauce:

1. Flavor: The best canned enchilada sauces have a good balance of spice and flavor. They should be rich, savory, and slightly tangy, with just the right amount of heat. Some sauces are mild, while others are spicier, so you can choose the one that matches your preferences.
2. Ingredients: Take a look at the ingredients list to see if it includes whole, natural ingredients. You want to avoid sauces with too many artificial additives, preservatives, or high levels of sodium. Look for options with high-quality tomatoes, chili peppers, onions, and garlic.
3. Texture: The sauce should be smooth and thick, but not too thick that it becomes hard to spread. A good canned enchilada sauce should have the right consistency to coat your tortillas without being too runny or too dense.
4. Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for their high-quality canned enchilada sauces, while others may fall short. Brands like Old El Paso, La Victoria, and Hatch have established themselves as reliable choices. Always check online reviews or ask for recommendations from friends and family to find the best brands.
5. Spice Level: Enchilada sauces can range from mild to hot. If you prefer a more mild flavor, choose a sauce labeled as “mild” or “medium.” If you like more heat, go for a hot version. Always check the label for spice level to ensure it matches your taste.

How to Use Canned Enchilada Sauce

Canned enchilada sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in more ways than just for enchiladas. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate this sauce into your meals:

1. Enchiladas: The most obvious use for canned enchilada sauce is for making enchiladas. Simply heat up the sauce, roll your tortillas with your preferred fillings, and pour the sauce over the top. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and you’ve got a delicious meal.
2. Tacos: You can use canned enchilada sauce as a topping for tacos. Pour it over your favorite taco fillings like beef, chicken, or beans, and top with cheese, lettuce, and sour cream for a tasty taco twist.
3. Burritos: Pour some enchilada sauce over a burrito and bake it for a hearty, comforting meal. You can even add some extra cheese for a cheesy baked burrito.
4. Quesadillas: Add some enchilada sauce to your quesadilla fillings before grilling for extra flavor. The sauce adds a nice tangy kick to the cheesy goodness inside.
5. Casseroles: Enchilada sauce can be used in casseroles to give them a rich, flavorful base. Mix it with rice, beans, and meat for a one-pan meal that’s both easy and delicious.

Best Canned Enchilada Sauces

Now that you know what to look for in a good canned enchilada sauce, let’s explore some of the best options available on the market:

1. Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce: This is one of the most popular canned enchilada sauces. It’s mild and flavorful, with a rich tomato base and a hint of spice. It’s great for anyone who enjoys a balanced sauce that isn’t too hot.
2. La Victoria Enchilada Sauce: Known for its bold flavor, La Victoria offers both mild and hot versions of its enchilada sauce. It’s made with all-natural ingredients, and it has a rich, thick texture that’s perfect for coating your tortillas.
3. Hatch Green Chile Enchilada Sauce: If you love the flavor of green chiles, this sauce is a great option. It has a unique green chile flavor with just the right amount of heat. It’s perfect for those who want something different from the classic red enchilada sauce.
4. Frank’s RedHot Enchilada Sauce: For those who love heat, Frank’s RedHot offers a spicy enchilada sauce that packs a punch. It’s great for anyone who enjoys extra heat in their meals.
5. Mildred’s Red Enchilada Sauce: This is a fantastic option for those who want a more traditional, homemade-style sauce. It’s made with high-quality ingredients and has a perfectly balanced flavor that makes it great for a variety of dishes.

Tips for Enhancing Canned Enchilada Sauce

While canned enchilada sauce is already delicious on its own, there are a few things you can do to make it even better:

1. Add Fresh Garlic and Onions: Sautéing some fresh garlic and onions and then adding them to your canned sauce will enhance the flavor and add more depth.
2. Spice It Up: If you like more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
3. Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or parsley to your enchilada sauce can give it a fresh, aromatic flavor.
4. Add Tomato Paste: If you want a thicker, richer sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to your canned enchilada sauce. It will deepen the tomato flavor and create a more luxurious texture.

Conclusion

Good canned enchilada sauce is a game-changer when it comes to preparing tasty, hassle-free meals. It saves time without sacrificing flavor and works in a variety of dishes, from enchiladas to tacos and beyond. With so many great brands and options available, you can easily find a canned enchilada sauce that suits your tastes and makes cooking even easier. Whether you’re looking for mild or spicy, there’s a perfect sauce waiting for you to enjoy!