Ever stare down a grocery store aisle packed with canned enchilada sauce, feeling completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Picking the wrong one can turn a delicious dinner into a disappointing meal. Some are too watery, others too bland, and finding that perfect balance of spice and flavor feels like a treasure hunt. We all want that rich, authentic taste without spending hours making it from scratch, but the sheer variety can make us want to just grab the first can we see.
But what if there was a way to cut through the confusion? What if you could know which canned enchilada sauce is truly worth your money and will make your enchiladas sing? In this post, we’re diving deep into America’s Test Kitchen’s findings on canned enchilada sauces. We’ll reveal their top picks and explain exactly why they earned those recommendations. Get ready to discover the secrets to effortless, flavorful enchiladas, and say goodbye to guesswork forever.
Our Top 5 Canned Enchilada Sauce America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Canned Enchilada Sauce America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach
Rating: 9.0/10
Dreaming of authentic Mexican food? “The Best Mexican Recipes: Kitchen-Tested Recipes Put the Real Flavors of Mexico Within Reach” brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico right into your kitchen. This book is packed with delicious recipes that have been tried and tested. You can make amazing dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and salsas. It’s designed for home cooks, so you don’t need to be a professional chef to use it. Get ready to impress your family and friends with incredible Mexican meals.
What We Like:
- Easy-to-follow instructions make cooking fun.
- Features a wide variety of classic Mexican dishes.
- Uses common ingredients you can find at most stores.
- Recipes are tested, so they work!
- Beautiful pictures of the food make you want to cook.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some recipes might require a few special Mexican ingredients.
- Could include more regional recipes from different parts of Mexico.
This cookbook is a fantastic resource for anyone who loves Mexican food. It makes exploring the rich flavors of Mexico simple and enjoyable.
2. The Complete Vegetarian Cookbook: A Fresh Guide to Eating Well With 700 Foolproof Recipes (The Complete ATK Cookbook Series)
Rating: 8.6/10
The Complete Vegetarian Cookbook: A Fresh Guide to Eating Well With 700 Foolproof Recipes is a massive collection of plant-based meals from America’s Test Kitchen. This book aims to make vegetarian cooking easy and delicious for everyone. It offers a huge variety of recipes, so you’ll always find something new to try.
What We Like:
- It has an incredible number of recipes – 700 in total!
- The recipes are designed to be “foolproof,” meaning they are tested and reliable.
- It covers a wide range of meals, from quick weeknight dinners to impressive dishes for special occasions.
- The cookbook is part of the trusted America’s Test Kitchen series, known for its thorough testing.
- It provides a fresh approach to vegetarian eating, making it exciting and flavorful.
What Could Be Improved:
- With so many recipes, the sheer size of the book might feel overwhelming for some cooks.
- Some recipes might require ingredients that are not readily available in all grocery stores.
This cookbook is an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore vegetarian cuisine. It’s packed with ideas to help you eat well every day.
3. Old El Paso Mild Green Chile Enchilada Sauce
Rating: 8.5/10
Spice up your meals with Old El Paso Mild Green Chile Enchilada Sauce! This 10 oz can brings a gentle kick to your Tex-Mex favorites. It’s made with flavorful green chiles and a touch of jalapeno for just the right amount of heat.
What We Like:
- It offers a mild spiciness that’s not too hot.
- You can use it for more than just enchiladas, like in stews or tacos.
- It saves you time because it’s ready to use right away.
- It adds a delicious flavor to both meat and vegetable dishes.
- It’s a convenient way to make your meals tastier.
What Could Be Improved:
- The can size is 10 oz, which might be small for larger families or multiple meals.
- While mild, some very sensitive palates might still find a slight tingle.
This sauce is a simple way to add great taste to your cooking. It’s a helpful ingredient for busy cooks.
4. Las Palmas Green Chile Enchilada Sauce
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to spice up your meals with Las Palmas Green Chile Enchilada Sauce, Medium, 10 Ounce! This sauce brings a tasty kick to your favorite Mexican dishes. It’s made in the United States, so you know you’re getting a quality product for your kitchen.
What We Like:
- The medium heat level is just right for most people. It adds flavor without being too spicy.
- It’s very versatile. You can use it for enchiladas, of course, but also in casseroles or as a dipping sauce.
- The package size is convenient for a few meals.
- It’s easy to find in the grocery store.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people might want a spicier option.
- The 10-ounce can might be a bit small if you’re making a large batch of enchiladas.
This Las Palmas Green Chile Enchilada Sauce is a solid choice for anyone wanting to add authentic flavor to their cooking. It’s a simple way to make your meals more exciting.
5. Old El Paso Mild Red Enchilada Sauce
Rating: 8.6/10
This Old El Paso Mild Red Enchilada Sauce is a convenient way to add a delicious Tex-Mex flavor to your meals. It’s made with tomato puree, chile pepper, and tasty seasonings, giving your dishes a mild kick without being too spicy. This sauce is perfect for making enchiladas, but you can also use it in stews, tacos, and burritos for an extra burst of flavor.
What We Like:
- It brings a mild spiciness to Tex-Mex dishes.
- It’s made from tomato puree, chile pepper, and flavorful seasoning.
- You can use it for enchiladas, stews, tacos, burritos, and more.
- It saves prep time because it’s ready to mix and cook.
- It’s a great flavor booster for meat and veggie dishes.
- It pairs well with queso for a cheesy twist.
- One can contains 10 oz of sauce.
What Could Be Improved:
- The can size might be too small for larger families or frequent use.
- Some users might prefer a spicier option.
Overall, Old El Paso Mild Red Enchilada Sauce is a useful pantry staple for anyone who loves Tex-Mex cooking. It simplifies meal prep and adds a welcome flavor to a variety of dishes.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Canned Enchilada Sauce Adventure
Tired of bland enchiladas? Finding the right canned enchilada sauce can make a huge difference! America’s Test Kitchen has tested many, and we’re here to help you pick the best one for your next delicious meal. Let’s dive in!
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for canned enchilada sauce, keep these important things in mind:
- Flavor Profile: Does it taste authentic? Good enchilada sauce has a balance of chili flavor, a little tang, and some savory notes. Some are mild, while others offer a nice kick. Decide if you want heat or a smoother taste.
- Texture: The sauce should be smooth and pourable, not lumpy or watery. It should coat your enchiladas nicely without being too thick or too thin.
- Ingredients: Look for simple, recognizable ingredients. Real chili powder, tomatoes, and spices are great signs. Avoid sauces with a lot of artificial flavors or preservatives if you can.
- Heat Level: This is a big one! Sauces are often labeled mild, medium, or hot. Read the labels carefully. If you’re unsure, start with a medium.
- Versatility: Can you use it for more than just enchiladas? Great sauces can also be used in dips, soups, or as a base for other Mexican dishes.
2. Important Materials
The “materials” in canned enchilada sauce are its ingredients. The quality of these ingredients directly impacts the taste.
- Chili Peppers: The type and quality of chili peppers used are crucial. Ancho, New Mexico, and guajillo chilies are common and provide deep, rich flavors.
- Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes or tomato paste form the base. Good quality tomatoes give the sauce a fresh, vibrant taste.
- Spices: Cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder are common. The right blend creates that classic enchilada flavor.
- Broth or Stock: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth and helps create the right consistency.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make enchilada sauce taste amazing, and a few can make it taste not-so-amazing.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Real Chili Flavor: Sauces made with actual ground chili peppers or chili paste taste much better than those relying on artificial flavorings.
- Balanced Spices: A well-balanced blend of spices creates a complex and satisfying taste.
- Good Base Ingredients: High-quality tomatoes and broth make a big difference.
- Proper Simmering: The sauce is often simmered to let the flavors meld.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Artificial Ingredients: Too many artificial flavors or colors can make the sauce taste processed and less authentic.
- Too Salty: A lot of salt can overpower other flavors.
- Watery Consistency: A sauce that’s too thin doesn’t coat the enchiladas well.
- Lack of Depth: A sauce that tastes one-dimensional or bland isn’t ideal.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use and feel about canned enchilada sauce? It’s all about convenience and great taste.
- Easy Weeknight Meals: This is the biggest win! Canned sauce saves a lot of time. You can go from can to table in under an hour.
- Enchiladas, of Course! The most obvious use. Pour it over rolled tortillas filled with cheese, chicken, beans, or vegetables.
- Sauce for Other Dishes: Many people use it as a base for quick chili, a flavorful topping for tacos or burritos, or even to add a kick to scrambled eggs.
- Taste Preferences: People’s experiences vary based on their taste. Some love a spicy kick, while others prefer a milder flavor. Reading reviews can help you find a sauce that matches your spice preference.
- Convenience Factor: For busy cooks, the convenience of having a ready-to-use sauce is a huge advantage.
America’s Test Kitchen helps us find the sauces that deliver on flavor and ease. Keep these points in mind, and you’ll be making delicious enchiladas in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes America’s Test Kitchen’s recommendations special?
A: America’s Test Kitchen tests many products thoroughly. They focus on taste, ingredients, and how well the product performs in cooking. Their recommendations are based on lots of testing.
Q: How do I know if a canned enchilada sauce is good?
A: A good sauce tastes rich and has a balanced flavor. It should have a nice chili taste, not just be salty or watery. The ingredients list should be mostly real food items.
Q: Can I make canned enchilada sauce spicier?
A: Yes! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños to the sauce before you use it.
Q: What are the best brands of canned enchilada sauce?
A: America’s Test Kitchen often recommends brands that use good ingredients and have a well-rounded flavor. We’ll be sharing their top picks soon!
Q: Is canned enchilada sauce healthy?
A: It depends on the brand. Some are healthier than others. Look for sauces with lower sodium and fewer artificial ingredients. They can be part of a balanced diet.
Q: What’s the difference between red and green enchilada sauce?
A: Red enchilada sauce is typically made with dried chilies and tomatoes. Green enchilada sauce is usually made with tomatillos and green chilies, giving it a tangier flavor.
Q: Can I freeze leftover canned enchilada sauce?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover sauce. Put it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should last for a few months.
Q: How long does canned enchilada sauce last once opened?
A: Once opened, transfer any leftover sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will usually last for about 5-7 days.
Q: What are some easy recipes using canned enchilada sauce?
A: Besides enchiladas, you can use it in a quick chicken or bean casserole, as a base for a flavorful soup, or to make a simple dip for tortilla chips.
Q: Does the type of chili matter in enchilada sauce?
A: Yes, the type of chili greatly affects the flavor. Ancho chilies give a mild, smoky flavor, while New Mexico chilies offer a brighter, fruitier taste. Different blends create different flavor profiles.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!