Storebought Enchilada Sauce Can Do More Than You Expect

By
Emily H
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Though homemade enchilada sauce is incredible, if you’re looking for a quick fix full of flavor, store-bought is the way to go. There is so much great flavor packed into a can of enchilada sauce, and if you want to impart that flavor quickly into bland food, it’s perfect for the job. 

Beans

If you’re not in the mood to go all out with enchiladas, having enchilada inspired beans is your next best bet. All you have to do is drain and rinse some black beans, heat them over low with the enchilada sauce, and you have the perfect filling for tacos, quesadillas, nachos, or anything else you please!

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Quick and easy meals are the best, especially since winter usually lowers my energy and desire to do much. 😝 I know I’m not the only one at least. 🙃 . For this lazier Sunday, I made some buffalo black beans that I paired with leftover brown rice and a quick sauté of some veggies I had in my fridge that needed to be used up. The beans are 4 ingredients, no fancy cooking involved, and taste pretty amazing just incase you need a quick meal prep idea. 🤗 . Buffalo Black Beans (serves 2-3) 1 can of black beans (if you want them saucy, do not drain can) 2 tbsp buffalo sauce (I used Frank’s Red Hot) 1 tsp garlic chili sauce 2 tsp maple syrup . In a pan add all ingredients and bring to a low simmer. Stir continuously until sauce starts to thicken to desired consistency. About 5-10 minutes after simmering. Remove from heat and serve. 🍛

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Casserole

Although an enchilada is a sort of casserole in and of itself, if you want to go super American and make a more classic Tex-Mex casserole, enchilada sauce is vital. Whether you want to layer rice or chips with beans or meat, using enchilada sauce in between each layer and even cooked with the protein gives it an undeniably delicious flavor. 

Pasta

Even though it’s not traditional, enchilada pasta is actually an awesome dish. All you have to do is cook the pasta, finish cooking it in some enchilada sauce, and then add in your favorite Mexican-style toppings like corn, beans, chile peppers, or whatever your heart desires!