Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Enchilada Sauce expire?
As with many take-home sauces, store-bought enchilada sauce can generally last unopened in the pantry until the 'best by' date printed on the jar, which is usually a year or two from production. However, once opened, the sauce should be refrigerated and eaten within 7-10 days. If you have frozen enchilada sauce, it’s best to use it within about 3-4 months to maintain the flavor, though it will technically remain safe indefinitely as long as the temperature is consistently zero degrees Fahrenheit.
How do you tell if Enchilada Sauce is bad?
Spoilage signs of enchilada sauce can include a dark and dense appearance and an unusual smell or off-putting taste. If you spot any sign of mold, or the jar is swollen or leaking, don’t risk it – it's best to discard the sauce.
Tips for storing Enchilada Sauce to extend shelf life
• Always refrigerate the sauce after opening and ensure the lid is sealed tightly.
• As an extra precaution, you can store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. This prevents contamination and helps retain freshness longer.
• If you'd like to extend the shelf life even more, you may freeze the sauce. Separate the required quantity into small containers to avoid thawing and refreezing multiple times which can degrade the quality.
• Always remember to label the containers with the current date before freezing or refrigerating. This helps you keep track of the freshness.