Picante Sauce

Sauce, Condiment

Picante Sauce Sauce, Condiment

At a Glance

  • Category Sauce, Condiment

The Forktionary Angle

"The smoother, spicier cousin to salsa, delivering a punch of flavor with every dip."

Definition

A condiment similar to salsa, but typically smoother in consistency, with a distinct spicy kick, made from tomatoes, peppers, and onions.

Key Ingredient Often contains jalapeño or serrano peppers.
Scoville Heat Units Varies from 500-2,500 SHU (mild to medium).
Texture Typically smoother than chunky salsa.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Picante Sauce are:

Spicy Zesty Tangy Savory Umami

Chef’s Secret

To deepen the flavor of store-bought picante, simmer it gently with a pinch of cumin and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for 10 minutes.

Best Substitutes

Salsa

chunkier
Ratio 1:1

Hot Sauce

less complex flavor
Ratio 1:1

Canned Diced Tomatoes with Chilies

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Check heat level (mild, medium, hot). Read ingredient list for natural vs. artificial flavors.

Recipes Using Picante Sauce

Tex Mex Equipment Vegetarian American

Best Ever Low Fat Mexican Soup

This incredibly flavorful, low-fat Mexican bean soup is a family favorite! Packed with hearty beans and zesty Mexican spices, it's quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for a grab-and-go lunch or dinner. Your kids will devour this delicious and surprisingly low-fat soup!

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Soups Stews Beans Soups Stews Time To Make

Absolute Best Chicken Tortilla Soup Ever

This incredible Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe is a family favorite! I discovered it online years ago (sadly, I've lost the original source – I wish I could give proper credit!). Creamy avocado, zesty spices, and tender chicken combine in a broth so flavorful, it's truly the best you'll ever taste. Don't skip the avocado – it's the secret ingredient that elevates this soup to another level! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a vibrant weekend gathering.

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Appetizers Preparation Appetizers 30 Minutes Or Less

Bean And Cheese Dip

This irresistible warm bean and cheese dip is the perfect appetizer for game day, parties, or a cozy night in! Made ahead and baked to bubbly perfection, this recipe features a creamy blend of beans, cheeses, and zesty spices. Serve with your favorite corn or tortilla chips for an unforgettable flavor explosion.

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Cheese Cheese Course Appetizers

Alabama Dip

Experience the taste of the South with this creamy, irresistible Alabama Dip! A crowd-pleasing queso-style dip with just the right touch of heat, perfect for your next gathering. This recipe, inspired by a beloved Alabama hostess, is easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with tortilla chips. Customize the spice level to your preference – add more picante sauce for extra kick! Get ready for rave reviews!

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American Main Dish Italian Main Ingredient

Bbq Lasagna

This Christmas-inspired BBQ Lasagna is a game-changer! Forget traditional pasta – this recipe uses corn tortillas for a smoky, Southwestern twist on a classic comfort food. The savory BBQ meat filling, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese create a flavor explosion that your family will adore. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Vegetables Winter Time To Make Stove Top

Beef Stew A La Italia

Indulge in this hearty Beef Stew A La Italia, a comforting classic bursting with rich Italian flavors! Tender beef, slow-simmered in a robust tomato sauce with aromatic vegetables, will leave you craving seconds. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread. Get ready for a taste of Italy!

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Pork Number Of Servings Time To Make Meat

Bacon Egg And Cheese Breakfast Taco

Start your day with the ultimate flavor explosion! This Bacon Egg & Cheese Breakfast Taco recipe is quick, easy, and delivers a perfectly melty cheese experience. Customize it to your liking – microwave for a minute or grill it on your George Foreman grill for that satisfying crispy bacon and gooey cheese. Get ready for a breakfast taco that's anything but ordinary!

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Beginner Cook Occasion Course Appetizers

Awesome Taco Dip

This legendary taco dip recipe has been a party favorite since 1990! Easy to make, yet incredibly delicious, this crowd-pleasing dip is perfect for game day, potlucks, or any gathering. Get ready for rave reviews! (Can sizes are approximate)

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Beef Dietary Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less

Beef And Bacon Chili

This hearty Beef and Bacon Chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Packed with savory bacon, juicy beef, and a rich blend of spices, it's the perfect comforting meal for a chilly evening. Easy to follow instructions and customizable toppings make this chili a winner for both beginner and experienced cooks. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Number Of Servings Breakfast For 1 Or 2 Number Of Servings

Avocado With Scrambled Eggs

Experience a flavor explosion with this surprisingly delicious combination of creamy avocado and warm, cheesy scrambled eggs! This recipe, inspired by a beloved restaurant dish, is a quick and easy way to use up leftover avocado dip (homemade is best!). The cool avocado perfectly complements the rich, cheesy eggs – trust us, it's a match made in culinary heaven. Perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner.

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Course 60 Minutes Or Less Course Low In Something

Always Delicious Chicken Cheese Enchiladas

Craving comfort food? This insanely delicious Chicken Cheese Enchilada recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds! Inspired by the Junior League of Spokane's Gold'n Delicious Cookbook (a culinary legend!), this quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 45 minutes. Get ready for cheesy, saucy perfection!

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Side Dishes Fruit Easy North American

Avocados Banderas

These vibrant Avocados Banderas are a fiesta for your taste buds! So simple to prepare (ready in just 5 minutes!), they're the perfect colorful and delicious addition to any Tex-Mex or Mexican-themed meal. Impress your guests with this stunning appetizer that's as easy as 1, 2, 3!

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For Large Groups Served Hot Time To Make Oven

Beef Taquitos Oamc

Craving delicious beef taquitos but short on time? This OAMC (Overnight and Make Ahead) recipe lets you enjoy crispy, flavorful taquitos without the guilt of takeout! We're transforming a simple roast into amazing homemade taquitos perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Easily adaptable to chicken too!

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Time To Make Stews Dietary Course

Barn Raising Stew

Warm up on a chilly evening with this hearty Barn Raising Stew! A comforting classic passed down from neighbor to neighbor, this recipe is incredibly flavorful and easy to make. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a rich broth, bursting with savory vegetables. Top it with shredded Mexican cheese and a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence (optional, but highly recommended!), or enjoy its rustic charm on its own. This is the perfect weeknight meal that's both satisfying and delicious!

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Time To Make Preparation Course 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Beans With Ground Beef

Fall-off-the-bone tender ground beef and hearty baked beans simmered to perfection! This family-favorite recipe, inspired by Bill's incredible dish, is bursting with flavor. Get ready for a cozy and satisfying meal that's perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or a special occasion.

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Dinner Party Cuisine Number Of Servings Californian

Arizona Juan Tons Wontons

Craving a flavorful twist on classic wontons? This Arizona Republic-featured recipe delivers Southwestern flair with juicy beef, zesty beans, and melty cheese, all wrapped in crispy wonton goodness. Perfect for a fun appetizer or satisfying main course!

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Main Dish Preparation Pasta Rice And Grains Low Cholesterol

Alan's Vegetarian Vegan Bean And Rice Burger Mashup

This hearty and flavorful vegan bean and rice mashup is a game-changer! Packed with black beans, pinto beans, and brown rice, it's seasoned with chili powder, cumin, garlic, oregano, and a touch of cayenne for a delicious kick. Perfect as a burger substitute (though it might need a binder), a filling wrap, or simply a satisfying stand-alone meal. This recipe is made in bulk, easily freezable, and incredibly versatile. Get ready to get your hands dirty – it's worth it! Find a vegan breadcrumb substitute for a completely plant-based meal.

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Breakfast Omelets And Frittatas Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

My Huevos Rancheros

A vibrant twist on a classic Mexican breakfast! This recipe, perfected over 15 years, combines the best elements from my favorite local cafes. Get ready for a flavor explosion of savory sauteed vegetables, perfectly cooked eggs, and melted cheese, all nestled on warm tortillas. A truly unforgettable brunch experience!

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