How Long Does Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada Last?
Storage Guidelines and Expiration Insights
When craving a quick, delicious, and comforting meal, Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada often comes to mind. Known for its blend of organic corn tortillas, rich cheeses, flavorful olives and peppers, and traditional enchilada sauce, this frozen meal has earned a place in many households. But how long can you safely keep this convenient meal in your freezer?
Frozen meals like Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada, when stored properly at 0°F (-18°C) or colder, can remain safe to eat for an extended period. The shelf life of these enchiladas is typically best within one year from the manufacture date. This ensures that the flavors and textures remain at their peak, offering you the best possible eating experience.
Monitoring the expiration date laser-coded on the side of the product box is essential. Keeping an eye on this date helps ensure that you are consuming the meal while it is still at its best quality. Whether you're a busy professional or a parent in need of a quick meal option, knowing how long your Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada lasts allows you to plan your meals with confidence.
Product Overview
Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada is a popular choice for those seeking a convenient meal made with quality organic ingredients. This product is known for its rich flavor profile and suitability for specific dietary needs.
Ingredients
Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada features a blend of cheddar cheese, organic corn tortillas, and savory fillings. The tortillas are made from ground organic corn, providing an authentic taste. Key ingredients include:
Cheddar Cheese
Organic Onions
Organic Sweet Rice Flour
Organic Green Chiles
Organic Bell Peppers
Organic Garlic
Expeller Pressed High Oleic Safflower Oil
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying enchilada.
Nutritional Value
Each serving offers a substantial 490 calories, making it a hearty meal. The protein content stands at 21 grams, which contributes to keeping the consumer feeling full. The enchilada contains 940 mg of sodium, representing nearly half of the daily recommended intake. This product also provides a range of nutrients derived from its organic ingredients, although it's worth noting that the high sodium content might be a concern for some.
Calories: 490
Protein: 21g
Sodium: 940mg
The enchilada combines organic components to offer a health-conscious yet indulgent meal.
Diet Compatibility
Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada is gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians. Despite its rich cheese content, it caters to those avoiding gluten. Contains milk, which makes it unsuitable for those with a dairy allergy. Given its organic ingredients, including corn tortillas and vegetables, it aligns well with organic food consumers' preferences. This product offers an appealing option for those adhering to specific dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor and satisfaction.
Shelf Life and Storage
Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada has specific storage recommendations to maximize freshness and safety. Proper storage extends its shelf life both when frozen and after thawing.
Frozen State
When kept in its original packaging and stored in the freezer, Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada maintains its best quality for up to 12-18 months. The package should be kept at a constant temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.
Keeping it frozen prevents bacterial growth and preserves flavor and texture. It's crucial to ensure the packaging remains intact and unopened to avoid freezer burn, which can negatively impact quality. For optimal results, it is often recommended to scan the package instructions or check the product label for any specific storage tips.
After Thawing
Once thawed, the enchilada should be consumed within 3-5 days if kept in the refrigerator. Thawing should occur in the refrigerator to keep the meal at a safe temperature, reducing spoilage risk.
If the enchilada was initially frozen and then thawed, it should not be refrozen. Reheating can be done using a microwave or traditional oven following package instructions. When reheating, ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Proper handling after thawing ensures that the meal remains safe to eat and retains its flavorful and satisfying qualities.
Preparation Guidelines
Properly preparing Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada ensures the best taste and texture. The instructions vary whether you're using a microwave or a conventional oven.
Microwave Instructions
Using a microwave is a quick and convenient method. Start by making sure the overwrap has a 1-inch slit to release steam. Set the microwave to medium or 50% power and cook for 4 ½ minutes.
After the initial cooking, remove the overwrap and stir the beans. Then, cook the meal on high for an additional 1 to 1 ½ minutes until it is hot throughout. Let the enchilada sit for 1 minute before serving to allow the temperature to even out.
Conventional Oven Instructions
If you prefer a conventional oven, begin by preheating the oven to 375°F. Remove all overwrap from the enchilada and cover the tray with foil. Place the tray on a baking sheet for stability.
Bake the enchilada for 45 to 50 minutes. After baking, let it rest for 1 minute before serving. This method might take more time, but it provides a consistently even texture and warms the food thoroughly.
Safety and Allergen Information
Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada is made with specific allergen-free ingredients in a facility that processes certain allergens. This section provides critical information on potential allergens and cross-contamination risks associated with this product.
Allergens
Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada contains milk and is produced in a facility that processes wheat, soy, tree nuts, and seeds like sunflower seeds. It's essential to read the packaging thoroughly to be aware of these components.
Individuals with food allergies should take note of the listed allergens. While Amy's Kitchen implements gluten testing and allergen control measures, those sensitive to any of the mentioned ingredients should exercise caution.
Cross-Contamination
Amy's Kitchen maintains strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination. Despite no peanuts, fish, shellfish, or eggs being used in their cheese enchiladas, the facility handles other common allergens.
Allergen control measures are implemented at every production level to minimize the risk of cross-contact. Consumers with severe allergies to milk, wheat, soy, tree nuts, or seeds should remain vigilant and consult the packaging for the most accurate and updated information.
Culinary Use
Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchiladas bring traditional Mexican flavors to the table. They pair effortlessly with a variety of sides and can be served in numerous ways to enhance your meal.
Serving Suggestions
Amy's Cheese Enchiladas can be garnished with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color.
To intensify the Mexican theme, consider topping the enchiladas with extra sauce, such as salsa verde or a rich mole.
Including a side of black beans or Mexican rice makes for a more complete and satisfying meal.
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing balance to the rich and cheesy enchiladas.
For added texture, warm corn tortillas can serve as a complementary side or be used to create soft tacos with portions of the enchiladas.
Accompaniments
Pair Amy's Cheese Enchiladas with Mexican rice for a classic combination.
An ideal side dish could be refried beans or black beans seasoned with garlic, cumin, and a touch of chili powder.
A colorful Mexican street corn salad (elote) with chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese offers a tangy contrast to the creamy enchiladas.
Guacamole and pico de gallo can provide fresh and zesty flavors that enhance the overall dining experience.
For those seeking variety, a small serving of Mexican-spiced roasted vegetables can bring vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits to the plate.
Brand Information
Amy's Kitchen is a family-owned company known for producing organic and vegetarian frozen meals. The brand emphasizes using high-quality, organic ingredients to ensure the best taste and nutrition.
The company's website offers detailed product information. This site serves as a helpful resource for consumers seeking specifics about nutritional content, ingredient lists, and preparation instructions.
Founded in 1987, Amy's Kitchen constantly strives to meet consumer demands for convenient, healthy meal options. Their Cheese Enchilada is a notable product, featuring tortillas made from ground organic corn.
Amy's Kitchen products are widely appreciated for their commitment to sustainability and food safety. Access to their detailed manufacturing and expiration date guidelines ensures consumers can fully trust in the quality and longevity of their purchases.
The brand delivers vegetarian-friendly meal options, catering to various dietary needs, including gluten-free, tree-nut free, and kosher. Amy's Kitchen combines traditional recipes with modern organic farming to bring delicious meals to tables everywhere.
Consumer Resources
For those looking to determine how long Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchilada lasts, various consumer resources are available.
Website: Visit the official Amy's Kitchen website for product details and updates. It provides essential information about ingredients, preparation instructions, and shelf life.
Expiration Dates: Check the product packaging for manufacture and expiration dates. Manufactured dates are typically found on the heat-sealed flap of the film wrapper. Expiration dates are laser-coded on the side of each product box.
Customer Service: For specific inquiries, consumers can reach out to Amy's Kitchen customer service. Contact details are usually provided on the company's website. They offer support regarding storage recommendations and product safety.
FAQs: Amy's Kitchen has a comprehensive FAQ section on their website. It answers common questions about their products, including shelf life and storage tips.
Resource Access Description Website Company website Product details, updates, and customer support info Packaging Product box Manufacture and expiration dates Customer Service Website and phone Specific inquiries and personalized support FAQs Website Answers to common questions about shelf life
These resources ensure consumers have all the necessary information to enjoy Amy's Kitchen Cheese Enchiladas safely and effectively.
