13 Ways To Cook With Fast Food Chain Sauces
If you have amassed a collection of leftover sauce packets from visiting your favorite fast food restaurants, you're not alone. From fiery dips to tangy dressings, many of us have a treasure trove of assorted sauces hiding in our kitchens, once stored away with dreams of future french fry dipping and salad upgrades. But, let's face it — more often than not these little packets fail to see the light of day again.
Rather than relegating them to the depths of your drawers, it's time to explore some deliciously creative ways to repurpose these forgotten condiments. Whether you're looking to add some punchy flavor to your taco fillings, create a tasty marinade, or whip up a slow cooker delight, there are so many ways that these little pouches of flavor can elevate your home cooking. So dig out your stash, and get ready to add a little magic to your favorite dishes.
1. Transform homemade Mexican dishes with Taco Bell sauces
The bold flavors of Taco Bell's beloved sauce packets have long been enjoyed by the chain's customers. Available in a range of spice levels — Mild, Hot, Fire, and Diablo — they're the perfect way to customize dishes with your desired amount of heat. If drive-thru feasting has left you with a hoard of these vibrant sauce packets, you're equipped with the ultimate ingredient to take your homemade Mexican-inspired dishes to new heights.
For a classic, crowd-pleasing option, use the sauces to flavor your favorite taco fillings. First, fry some ground beef, onion, red bell pepper, and garlic, before mixing in a few tablespoons of leftover sauce. The different flavor profiles of each sauce are sure to add a unique kick, offering a taste reminiscent of your favorite fast-food indulgence.
Tacos may be a firm favorite, but these sauce packets can be used to enhance just about any Mexican-inspired dish. "Enchiladas are the answer," said a Reddit user on a thread discussing ways to use up these much-loved sauces. A humble can of tomato sauce can be transformed into a fiery red enchilada sauce by squeezing in a few pouches from your Taco Bell stash. "Mix into refried beans for a little extra zip," was another genius suggestion, along with mixing them into a hearty homemade chili, or using the sauces to season Mexican rice. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative, armed with your new culinary secret for Mexican-inspired perfection.
2. Use Panda Express teriyaki sauce as a flavor-packed marinade
Panda Express is renowned for its irresistible selection of Chinese dishes, with a wonderfully sweet and savory teriyaki sauce serving as a popular accompaniment to many items on the menu. This rich, sticky sauce is also perfect for adding some Asian-inspired flair to your home cooking. When repurposed as a marinade, leftover teriyaki can infuse dishes with plenty of delicious umami flavor.
It's as easy as combining your protein source of choice with a generous coating of the leftover sauce in a bowl or sealed plastic bag and leaving it to marinade for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor intensity, you can leave the protein to mingle overnight in the fridge. This method works wonderfully with chicken, salmon, beef, or tofu.
When it comes to cooking your marinated delights, plenty of options will work well for this versatile sauce. Whether you're grilling, frying, or baking, the teriyaki-coated protein will lend a deliciously caramelized finish to your dishes. For a quick weeknight dinner, toss teriyaki chicken into a stir-fry with a colorful array of veggies, or grill teriyaki-infused beef skewers for a tasty outdoor barbecue experience.
3. Elevate your slow cooker recipes with McDonald's barbecue sauce
McDonald's barbecue sauce has become one of the most iconic condiments of all, with its mouth-watering balance of sweetness and tanginess. But these flavorful pots aren't just great for dipping nuggets. That smoky taste of barbecue works amazingly when incorporated into a range of homemade slow cooker recipes.
For a pulled pork masterpiece, coat a pork shoulder with barbecue sauce and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until it effortlessly shreds with a fork. This method truly allows the famous taste of McDonald's sauce to shine through, as the meat soaks up every ounce of flavor. Leftover sauce can be used to coat chicken thighs, beef brisket, or pork ribs before nestling them into your slow cooker pot.
This tangy sauce can also add heaps of sweet and smoky flavor to a humble baked beans recipe. Add two drained cans of white beans to your slow cooker pot along with a diced onion, enough tomato passata to cover everything, and a sprinkling of both smoked paprika and garlic powder. Stir in the barbecue sauce and let the slow cooker work its magic. Get ready for the delicious aromas to fill your kitchen as your secret ingredient transforms the final dish into a luscious barbecue-infused delight.
4. Add a kick to cheese dip with Burger King buffalo sauce
Looking to spice up your next gathering? Burger King's buffalo sauce is the perfect ingredient to add some heat to a basic cheese dip. If you're preparing a spread for a get-together with friends, this fiery dip is sure to be a hit.
Start by whipping up the base of a classic cheese dip. A mixture of cream cheese with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack is a great choice. Simply add the cheeses to a mixing bowl and microwave everything until you're able to stir the mixture together. Then it's time to add a few tablespoons of your secret weapon, adjusting the amount to taste. The buffalo sauce infuses a tangy flavor and a kick of heat that pairs well with the creamy cheese.
Transfer everything to an oven-proof dish, bake until golden and bubbling, and serve with tortilla chips, pretzels, or crudites for dipping. For an extra indulgent twist, try adding some fried bacon bits, shredded chicken, or diced jalapeños to the dip. Your guests won't be able to get enough of this addictive appetizer.
5. Whip up an egg salad with Chick-fil-A sauce
Egg salad is a much-loved dish that's optimal for filling sandwiches, serving over leafy greens, or simply enjoying on its own. But if you're looking to upgrade this humble recipe, look no further than Chick-fil-A's classic sauce.
You'll first need to hard-boil several eggs until they're cooked through, then place them in a bowl of cold water to cool. Next, peel and chop them into small chunks and mix them with a good dollop of your leftover Chick-fil-A sauce. To round it out, add a spoonful of mayonnaise, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and some chopped green onions before stirring everything together. You could also get creative with add-ins such as diced celery, olives, or parsley.
The Chick-fil-A sauce brings a sweet and tangy flavor to the egg salad that takes it to another level of deliciousness. Serve it on freshly sliced bread and you've got the ultimate homemade lunch with the bonus of tasty Chick-fil-A flavors from the comfort of your home.
6. Make Animal Fries at home with In-N-Out Spread
Animal fries are a firm favorite item on the menu at In-N-Out Burger, featuring crispy potatoes smothered in melted cheese, grilled onions, and the signature spread. Recreate this indulgent treat at home using those stashed away In-N-Out Spread packets.
Start by baking your fries of choice according to the packet instructions. While the fries are in the oven, finely dice a yellow onion and fry it on low-medium heat with a little oil until caramelized and golden brown. Once the fries are hot and crispy, transfer them to a serving dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Place the dish under the broiler for a minute or two, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Next, scatter the cheesy fries with the caramelized onions and generously drizzle your In-N-Out spread all over the top. The sauce adds a creamy and zippy flavor that ties everything together and gives the fries that signature In-N-Out taste. Garnish the dish with chopped parsley or green onions for a final pop of color and freshness.
7. Smother crusty French bread with Pizza Hut garlic dip
The famous garlic dip at Pizza Hut isn't just for dunking crusts. Your leftover packets can easily be used to transform a simple loaf of French bread into a flavor-packed appetizer or side dish. Simply slice it into thick slices, then spread a generous layer of creamy garlic dip onto each slice. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake until the bread is toasted and the garlic dip is melty and golden brown. The result is wonderfully crusty bread with a gooey, garlicky topping that you can tear and share.
This method works equally well with other types of bread. Try smothering the dip over ciabatta, focaccia, naan, or Greek flatbread before baking for a garlicky flavor boost. Whichever base you opt for, your homemade garlic bread will be an excellent accompaniment to a range of dishes, from your favorite pasta to a nourishing salad bowl.
8. Spice up an omelet with McDonald's Hot Picante sauce
You might think you already have your omelet routine perfected, but have you considered including an element of spice? McDonald's Hot Picante sauce is a surprisingly delicious addition to your morning eggs. This punchy condiment is typically served with the chain's breakfast burritos and brings a whole new layer of fiery flavor.
Whisk together your eggs, salt, pepper, and a dish of Hot Picante sauce in a bowl. Next, heat a little oil in a frying pan over medium heat and pour in the egg mixture. As the omelet begins to set, add your favorite fillings and sprinkle in shredded cheese, then fold the omelet over. Cook for another minute or until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
The result is a flavorful omelet with a spicy kick that's sure to wake up your taste buds. Serve it with an extra drizzle of sauce on top and pair it with some crispy hash browns and juicy grilled tomatoes for a breakfast that's anything but ordinary.
9. Roast salmon fillets with Wendy's honey mustard sauce
Honey and mustard is an amazingly versatile flavor combination, but one of our favorite ways to bring this iconic taste into a meal is by smothering honey mustard sauce on salmon. Of course, there's no need to prep a sauce from scratch. Those leftover Wendy's honey mustard sauce packets at the back of your drawer are all you need.
Preheat your oven to 400 F and place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season them with salt and pepper, then generously brush your Wendy's honey mustard sauce over the top of each fillet. Roast the salmon in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. The honey mustard sauce will caramelize slightly, creating a delicious sweet and tangy glaze.
For a complete meal, serve the salmon alongside your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you have an elegant dish that's sure to impress.
10. Upgrade your pasta salad with Popeyes' Buttermilk Ranch
Popeyes' Buttermilk Ranch dressing is an excellent addition to any salad bowl, but it's also a versatile ingredient that can take your homemade pasta to the next level. Cook your favorite pasta per package instructions, then drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl along with your chosen salad ingredients. This could include diced vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, as well as protein options such as grilled chicken, bacon, or canned tuna.
Then, pour Popeyes' Buttermilk Ranch over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well coated. The creamy dressing adds a zesty flavor and velvety texture that complements the other ingredients in the salad. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This dish is ideal for potlucks, picnics, or as a simple lunch that you can prep in advance and enjoy throughout the week.
11. Build a burger bowl with Shake Shack Sauce
Shake Shack's signature Shack Sauce is the obvious accompaniment to a juicy burger and fries, but if you're looking for a lighter meal, why not use it to flavor a nutritious burger bowl instead? For the base of the bowl, choose a hearty grain, such as quinoa, couscous, or brown rice. Then, you'll want to fry up some lean ground beef with a little garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Once the cooked meat and grains are layered in the bowl, add your toppings. Some great options are sliced tomatoes, lettuce, diced red onions, pickles, avocado, and shredded cheese. Feel free to get creative with additional ingredients or substitutions based on your preferences or dietary requirements. For the game-changing final touch, drizzle that Shake Shack Sauce generously over the top. This will add a moreish burst and a sweet and creamy flavor, with just the right amount of spice. Your burger bowl won't feel complete without it!
12. Mix Arby's Horsey Sauce through mashed potatoes
If you're a fan of an Arby's roast beef sandwich, you might have an impressive stash of the iconic Horsey Sauce packets lying around. This creamy condiment features the bold and zingy flavor of horseradish, which makes for an unexpectedly delicious addition to mashed potatoes. Start by preparing your go-to mashed potato recipe. Whether you prefer it velvety smooth or with a bit of rustic texture, a buttery mash provides a savory base for the sharp flavor of Arby's Horsey Sauce.
Once the mashed potatoes are cooked to perfection, add a dollop of Arby's Horsey Sauce to the pot. Use a spoon or spatula to gently fold the sauce into the potatoes until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed — you may want to add a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor, or even some chopped fresh herbs for a pop of freshness. Serve them hot alongside your favorite main dish, such as roast chicken or grilled steak. You'll love the way the spicy kick of the Horsey Sauce adds a unique twist to this classic side.
13. Glaze chicken skewers with Raising Cane's Sauce
With its blend of sweet, savory, and mildly spicy flavors, Raising Cane's Sauce is another hugely popular takeout condiment. One creative way to utilize this delicious sauce is by turning it into a mouth-watering glaze for grilled chicken skewers.
Begin by marinating chunks of chicken breast in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to soak up all those flavors. While you wait, prepare the glaze by combining Raising Cane's Sauce with a touch of honey and a sprinkle of chili powder in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture on low, stirring constantly until it's smooth and well combined.
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto wooden skewers and place them on a preheated grill. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken skewers generously with the Raising Cane's Sauce glaze, allowing it to caramelize slightly on the grill. You can also add some extra sauce on the side for dipping.