Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Have you ever been somewhere that was so full of taste so full of flavour, so rich, that it just tasted like you were somewhere else? That’s how I feel when making this Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce.

There’s just something about that ‘Oh, that turns a simple meal somewhere into a comforting, filling kind of hug from the inside’. Authentic Mexican enchilada sauce brings a deep smokiness to enchiladas, burritos, or drizzled over roasted veggies.

The problem with writing a good red enchilada sauce was not something I knew how to do. There’s much trial (and maybe even a few messy batches) here, but mostly I finally found the perfect balancing of flavors and it’s not as hard as you might think!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce

Made from simple, flavorful ingredients, this Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce is magical, especially homemade. It takes just a handful of ingredients and brings out all the deep, rich flavors that make it a worthy Mexican-inspired meal choice.

I really love that you can be pretty versatile with this red enchilada sauce. It’s good for enchiladas, and burritos, or for making casseroles or even sprinkling on rice and beans.

Instantly, it’s the type of sauce that just makes you think: oh, that’s the kind of sauce that you would find in a cozy family kitchen.

This recipe also skips any complicated techniques, making it accessible even for busy weeknights. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, filling your kitchen with the aroma of roasted chiles and warm spices.

Enjoying this Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce? You won’t want to miss our mouthwatering Tomahawk Steak and comforting Brown Sugar Meatloaf with Ketchup Glaze!

Ingredients Notes

This Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce comes together with just a few pantry staples, but each one brings out a unique depth of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive oil – A couple of tablespoons to give the sauce a silky texture. You can also use avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand.
• Flour – All-purpose flour thickens the sauce just right. For a gluten-free version, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Chili powder – This is the heart of any good red enchilada sauce. Look for high-quality chili powder, as it makes a big difference in flavor. If you like more heat, you could add a pinch of cayenne too.
• Ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy depth that gives the sauce its authentic Mexican taste.
• Garlic powder and onion powder – These two bring a mellow sweetness and a hint of savoriness to the sauce.
• Tomato paste – Gives the sauce a rich, tangy base. Canned tomato sauce works in a pinch, but you might need a little less water.
• Broth – Chicken broth works wonderfully for extra flavor, but veggie broth can make it vegetarian-friendly. Adjust the salt depending on how salty the broth is.
• Salt and pepper – Season to taste for the perfect balance.
• Dried oregano (optional) – Just a pinch adds a hint of herbal brightness to the sauce.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of homemade enchilada sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and far better than anything from a can!

How to Make This Homemade Enchilada Sauce

This is one of those things you never thought you could make yourself – but you can make it really easily – and the outcome is so worth it! Find out how to make this flavorful sauce in no time.

Step 1: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute. This quick roux helps thicken the sauce without adding lumps.

Step 2: Stir in 3 tablespoons of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin. Cook this spice mix with the flour and oil for another minute to deepen the flavor and bring out the spices’ aroma.

Step 3: Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, whisking it into the flour mixture. Gradually pour in 2 cups of broth (chicken or vegetable) while whisking to prevent lumps. The sauce will start to come together and get that classic red enchilada sauce look!

Step 4: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a pinch of dried oregano if you’d like a hint of herbal brightness. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. It will thicken up, so adjust the consistency with a bit more broth or water if it gets too thick.

Step 5: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a smooth, pourable consistency and that perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors.

And that’s it! Your homemade enchilada gravy is ready to be used right away or stored in the fridge for later.

Excited to make this Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce in your own kitchen? Find the full printable recipe just below!

Tips for Making the Best Enchilada Sauce

To get the most flavor out of your homemade enchilada sauce, try blooming the spices by cooking them with flour and oil. This extra step brings out that authentic Mexican taste.

Adjust the thickness by adding a little more broth if needed, especially if the sauce thickens as it cools.

For a richer red enchilada sauce, go for a high-quality chili powder and use a touch of tomato paste.

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Can I make this Enchilada Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This homemade enchilada sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, so you can make it ahead and have it ready when it’s time to cook.

Just store it in an airtight container, and give it a quick stir, or reheat it on the stove before using it to bring out that fresh, flavorful taste.

Love this Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce? Follow me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes and inspiration to spice up your kitchen!

Is there a way to make this enchilada sauce spicier?

If you love a bit of heat, you can easily adjust the spice level.

Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or even a few crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.

Smoked paprika also adds a smoky depth if you’re looking for extra warmth in this red enchilada sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Homemade Enchilada Sauce brings a wonderful depth to so many dishes!

Besides classic enchiladas, try drizzling it over burritos, breakfast tacos, or even a warm plate of rice and beans. For a fun twist, we sometimes use it as a dipping sauce for crispy taquitos or even pour a little over scrambled eggs.

When serving for a family gathering, I like to make a big batch of this sauce and set up a DIY taco or enchilada bar.

Pair it with fresh guacamole, salsa, and a cold glass of horchata for an extra special meal.