Homemade Enchiladas Sauce Recipe

BySoha

A perfectly balanced enchilada sauce is the soul of any enchilada dish. Making it from scratch allows you to control flavor, heat, and richness, resulting in a sauce that elevates your beef enchiladas to restaurant-quality. This recipe delivers a rich, vibrant red sauce with layers of smokiness, tang, and subtle heat that perfectly complement tender, spiced beef.

Ingredients List

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Step-by-Step Instructions

enchiladas sauce
Make the Roux

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden, creating a roux to thicken the sauce.

Build the Spice Base

Add chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.

Incorporate Liquids

Gradually whisk in beef or chicken broth, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Stir in tomato sauce, salt, and sugar.

Simmer to Develop Flavor

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and fragrant. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cook Time

Total: 20 minutes
Prep: 5 minutes
Bake: 0 minutes

Servings

Makes approximately 2 cups

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 80
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Sodium: 350mg

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently on the stovetop before using. Can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Suggestions

Use this homemade enchilada sauce for beef, chicken, or vegetarian enchiladas. It also works well as a topping for tacos, burritos, or even nachos.

Seasonal Relevance

This sauce is versatile year-round and adds a warm, comforting touch to dishes in cooler months while enhancing fresh, bold flavors during summer gatherings.

Conclusion

Homemade Enchiladas Sauce Recipe transforms ordinary enchiladas into a vibrant, flavor-packed dish. By toasting spices and simmering with care, you achieve a balanced, rich, and slightly smoky sauce that elevates your meals effortlessly.

Homemade Enchiladas Sauce Recipe
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Homemade Enchiladas Sauce Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

2

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories

180

kcal
Total time

20

minutes

This Homemade Enchiladas Sauce is rich, vibrant, and perfectly balanced, crafted to elevate any enchilada dish. Made from scratch with toasted spices and simmered tomato base, it delivers smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors that transform beef, chicken, or vegetarian enchiladas into restaurant-quality meals.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 3 tablespoons chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

  • 2 cups beef or chicken broth

  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

  • ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)

Directions

  • Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
  • Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Toast spices for 30 seconds.
  • Gradually whisk in broth, ensuring the sauce remains smooth.
  • Add tomato sauce, salt, and sugar, stirring to combine.
  • Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened and aromatic.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before using in enchiladas.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • This sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze in portions for up to 3 months for easy future use.
  • Adjust cayenne for desired spice level.
  • Works well with beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetable enchiladas.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld.

Is this sauce spicy?
It has mild heat, but you can adjust cayenne pepper to your preference for more kick.

Can I use this sauce for enchiladas other than beef?
Absolutely. It complements chicken, cheese, or vegetable enchiladas beautifully.

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