If you’ve ever craved that perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and slightly tangy flavors in your enchiladas, you’re going to absolutely adore this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe. It captures all the vibrant tastes of traditional Mexican cooking with minimal fuss, turning a handful of simple pantry staples into a luscious, deeply flavorful sauce. Whether you’re dressing up classic beef or chicken enchiladas, or adding a punch to your vegetarian dishes, this sauce is the comforting, authentic touch that makes every bite sing. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, making it a kitchen superstar for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients is key for this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe. Each one plays a starring role in creating a sauce that’s rich, smooth, and bursting with bold flavor, all while keeping things approachable and fuss-free.
- Vegetable oil: Helps create the roux and carries the spices to bring out their full flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to your desired luscious consistency.
- Chili powder: The heart of the sauce, providing depth and the signature red color.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory warmth that rounds out the flavors.
- Onion powder: Gives a gentle sweetness and complexity without overpowering.
- Ground cumin: Offers an earthy undertone that’s essential in Mexican cuisine.
- Dried oregano: Brings a touch of herbal brightness to complement the spices.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the flavors in every spoonful.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the base of the sauce, adding moisture and richness.
- Tomato paste (optional): Boosts the sauce’s body and adds a deeper, slightly tangy note.
How to Make Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Oil and Create a Roux
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook this mixture for about 1 minute. This roux will be the key to thickening your sauce and giving it that silky texture you love while also lightly toasting the flour for a rich base flavor.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices
Next, add 1/4 cup chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin, followed by 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk constantly for about 30 seconds to let the spices bloom and release their fragrances – this step infuses your sauce with that classic punch of Mexican flavor.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomato Paste
Slowly pour in 2 cups of broth (chicken or vegetable), whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. If you’re using tomato paste, stir in 1 tablespoon now to deepen the sauce’s richness. This liquid base balances the spices perfectly as it simmers down.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Bring your sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally while it thickens to the perfect consistency — slightly viscous, smooth, and ready to coat your enchiladas gloriously. Taste and adjust salt if needed; sometimes a little extra seasoning brings the whole thing home.
How to Serve Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
When serving your enchiladas with this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe, consider a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a dollop of creamy sour cream or guacamole, and some crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese on top. These garnishes bring freshness and creaminess, balancing the smoky depth of the sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Complement your enchiladas with sides like fluffy Mexican rice, refried or black beans, and some charred corn on the cob for a true fiesta. The hearty, comforting nature of the sauce pairs exceptionally well with these classic accompaniments, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Why stop at enchiladas? Use this sauce as a base for casseroles, drizzled over crispy roasted vegetables, or even as a flavorful dip for chips. You can even mix it into scrambled eggs or as a spicy topping for burgers — its versatility makes the Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe a pantry game-changer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This sauce holds up wonderfully in the fridge for up to one week. Keep it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to use it again, just give it a good stir or a gentle reheat to bring it back to its saucy goodness.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze your sauce in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Just be sure to leave some headspace as it expands, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This method helps maintain its smooth texture without drying it out. If it’s too thick, splash in a little broth or water to loosen to your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a completely vegan-friendly enchilada sauce that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
How spicy is this sauce?
The blend of chili powder used here gives a moderate heat level perfect for most taste buds, but you can easily add cayenne pepper or use hot chili powder to dial up the spice if you like it fiery.
Is tomato paste necessary?
Tomato paste is optional but highly recommended for added richness and depth. If you don’t have any on hand, the sauce will still be delicious without it.
Can I use this sauce for other dishes?
Definitely! This sauce works great beyond enchiladas — try it in casseroles, to top grilled meats, or even as a dipping sauce. It’s a versatile staple that can brighten many meals.
How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce should have a smooth, pourable consistency thick enough to coat enchiladas without running off. If it’s too thin, simply simmer a bit longer; if too thick, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe truly brings the heart and soul of Mexican cooking to your kitchen with minimal effort. The balance of spices, richness, and tang make it an instant favorite, and once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again. So, grab your ingredients, let those spices bloom, and bring a little fiesta to your table with this fantastic sauce!
