If you’re craving that rich, tangy, and satisfyingly spicy flavor that only authentic enchilada sauce can deliver, you’re in the right place! This Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a vibrant sauce that will elevate your Mexican dishes from ordinary to unforgettable. Whether you’re layering your favorite enchiladas or drizzling over tacos and burritos, this sauce is a game changer that’s incredibly easy to whip up and always brings the fiesta to your kitchen table.

Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe is all about simplicity — each ingredient brings its own magic, whether it’s depth of flavor, a hint of spice, or that perfect velvety texture.

Olive oil (1 teaspoon): The base that helps gently sauté the garlic and unlock its aroma.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds a warm, fragrant kick that infuses the sauce with personality.
Reduced-sodium chicken broth (½ cup): Provides a savory foundation that keeps the sauce rich without being overpowering. Switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Tomato sauce (15 ounces): The heart of the sauce; its natural acidity balances spices beautifully and builds that classic enchilada flavor.
Chili powder (2 tablespoons): Delivers smoky heat and the signature red hue that enchiladas are known for.
Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): Introduces herbal notes that round out the spice with an earthy touch.
Cumin (2 teaspoons): Lends a warm, nutty undertone essential in Mexican cooking.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts savory depth and layers additional complexity.
Sea salt (½ teaspoon or to taste): Elevates all the natural flavors in perfect harmony.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): For a subtle peppery warmth that ties it all together.

How to Make Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Begin by heating your olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute — just until its fragrant aroma fills your kitchen and the garlic turns lightly golden. This step is crucial because it releases the garlic’s natural oils, building a foundation of flavor that your sauce will thank you for.

Step 2: Add Broth and Tomato Sauce

Next, pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth, if you prefer). Then, stir in the tomato sauce, which will give your enchilada sauce that signature tangy depth. The broth and tomato sauce together create a wonderful balance that keeps the sauce smooth and not too thick as it simmers.

Step 3: Season with Spices

Now it’s time to mix in the chili powder, dried oregano, cumin, onion powder, sea salt, and if you’re adding it, black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly until the spices are well combined. Each spice layer boosts the complexity and gives your sauce its authentic Mexican flavor profile.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to maintain that simmer for about 10 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to mingle beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly, making it luscious and ready to elevate any dish.

Step 5: Final Taste Test

Once your sauce has thickened, taste and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. Remember, seasoning after simmering is important because the flavors deepen as the sauce cooks. A little tweak here and there can turn a good sauce into an outstanding one!

How to Serve Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Top your enchiladas or dishes with fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco, and a dollop of sour cream to add brightness and creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the robust sauce.

Side Dishes

This Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe pairs excellently with fluffy Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp corn salad. The sauce’s vibrant flavor complements these sides while adding an extra kick of excitement to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t limit this sauce to just enchiladas! Use it as a dipping sauce for tortilla chips, a flavorful base for shakshuka, or drizzle over grilled vegetables. Its adaptability makes it perfect for experimenting and adding warmth to countless dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy that homemade taste throughout the week without extra effort.

Freezing

If you want to keep the sauce for longer, freezing is your friend! Pour it into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen enchilada sauce stays good for up to 3 months and thaws beautifully without losing flavor.

Reheating

To warm up your sauce, place it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. This gentle reheating revives the flavors and keeps the sauce silky smooth.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you have a delicious vegan Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe that’s just as flavorful and authentic.

How spicy is this sauce?

This sauce has a moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder. You can adjust the spice by choosing mild or hot chili powder, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra kick.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

While fresh tomatoes can be used, they require cooking down longer to achieve the right consistency and flavor depth. Using tomato sauce saves time and ensures that perfect balance for the sauce.

Is it necessary to sauté the garlic first?

Yes, sautéing the garlic releases its flavor more fully and prevents the raw sharpness that can occur if added directly to the sauce.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat your enchiladas but still pourable. If it gets too thick, adding a bit more broth will loosen it up nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe is one of those simple treasures that bring bold flavor and warmth to your table with minimal fuss. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever made enchiladas without it! So gather your ingredients, embrace the aroma of freshly sautéed garlic, and get ready to taste something truly special.