If you’ve ever wished for a homemade sauce that packs all the authentic flavors of a Mexican favorite without any fuss, then you’re in for a treat with this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe. It’s vibrant, smoky, and has just the right kick to bring your enchiladas to life, all while being incredibly simple to whip up in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this sauce will quickly become your go-to secret weapon for elevating not only enchiladas but a variety of dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each adding a layer of depth, color, or warmth. You don’t need a pantry full of exotic spices—just a handful of staples that come together effortlessly for delicious results.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Creates a smooth base and brings a subtle richness to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce and gives it that perfect silky texture.
- 3 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice delivering the signature deep red color and smoky heat.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy, warm touch that’s quintessential to Mexican flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts aroma and rounds out the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Contributes subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a slight herbal hint that complements the spices beautifully.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid that transforms the roux and spices into a luscious sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances the flavors and enhances every ingredient.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite without overpowering the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional): For those craving a richer, slightly tangy depth in their enchilada sauce.
How to Make Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil and Create the Roux
Start by warming the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once heated, stir in the flour and whisk constantly for one to two minutes. This roux forms the thickening base of your sauce, so pay attention—it should get a little golden but not brown or burnt.
Step 2: Stir in the Spices
Next, add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano directly into the roux. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until you can smell those amazing fragrant spices waking up. This step really unlocks the smoky, earthy heart of your sauce.
Step 3: Slowly Add the Broth
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth in gradually while whisking to avoid lumps. This process transforms the thick roux and spicy mixture into that silky sauce you crave. Keep whisking until everything is smoothly combined.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Stir in the salt, black pepper, and tomato paste if you’re using it. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for five to seven minutes until it thickens to that perfect consistency. The simmer helps all the flavors meld, resulting in a rich and vibrant sauce.
Step 5: Final Taste and Adjustments
Before finishing, give the sauce a taste test. If you feel like it needs a little more salt or spice, tweak it now. This easy step ensures your Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe is perfectly tailored to your palate.
How to Serve Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A drizzle of this sauce over your enchiladas deserves a few finishing touches. Fresh cilantro leaves add brightness, while a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar gives creamy contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a slice of avocado can also enhance the experience, balancing the sauce’s smoky heat.
Side Dishes
Pair your enchiladas smothered in this unforgettable sauce with classic sides like Mexican rice and refried beans to round out your meal. For a fresher touch, a crunchy cabbage slaw with lime vinaigrette creates a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe is incredibly versatile. Use it as a dipping sauce for chips, a flavor-packed addition to tacos, or drizzle it over grilled meats and roasted veggies for a Mexican-inspired flair. It’s a simple way to instantly upgrade everyday dishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to a week. This makes it easy to have your favorite enchilada sauce ready to go on busy weeknights or whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
If you want to keep the sauce longer, freezing is your best friend. Pour the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, leaving some room for expansion. It will maintain great flavor for up to three months, saving you time down the line.
Reheating
Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its smooth texture. Adding a splash of broth or water can help if it thickens too much. Avoid high heat to prevent scorching.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you’ll keep all the flavors intact while making it completely plant-based.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount of cornstarch), and this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe will stay just as thick and delicious.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely. The chili powder controls much of the heat, so you can reduce or increase it based on your preference. For milder sauce, start with less chili powder and add more gradually if desired.
What’s the purpose of tomato paste in this sauce?
Tomato paste adds richness and a slightly tangy sweetness that deepens the flavor, but it’s optional. If you prefer a lighter sauce with more focus on chili spices, feel free to leave it out.
How long does this sauce keep at room temperature?
For safety and the best taste, it’s best not to keep the sauce at room temperature for more than two hours. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Final Thoughts
Giving this Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe a try means welcoming a burst of authentic, vibrant flavor into your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s one of those wonderfully simple recipes that makes weekday dinners exciting and cozy. So grab those ingredients, stir up some magic, and watch how this sauce turns your meals into crowd-pleasers you’ll make again and again.
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Easy Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Easy Red Enchilada Sauce is a quick and flavorful homemade sauce perfect for enchiladas, tacos, or as a dipping sauce. Made with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and other spices, thickened with a roux and simmered to perfection, this sauce delivers rich Mexican-inspired flavors in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Enchilada Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat to prepare the base of the sauce.
- Make the roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes while whisking constantly to create a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add spices: Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano; stir for about 30 seconds until the spices are fragrant, infusing the roux with flavor.
- Incorporate broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps form to maintain a smooth sauce texture.
- Season and simmer: Stir in salt, black pepper, and tomato paste if using. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to the desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices according to your preference.
- Serve or store: Use the sauce immediately for your enchiladas or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- You can use either chicken or vegetable broth depending on your dietary preference.
- Tomato paste is optional but adds a richer, deeper flavor to the sauce.
- Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This sauce is versatile and can be used in enchiladas, tacos, burritos, or as a dipping sauce.
- Adjust the chili powder amount if you prefer a milder or spicier sauce.
