Amazing Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe You’ll Love

Nothing beats the rich, robust flavor of a homemade enchilada sauce recipe. Imagine pouring this vibrant red sauce over warm tortillas, filling them with savory goodness, and watching it bubble in the oven. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation.

Enchilada sauce is not just a sauce; it’s a culinary hug served on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This delightful dish is versatile enough to elevate any meal, whether you’re hosting a taco night or simply craving something deliciously spicy.

Family and friends always rave about this sauce during our fiesta nights; I still remember the compliments rolling in like a taco truck at a street fair.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Canned Tomato Sauce: Use quality tomato sauce for a rich base; organic options often taste fresher.

• Chili Powder: Choose between mild and hot chili powder based on your spice tolerance; it brings depth to the sauce.

• Ground Cumin: This spice adds an earthy flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully; fresh cumin seeds are even better.

• Garlic Powder: A must for that savory kick; it enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.

• Onion Powder: For sweetness and depth, onion powder melds perfectly with the other spices.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Water or Vegetable Broth: Use water for simplicity or broth for added flavor; both help achieve your desired consistency.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients: First things first, gather all your ingredients on the counter. It’s much easier to whip up this sauce when you have everything within arm’s reach.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended—this will be your spice mix!

Add Tomato Sauce and Liquid: Pour in canned tomato sauce along with water or vegetable broth into the bowl with your dry mix. Stir until combined into a smooth mixture.

Heat It Up: Transfer the mixture to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally while bringing it to a gentle simmer—this should take about 5 minutes.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste your enchilada sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Perhaps you need more heat or salt? Don’t be shy!

Cool Down Before Using: Once satisfied with the flavor, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using it on your favorite dishes. It can also be stored for later use!

Now you’re ready to slather this enchilada sauce on anything from enchiladas to tacos! Enjoy every bite knowing you made this flavorful masterpiece yourself!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add tomatoes, spices, and simmer. This sequence enhances flavors and ensures a smooth sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap canned tomatoes for fresh ones or add extra chili for heat. Personalizing the sauce makes it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover enchilada sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Creating this enchilada sauce reminds me of family gatherings where everyone eagerly awaited my spicy creations, often asking for seconds!

FAQ

Can I use homemade tomatoes in this enchilada sauce recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes will add a bright flavor to your enchilada sauce.

How long does homemade enchilada sauce last in the fridge?

It typically lasts about one week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this enchilada sauce recipe?

Yes! Freezing enchilada sauce extends its life for up to three months without losing flavor.

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Homemade Enchilada Sauce

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Experience the vibrant, rich flavors of this homemade enchilada sauce that can elevate any meal! In just 30 minutes, you’ll create a delicious, versatile sauce perfect for drizzling over tacos or layering in enchiladas. The balance of spices and fresh ingredients will impress even the pickiest of eaters, making it a must-try for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 2 cups (8 servings) 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tsp chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients on your counter.
2. In a medium bowl, mix chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Add the canned tomato sauce and water or vegetable broth to the dry mix; stir until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and bring to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Taste your sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
• Calories: 40
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg