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Top-down view of enchiladas with green sauce and red salsa on a rustic wooden table.

Smoky red chili sauce from scratch

Enchilada Sauce Homemade

Enchilada Sauce Homemade

20 minEasy

Prep Time

5 min

Cook Time

15 min

Total Time

20 min

Servings

6

2.5 cups

Difficulty

Easy

Cost

Budget

$

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Enchilada Sauce Homemade

Smoky red chili sauce from scratch

A smooth, smoky red enchilada sauce made from toasted chili powder and simple pantry staples. This homemade version has deeper, cleaner flavors than anything from a can.

5m

Prep Time

15m

Cook Time

20m

Total Time

6

Servings

Easy

Difficulty

Budget $

Cost

Mexican CuisineSide DishVeganDairy-Free
Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen

January 11, 2024(Updated April 13, 2026)

Homemade enchilada sauce takes just 15 minutes and relies on ingredients you probably already have. Toasting the chili powder in oil blooms its flavor for a richer, more complex sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

Blooming chili powder and cumin in hot oil extracts their fat-soluble flavors for maximum impact. A small amount of flour thickens the sauce to the perfect coating consistency.

Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to make a roux.

  2. 2

    Add chili powder and cumin, whisking constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Whisk in tomato paste until combined, then slowly pour in broth while whisking.

  4. 4

    Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

  5. 5

    Season with salt, a pinch of sugar, and a splash of vinegar. Strain if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Ways to Serve This Dish

  • Serve with warm corn tortillas and fresh lime wedges

  • Top with crumbled queso fresco and sliced avocado

  • Pair with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans

Substitutions

Vegetable brothChicken broth

Richer flavor for non-vegetarian version

All-purpose flourMasa harina

More authentic and gluten-free

Tips & Storage

Pro Tips

  • Use a good-quality chili powder—it is the star of this sauce.

  • Add a teaspoon of oregano and a pinch of garlic powder for extra depth.

Storage

Refrigerate for up to 1 week. Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm over medium-low heat, whisking in a splash of water if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (0mg) · 6 servings

Calories55
LowModerateHigh

A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet

Protein1g
Carbohydrates3g
Fat5g
Fiber380mg
Sugar1g
Sodium1g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to taste.
Is this red or green enchilada sauce?
This is red. Green uses tomatillos and green chilies.

Explore More

More Mexican RecipesMore Side DishVegan RecipesDairy-Free RecipesStovetop Recipes
Sarah Chen

About Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.

View all recipes →

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