If you’ve ever longed for that rich, smoky, and irresistibly comforting sauce that ties together every delicious bite of your enchiladas, then you’re in for a treat. This Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe is a game-changer — it’s vibrant with deep tomato flavors, a perfect blend of earthy spices, and a velvety texture that clings beautifully to every tortilla. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just diving into Mexican cuisine, this sauce brings authenticity and warmth to your plate with effortless ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe. Each item here plays an important role, from building the base to layering the rich, balanced flavors you crave. Simple yet essential, these staples come together to create a sauce that’s as comforting as it is versatile.
- Vegetable oil: Provides a smooth base and helps create the roux for thickening the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Works with the oil to form a silky roux that gives the sauce its signature thickness.
- Tomato passata (or tomato sauce): Brings a bright, fresh tomato flavor and gorgeous red color to the sauce.
- Chicken broth (or vegetable broth/water + bouillon): Adds depth and richness, making the sauce more savory and satisfying.
- Dried oregano: Offers a lovely herbaceous note that complements the smoky paprika.
- Cumin: Gives the sauce that distinct earthy warmth essential for traditional enchilada flavors.
- Paprika: Provides vibrant color along with subtle sweetness and smoky undertones.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle punch of savory garlic without overpowering the other spices.
- Onion powder: Adds mellow onion flavor, rounding out the sauce’s aromatic profile perfectly.
- Brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Optional extras – cayenne pepper or ground chipotle: Add these if you want to dial up the heat and smoky complexity.
How to Make Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Create the Roux
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about one minute. This step is crucial as it cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the roux that will give your enchilada sauce its velvety body.
Step 2: Add the Tomato Goodness and Broth
Next, pour in the tomato passata along with the chicken broth (or your chosen substitute). Whisk them together into your roux, ensuring no lumps remain. Bringing this mixture to a boil is key — it helps meld the flavors before simmering.
Step 3: Blend in the Spices
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar. Whisk everything together so that the spices evenly distribute. This spice blend is what transforms your sauce from simple tomato gravy into that unforgettable enchilada flavor.
Step 4: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, while watching it thicken to a luscious consistency that will cling nicely to your enchiladas. This slow simmer allows the flavors to intensify and marry beautifully.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. This step is all about tuning the sauce to your preference – a little extra salt can brighten the tomato, while pepper adds a subtle bite. If you want a touch of heat, now is the time to whisk in cayenne pepper or a pinch of ground chipotle.
How to Serve Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A platter of enchiladas topped with this classic sauce is perfect on its own, but a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some crumbled queso fresco adds fresh contrast and a hint of creaminess that makes every bite pop.
Side Dishes
Pair your saucy enchiladas with classic sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp green salad dressed with lime and avocado. These sides enhance the meal’s flavor and texture profile, making your dinner feel like a true fiesta.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t limit yourself to traditional enchiladas! Drizzle this sauce over baked potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even grilled chicken for a versatile flavor boost. You can also stir it into soups or use it as a dipping sauce for homemade tortilla chips.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using to bring it back to life.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, freezing is your friend! Pour the sauce into freezer-safe containers and keep it frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm your sauce gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its smooth consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent scorching, and add a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick.
FAQs
Can I make the Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube, and the sauce remains just as flavorful and comforting.
What is the difference between tomato passata and tomato sauce?
Tomato passata is a smooth, sieved tomato puree without seeds or skins, which results in a fresher flavor and velvety texture. Tomato sauce tends to be cooked and seasoned, but you can use either depending on availability.
How spicy is this sauce by default?
By default, the sauce is mild and warming with the earthy spices but not hot. Adding cayenne pepper or ground chipotle will kick up the heat if you prefer a spicier sauce.
Can I double the Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe?
Yes, this sauce scales easily. Just double the ingredients and cook it in a larger pan, keeping an eye on seasoning adjustments to suit your taste.
Is it possible to make this sauce gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry to achieve the same thickening effect without gluten.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Classic Enchilada Sauce Recipe is truly rewarding — it transforms simple ingredients into a sauce so rich and vibrant that it lifts any dish to new heights. Whether you’re crafting a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this sauce is a keeper in your culinary repertoire. Don’t hesitate to try it soon and enjoy the comforting flavors it brings to your table!
