The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Unlock the secret to restaurant-quality enchiladas! This authentic enchilada sauce recipe is a family favorite, guaranteed to have plates licked clean. Perfect for your shrimp enchilada casserole (find the recipe elsewhere!), enchiladas verdes, or any dish craving a rich, flavorful salsa. Easy to make in just 25 minutes, this recipe is easily doubled or tripled for future use – store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer enjoyment!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 71.3 kcal
Protein 3g
Rating Be the first
The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce 55

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce

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How to Make The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a medium-high heat pan. Add 1 large onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste).
  2. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, 1 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup tomato paste, and 2 tablespoons of chili powder. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 6 weeks. Easily doubles or triples for future use!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

25 g

Sugar

27g

Fat

2g

Carbs

3g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce?

The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce takes about 35 minutes from start to finish — roughly 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce?

The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce has approximately 71.3 calories per serving, with about 3 g protein, 3 g carbohydrates and 5 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce?

The key ingredients for The Best Authentic Enchilada Sauce are Olive Oil, Onion, Jalapeno, Cinnamon, Oregano, White Sugar. See the full list with measurements above.

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