Homemade Enchilada Sauce: A Simple & Flavorful Staple for Busy Moms

If you’re a busy mom looking for an easy way to elevate dinner, homemade enchilada sauce is a must-have in your meal prep routine. Forget the store-bought versions loaded with preservatives—this rich, flavorful sauce comes together in minutes using pantry staples, and it can transform tacos, burritos, casseroles, and, of course, enchiladas!

Why Make Your Own Enchilada Sauce?

Store-bought sauces often contain unnecessary additives, excess sodium, and hidden sugars. Making it yourself means:

✔ Better flavor – Fresh, rich, and customizable to your taste.

✔ Healthier ingredients – No preservatives, just wholesome goodness.

✔ Budget-friendly – Made with basic ingredients you likely already have.

✔ Versatile – Use it for more than just enchiladas!

INGREDIENTS

  • 6 cups of chicken stock

  • 1 cup + 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 tablespoon cumin

  • 2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon oregano

  • 1 1/2 tablespoon salt

  • 6 tablespoon flour

  • 6 tablespoons chili powder

  • 6 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 27oz(762mL) green chiles canned

  • 6 tablespoons tahini

  • Pinch of cinnamon

DIRECTIONS

  1. Combine stock, tomato paste, cumin, garlic, salt and oregano in a bowl, set aside.

  2. Combine flour and chili powder in a bowl set aside.

  3. In a pan heat oil over medium-high heat, add onion, cook until golden brown. Add flour mixture whisking constantly for 1 minute.

  4. Add tomato paste mixture and keep whisking. Add green chiles with juices, pinch of cinnamon and stir often for 10 minutes.

  5. Remove from heat and stir in tahini. Blend if you like it smooth.

How to Store & Freeze

• Fridge: Store in a sealed jar for up to one week.

• Freezer: Freeze in portions in silicone molds or small freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Ways to Use Enchilada Sauce (Beyond Enchiladas!)

• Drizzle over burrito bowls

• Toss with shredded chicken for tacos

• Stir into chili or soups for extra depth

• Use as a base for Mexican-style pasta sauce

Make It a Freezer Meal!

Want to prep ahead? Pair this sauce with a batch of enchiladas for a freezer-friendly meal that’s ready to bake!

Try It & Share!

Give this homemade enchilada sauce a try and tag me @amandafriiscoaching on Instagram—I’d love to see how you use it in your meals!

Amanda Friis

Mom of 3 | IIN Certified Health Coach | Coaching Since 2013

Hi, I’m Amanda! As a busy mom of three, I know firsthand how overwhelming dinnertime can feel. That’s why I help moms simplify meal prep and planning—so you can spend less time stressing over meals and more time enjoying them with your family. With over a decade of coaching experience and a passion for healthy, practical solutions, I’ll show you how to make mealtime easier, save money, and bring more balance to your busy life.

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Easy Freezer-Friendly Enchiladas: A Busy Mom’s Lifesaver