Discover the flavor and versatility of red enchilada sauce with our comprehensive list of tasty recipes, reliable products, and expert tips. This iconic Mexican condiment is renowned for its bold, spicy, and tangy taste, achieved through a harmonious blend of tomatoes, chiles, garlic, and zesty spices. While it’s often associated with traditional enchiladas, the possibilities don’t stop there.
Use red enchilada sauce to elevate tacos, chiles rellenos, tamales, or even as a creative pizza sauce alternative.
Red Enchilada Sauce Products To Buy
When it comes to selecting the best red enchilada sauce products, there are several great options available. Old El Paso is a well-known American grocery store choice that offers consistent flavor with its line of red enchilada sauces. For those looking for more authenticity, Las Palmas provides mild, medium, and hot options that capture the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine.
For a unique twist, Hatch red enchilada sauce from New Mexico’s famous Hatch chiles brings a distinct flavor profile to the table. Long-standing brand Rosarita has built a loyal following among cooks who swear by its quality ingredients and taste. Finally, La Victoria’s rich and tangy red enchilada sauce is a favorite among those who enjoy cooking up authentic Mexican dishes.
Tasty Recipes Using Red Enchilada Sauce
Cheesy Enchilada Rice Skillet
Imagine a dish that combines the flavors of an enchilada with the convenience of fried rice – this skillet recipe offers just that. With its adaptable nature, you can easily add your favorite ingredients, such as a variety of vegetables or grilled chicken for added protein, making it a perfect solution for using up leftovers or incorporating new flavors into your meal.
Cheese Enchiladas With Red Sauce
Indulge in the rich flavors of these delightful enchiladas, generously stuffed with melted cheese and smothered in a luscious homemade red enchilada sauce that’s simply irresistible. With its simplicity, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep solution – just freeze them for a future culinary delight.
Enchilada Rice
A savory fusion of flavors, this rice dish combines the richness of enchilada sauce with the natural sweetness of onions, beans, corn, and pepper. Salsa adds a tangy kick that complements the overall flavor profile. This versatile side dish pairs delightfully with beef, chicken, or fish, making it an excellent accompaniment to your favorite protein. Alternatively, add some extra protein to make it a satisfying standalone meal.
Simmered Chicken Breast
To prepare this mouth-watering chicken dish, you’ll need to start by seasoning and searing store-bought or leftover enchilada sauce. Simply coat the chicken tenderloins with your desired seasonings, then cook them until they’re nicely browned on both sides. Next, simmer the chicken in a rich and tangy enchilada sauce until it’s fully cooked through. Serve the chicken hot with a side of steaming veggies and fluffy rice, or use it as the star of the show in tacos.
Whatever your preference, this dish is sure to please!
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Inspired by the classic combination of flavors in traditional enchiladas, this Chicken Enchilada Casserole takes on a unique twist by substituting rolled corn tortillas with a layered approach. Similar to a lasagna, it stacks chicken breast, savory enchilada sauce, and melted Monterey Jack Cheese for a satisfying meal that’s as easy on the wallet as it is delicious. The absence of tedious rolling makes this casserole an attractive option for those seeking a flavorful yet low-fuss dinner.
Enchilada Egg Skillet
In a flash, you can create a mouthwatering Enchilada Egg Skillet that combines the rich flavors of enchilada sauce, crunchy tortillas, and fluffy eggs. With just 10 minutes of preparation time, this dish is perfect for busy mornings or quick weeknight meals. Take it to the next level by adding some creamy avocado, tangy cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an explosion of flavors.
Beef Enchilada Dip
In just 20 minutes, this scrumptious enchilada dip recipe brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, cream cheese, and savory enchilada sauce. With its impressive ease of preparation and make-ahead capabilities, it’s the perfect choice for a party or gathering, offering an irresistible combination that will leave your guests craving more.
Loaded Smothered Beef Burritos
Savory and satisfying, this classic Mexican dish is a staple of comfort food. At its core are tender ground beef seasoned with a blend of spices, partnered with refried beans, fluffy rice, and melted cheese. To take it to the next level, it’s smothered in rich enchilada sauce and an extra layer of cheese for added flavor and texture. Best of all, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal that can be frozen for later use.
Mexican Pizza
When your taste buds are divided between Italy’s rich culinary heritage and Mexico’s vibrant flavors, this innovative pizza recipe is the perfect compromise. To create this unique fusion, start by crisping up tortillas in oil until they’re golden brown. Next, assemble your pizza with your desired toppings and bake until the cheese is melted to perfection. Serve hot and enjoy the harmonious blend of Italian-Mexican flavors, whether you opt for a spicy salsa or savor it plain.
Mexican Chicken, Sweet Potato & Black Bean Skillet
This mouthwatering one-pot meal brings together the flavors of chicken, succulent sweet potatoes, and robust black beans, infused with the warmth of Mexican spices. A sprinkle of fragrant cilantro and creamy avocado adds a bright, refreshing dimension to this satisfying dish.
Poblano Enchilada Quiche
A culinary masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of poblano peppers with the comfort of a creamy quiche, Poblano Enchilada Quiche is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The process begins by whisking together the essential ingredients, which are then elevated by the addition of crispy fried poblano peppers. Once combined, the mixture takes its final form in the oven, where it emerges as a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Chicken Enchilada Soup
A versatile and comforting soup, this recipe can be adapted to suit various tastes and textures. Whether cooked on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, it’s a perfect solution for chilly days. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to accommodate different chicken cuts or leftover ingredients, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Enchilada Stuffed Peppers
Imagine a culinary masterpiece that brings together the ultimate enchilada experience. By searing a medley of flavors in a skillet and then carefully packing them into crispy, succulent bell peppers, this innovative dish elevates traditional enchiladas to new heights. The peppers are then baked to perfection, emerging golden brown with a melted cheese crust that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
One Pot Enchilada Pasta
Savoring simplicity, this 30-minute recipe masterfully combines ease and indulgence. By cooking pasta directly in the sauce, the need for additional cleanup is significantly reduced, freeing up more time to focus on the real treat – a rich, gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese that crowns the dish.
Enchilada Meatballs
Indulge in the rich flavors of these slow-cooked meatballs, infused with the savory essence of enchilada sauce and Rotel, before being crowned with a generous sprinkle of cheese. This mouthwatering dish can be enjoyed as a satisfying meal served over a bed of fluffy rice or transformed into a delightful appetizer experience when paired with toothpicks, perfect for social gatherings.
Breakfast Enchiladas
Imagine a morning staple taken to the next level – that’s exactly what this innovative recipe delivers. By combining fluffy scrambled eggs smothered in melted cheese with savory breakfast sausage, all wrapped up in crispy corn tortillas and finished with a rich, tangy red enchilada sauce and an extra layer of gooey cheese, you’ll be treated to a breakfast experience like no other.
Tortilla Chip Enchiladas
This hearty casserole combines the bold flavors of beef or chicken, enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips for a satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Simply start by browning the meat, then add in a blend of savory ingredients including salsa, chilies, and cumin. Next, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with a layer of tortilla chips and enchilada sauce, followed by a generous sprinkling of melted cheese.
Let it bake until golden brown and bubbly, and you’ll be left with a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Enchiladas With Tofu & Black Beans
By putting a creative twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe transforms the classic dish into a nutritious and mouth-watering sensation. A harmonious blend of tofu, black beans, spinach, and red bell pepper provides the foundation for a scrumptious filling, while a rich homemade red sauce brings everything together to create a truly comforting and flavorful experience.
Enchilada Stuffed Mushrooms
Imagine a culinary delight that harmoniously blends the vibrant essence of Mexico with the rich, earthy undertones of mushrooms. This mouthwatering recipe brings together two seemingly disparate flavors to create a truly unique and satisfying dish. By hollowing out tender mushroom caps and filling them with a savory enchilada sauce, we add an extra layer of complexity to the classic quesadilla.
The finishing touch is a generous sprinkling of melted cheese, which bubbles up golden brown as it bakes in the oven.
Mexican Enchilada Frittata With Chicken
With the fusion of Mexican flavors, this frittata boasts a unique charm. A blend of spices gives the dish its distinctive taste, while the crumbled Cotija cheese adds a delightful tanginess. The freshness of chopped cilantro and the rich flavor of authentic enchilada sauce bring depth to each bite. This brunch option not only satisfies your morning cravings but also maintains its delectable profile even when enjoyed the following day, making it an excellent choice for everyday indulgence.
Chicken Enchilada Grilled Cheese Sandwich
In a delightful fusion of Mexican and American culinary traditions, this innovative sandwich brings together the richness of grilled cheese with the bold flavors of Chicken Enchilada Grilled Cheese Sandwich. The star of the show is succulent chicken paired with creamy enchilada sauce and melted Monterey Jack cheese, all nestled within the tangy foundation of sourdough bread.
Enchilada Tacos
The flavor profile of these tacos is characterized by a harmonious blend of contrasting textures. The sour cream contributes a rich, creamy element, while the melted cheese adds a velvety smoothness. Meanwhile, the varied toppings provide an engaging array of sensations, from crunchy to tender. As if this weren’t enough, the tangy and spicy kick of the enchilada sauce elevates the overall taste experience, infusing the dish with depth and complexity.
Mexican Lasagna
This mouthwatering Mexican Lasagna is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. By combining the familiar flavors of tortillas, ground beef seasoned with taco flair, melted cheese, rich enchilada sauce, and a dollop of creamy sour cream, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for something new or just need a quick fix, this Mexican Lasagna is sure to hit the spot.
Enchilada Turkey Burgers
Savoring each bite, you’ll experience a delightful harmony of contrasting flavors in these innovative burgers. The richness of melted Mexican cheese atop juicy patties, served on soft buns, elevates the classic burger to new heights.
Enchilada Pasta Salad
Savoring this enchilada pasta salad, you can easily make it your go-to accompaniment or even the star of the show. The rich, velvety enchilada sauce brings a deep smokiness to the table, cleverly balanced by the creamy zest of sour cream and the bright, citrusy note from lime. And just when you think it’s all about the smooth flavors, the jalapenos add a satisfying kick that leaves you craving more.
Tips For Using Red Enchilada Sauce
When incorporating red enchilada sauce into your recipes, whether it’s for enchiladas, tacos, casseroles, or soups, consider these expert tips to elevate your dishes:
Select high-quality ingredients. Opt for a reputable store-bought or homemade red enchilada sauce.
Adjust flavors to your liking. Add a dash of Tex-Mex spices, hot sauce like Cholula, or bold Cajun blends like Tony Cacherre’s to taste.
Achieve balanced flavors by layering sauce between filling and tortillas.
Transform meats into glazes. Brush the sauce on grilled or roasted meats to create a rich, caramelized coating.
Solve consistency issues by diluting thick sauces with broth for the perfect consistency.
Unlock deeper flavors through simmering. Let your dishes cook slowly to develop rich, complex flavors.
Pair complementary ingredients. Combine the sauce with cheese, beans, and cilantro for harmonious flavor profiles.
Preserve leftovers properly.
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.
The bottom line
Red enchilada sauce is a versatile culinary force that has transcended its traditional role in enchiladas. Its Mexican roots have spawned a multitude of creative applications, ranging from tacos and casseroles to dips, salads, and beyond. The sauce’s capacity to imbue dishes with robust, fiery flavor has cemented its status as a treasured staple in kitchens globally, demonstrating that this iconic condiment is far more than just a one-dimensional utility player.
