Best-Ever Mexican Tostadas

Mexican tostadas are a crunchy, flavor-packed favorite layered with beans, meat, fresh toppings, and creamy sauces. Whether you keep them classic or load them up with all your favorite fixings, these tostadas deliver bold, satisfying bites every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tostadas are all about layers of texture and flavor: crispy tortillas, creamy beans, savory toppings, and vibrant garnishes. They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and perfect for feeding a crowd or using up leftovers. Plus, they come together quickly—ideal for weeknight meals or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the tostadas:

• Corn tortillas (store-bought or homemade)
• Oil for frying or baking (vegetable or avocado oil)
• Salt

For the toppings (mix and match):

• Refried beans (pinto or black beans, canned or homemade)
• Shredded chicken, ground beef, carne asada, or carnitas
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar
• Mexican crema or sour cream
• Hot sauce or salsa
• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the tostada shells:
   • To fry: Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each tortilla for 30–60 seconds per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
   • To bake: Brush tortillas lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes per side, until crisp.
2. Heat your toppings: Warm the refried beans and meat of choice.
3. Assemble the tostadas:
   • Spread a layer of beans on each crispy tortilla.
   • Add your choice of meat, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cheese, and any other toppings.
   • Drizzle with crema, salsa, or hot sauce.
4. Serve immediately with lime wedges and enjoy while crisp.

Servings and timing

Makes 6–8 tostadas
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Tostadas: Skip the meat and add sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or corn.
• Breakfast Tostadas: Add scrambled eggs, refried beans, and salsa for a morning twist.
• Seafood Tostadas: Use shrimp, fish, or ceviche for a lighter version.
• Tostada Bar: Set out all the toppings buffet-style so everyone can build their own.
• Spicy Kick: Add pickled jalapeños, chipotle crema, or chili-lime seasoning.

storage/reheating

Store leftover components separately. Keep tostada shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate toppings like beans, meat, and veggies in sealed containers for up to 4 days. Reheat beans and meat on the stovetop or microwave before assembling. Assemble tostadas just before eating to maintain crunch.

FAQs

What is a tostada?

A tostada is a crispy, flat tortilla typically topped with beans, meat, and fresh toppings—like an open-faced taco.

Can I use store-bought tostada shells?

Yes, they work great and save time. Homemade shells have more flavor but both are delicious.

Can I use flour tortillas?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but you can use small flour tortillas—just know they’ll be more flexible and less crisp.

Are tostadas gluten-free?

Yes, if made with 100% corn tortillas and gluten-free toppings.

How do I keep tostadas from getting soggy?

Layer dry ingredients first (like beans and meat), and add wet ingredients (salsa, crema) right before serving.

Can I make the shells in an air fryer?

Yes! Brush with oil and air fry at 375°F for about 5 minutes per side or until crisp.

What’s the best meat for tostadas?

Shredded chicken, ground beef, or carnitas are all great. Leftovers work perfectly too.

What beans should I use?

Refried pinto or black beans are classic, but whole beans can also be mashed slightly for texture.

What goes on top of a tostada?

Anything you love! Beans, protein, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, cheese, crema, and salsa are all common.

Can I prep tostadas ahead of time?

You can prep all the components ahead, but assemble just before eating to keep the shells crispy.

Conclusion

Mexican tostadas are a quick, crunchy, and flavor-packed meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you pile them high with toppings or keep it simple, they deliver bold taste and satisfying crunch in every bite. Easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, they’re bound to become a go-to favorite.

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