Best-Ever Mexican Tostadas

Mexican tostadas are a vibrant, crispy, and satisfying dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Built on a golden-fried or baked tortilla base, tostadas are layered with refried beans, savory meats or vegetables, fresh toppings, and a drizzle of salsa or crema. They’re endlessly customizable and bring big flavor to the table — whether served as a snack, lunch, or crowd-pleasing dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tostadas are quick, easy, and perfect for using up leftovers. The crispy tortilla base gives you all the satisfaction of a taco — just flat and layered instead of folded. With endless topping options and quick assembly, they’re a perfect DIY meal for family dinners, parties, or weeknight meals. Plus, they deliver the ideal mix of crunchy, creamy, spicy, and fresh in every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

For the tostadas:

• Corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)

For the base and toppings:

• Refried beans (canned or homemade)
• Shredded cooked chicken, beef, or pork (or keep it vegetarian)
• Shredded lettuce or cabbage
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped onion (white or red)
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Queso fresco or crumbled cotija cheese
• Mexican crema or sour cream
• Salsa or hot sauce
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges (for garnish)

directions

1. Prepare the tostada shells:
   • To fry: Heat ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry tortillas one at a time until golden and crispy, about 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt.
   • To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush tortillas lightly with oil or spray both sides with cooking spray. Bake for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
2. Warm the refried beans in a saucepan or microwave and season if needed.
3. Assemble the tostadas:
   • Spread a layer of refried beans over each crispy tortilla.
   • Top with shredded meat or veggies, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, avocado, cheese, crema, and salsa.
   • Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Makes 8 tostadas
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use beans, grilled vegetables, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Seafood tostadas: Top with shrimp ceviche or spicy grilled fish.
• Breakfast version: Add refried beans, scrambled eggs, and salsa.
• Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy chorizo.
• Sweet corn layer: Add roasted corn or elote-style toppings for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Tostadas are best assembled fresh. Store components separately in airtight containers: tostada shells at room temperature, and toppings in the refrigerator. Reheat beans and meat as needed. Assembled tostadas do not store well, as the shells will soften.

FAQs

What is a tostada?

A tostada is a flat, crispy tortilla topped with beans, meat, vegetables, cheese, and other garnishes.

Can I use store-bought tostada shells?

Yes, they’re convenient and save time. Just warm slightly before using for best texture.

What’s the best tortilla for tostadas?

Corn tortillas are traditional and hold up better than flour tortillas when fried or baked.

How do I keep tostadas from getting soggy?

Spread beans directly onto the crispy tortilla to create a barrier between the tortilla and juicy toppings.

Can I make the tostada shells ahead of time?

Yes, homemade tostada shells can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Are tostadas gluten-free?

Yes, if you use corn tortillas and ensure all toppings are gluten-free.

Can I bake instead of fry the tortillas?

Absolutely — baking is healthier and still gives a great crisp texture.

Can I freeze tostada shells?

It’s best to store them at room temperature. Freezing can affect texture and crispness.

What cheese works best?

Queso fresco, cotija, or shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack are all great options.

What meats are best for tostadas?

Shredded chicken, beef barbacoa, carnitas, or ground beef are classic choices.

Conclusion

Tostadas are the ultimate customizable Mexican dish — crunchy, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you load them up with meats, veggies, or keep them simple with beans and cheese, they’re a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion. Fast to prepare and fun to eat, these best-ever Mexican tostadas belong in your regular rotation.

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