Homemade tostadas are incredibly satisfying and easy to make. These tostadas are generously loaded with refried beans, savory beef, and a medley of the finest tostada toppings. Serve your tostadas with some Mexican Street Corn and Taco Soup for an unforgettable Mexican-inspired meal.
What Exactly Is a Tostada?
A tostada (pronounced tuh-staa-duh) is a flat, crunchy tortilla piled high with tantalizing taco toppings. The word “tostada” translates to “toasted” and refers to the crispy tortilla that’s either toasted or deep-fried before being adorned with your favorite toppings.
Tostadas are beloved in Mexico and other Latin American regions, where they’re used as a base for various dishes. In Mexico, tostadas are often served with fresh proteins or enjoyed as snacks or sides to complement dishes like pozole or soup, especially Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Crafting Tostada Shells
You have the option to purchase pre-made crunchy “tostadas” or make your own. To create tostada shells, you can either bake or fry them. We recommend baking for a healthier yet equally crispy alternative. It’s a straightforward process:
- Coat the Tortillas: Spray the tortillas with cooking spray or lightly brush them with oil.
- Bake the Tortillas: Lay the tortillas flat on a baking sheet and bake at 415°F, flipping them halfway through. Continue baking until they become crispy and golden.
Assembling Delicious Tostadas
Making tostadas is a quick and easy process. Preparing your toppings in advance streamlines the experience. Follow these simple steps to create your perfect tostadas:
- Bake Tostada Shells: Refer to the easy instructions above to make the shells.
- Prepare the Taco Meat: Cook the lean ground beef in a skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with garlic powder, taco seasoning, and salt to taste. Add the diced onion and cook until the onion is soft, translucent, and the beef is thoroughly cooked.
- Prep the Toppings: Heat the refried beans either on the stove or in the microwave. Chop and prepare the remaining tostada toppings.
- Serve: Start by spreading a layer of warm refried beans on the tostada shell, add the seasoned ground beef, and then finish with the remaining toppings before serving.
Pro Tip: Start with a layer of refried beans to help the other toppings adhere to the tostada.
Tantalizing Tostada Toppings
When it comes to tostada toppings, the possibilities are endless. You can use both hot and cold ingredients. Our recipe includes some of our favorites, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand or prefer. Here are some top choices:
- Iceberg Lettuce
- Avocados
- Tomatoes
- Cilantro
- Cheese (cotija or queso fresco)
- Guacamole
- Pico de Gallo
- Lime wedges for that zesty touch
Common Questions
What Sets a Tostada Apart from a Tortilla?
A tostada is made from a tortilla that’s been baked or fried to achieve a golden, crispy, and crunchy texture. It’s similar to a tortilla chip, but a tostada uses the whole tortilla instead of triangular chips.
How Does a Tostada Differ from a Taco?
A tostada is flat and served on a crispy tortilla shell, while tacos are typically made with soft corn or flour tortillas. The toppings used are similar for both tacos and tostadas. Essentially, a tostada is an open-faced, crispy taco.
