Pin it
Want a simple DIY Mexican family dinner? My family goes crazy for these tostadas! They start with a crunchy base you make at home, then get loaded with refried beans, cheese, and whatever else you love. They're perfect for switching up taco night - just lay out all the stuff and let everyone create their own!
What's So Great About Tostadas
Imagine these as tacos with the top off and extra crunch! I make mine starting with super crispy corn tortillas, then pile on hot beans, gooey cheese, and cool fresh toppings. They work with any protein you've got - fish, beef, or chicken!
How To Make The Ultimate Bite
- Start Here
- Every good tostada begins with a perfectly crunchy tortilla.
- First Layer
- You'll need a nice smear of beans - they actually help everything stick together!
- Pile It High
- Stack your creation with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Final Touch
- A handful of cilantro really brings everything together!
My Top Advice
Turn dinner into a party by creating a topping station - it's so fun when people can customize! For maximum crunch, don't build your tostadas until right before you eat them. I think they taste best when you've got something creamy, something crunchy, and something spicy all together!
Shortcuts You'll Love
Canned beans work great for this - just throw in some chili powder! When I'm in a hurry, I don't bother making shells from scratch. Need protein fast? Grab a rotisserie chicken, squeeze some lime on it, and you're done!
Pin it
Change Things Up
While grabbing stuff from the store works fine, you should try making your own tortillas and beans when you've got extra time! Freshly fried shells taste amazing, but the quick version with pre-made ones still hits the spot.
Other Tasty Options
Fan of seafood? Try your tostada with grilled fish or ceviche on top. Going meatless? Black beans and grilled veggies work perfectly. My kids can't get enough of breakfast tostadas with bacon and eggs. I sometimes combine sweet mango salsa with spicy chicken - it's absolutely delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why dry tortillas first?
Pre-drying helps tortillas fry more evenly and crispy.
- → How do I know oil is hot enough?
Tortilla should bubble immediately when added. If not, oil needs to heat more.
- → Can I use store-bought shells?
Yes, just warm briefly in the oven to restore crispness.
- → Why season lettuce?
Salt and vinegar add flavor that complements other toppings.
- → How do I eat them?
Pick up with both hands like pizza. Don't overload or they'll break.