If you have been craving a crunchy, flavorful Mexican treat that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable, this Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine crisp corn tortillas baked to golden perfection, layered with creamy refried beans, savory chicken or beef, melted cheese, and topped with fresh, vibrant veggies and creamy avocado. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or impressing friends with your culinary skills, these baked tostadas deliver that perfect balance of texture and taste with every bite. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to fried versions without skimping on flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe depends on simple yet essential ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. From the crunch of baked tortillas to the creamy beans and fresh, colorful toppings, every component plays a key role.
- 8 corn tortillas: The crispy foundation of the tostada, bringing authentic Mexican texture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the tortillas bake up crisp and golden without frying.
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans, warmed: Adds a creamy, hearty layer that balances the crunch.
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or ground beef (optional): Provides savory protein and an extra rich taste if desired.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully to hold the toppings in place with gooey goodness.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Offers fresh crunch and a cooling contrast to the warm beans and cheese.
- 1 tomato, diced: Juicy and colorful, perfect for freshness and mild acidity.
- ¼ cup chopped red onion: Adds a sharp bite and vibrant purple color to brighten the dish.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro: Gives authentic, aromatic herbal notes that elevate the tostadas.
- ½ cup sour cream or crema: Creamy and cooling, the perfect finishing touch to balance flavors.
- 1 avocado, sliced or mashed: Adds luscious creaminess and richness to every mouthful.
- Lime wedges for serving: Citrus brightness that brings all the flavors together with a zesty pop.
How to Make Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Crisp the Tortillas
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Then, lightly brush each side of your corn tortillas with olive oil—this is key to getting that perfect crunch without frying. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side. Don’t forget to flip them to the other side and bake an additional 4 to 5 minutes until they’re golden and crisp. This step gives you that ideal tostada base that’s sturdy enough to hold all your delicious toppings.
Step 2: Layer with Beans, Meat, and Cheese
Once your tortillas are crispy and ready, spread a generous layer of warm refried beans over each one. If you’re including meat, scatter the shredded chicken or ground beef evenly on top of the beans. Next, sprinkle a hearty cup of shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese over each tostada. Pop them back into the oven for about 5 minutes, just enough time to melt the cheese into a bubbly, irresistible blanket over your savory layers.
Step 3: Add Fresh and Creamy Toppings
Remove the tostadas carefully from the oven and get ready for the fun part—toppings! Pile on crisp shredded lettuce, juicy diced tomatoes, the bold kick of red onions, and the fragrant freshness of chopped cilantro. Finish by adding creamy slices or mashed avocado and a generous dollop of sour cream or crema. Don’t forget the lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over just before digging in—this touch of acidity truly brings everything alive.
How to Serve Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe with garnishes like pickled jalapeños, a drizzle of spicy salsa, or crunchy radish slices. These extras add layers of flavor and spice, allowing each person to make their tostada uniquely theirs.
Side Dishes
Serve these tostadas alongside refreshing Mexican classics like elote (Mexican street corn), black bean salad, or a simple cucumber-lime salad. These sides complement the tostadas beautifully, rounding out your meal with extra freshness and variety.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange your tostadas on a large platter family-style, layering toppings so everyone can customize as they please. Or, keep toppings separate in small bowls for a tasty tostada bar experience. Either way, presentation makes this recipe just as exciting as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the baked tortillas, beans, and cooked meat separately from fresh toppings to prevent sogginess. Keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving to maintain that wonderful crisp texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the bean and meat mixture in portioned containers for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before layering on freshly baked tortillas for quick weeknight tostadas.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat the bean and meat topping mixture in a microwave or on the stove until warm. Re-crisp tortillas by placing them in a hot oven for a few minutes. Assemble with fresh toppings right before eating for the best results.
FAQs
Can I make this Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and consider adding sautéed vegetables or extra beans to keep the flavor and protein content robust. The beans and cheese alone offer a satisfying vegetarian option.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
A classic shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend full of mild cheeses like Monterey Jack and queso quesadilla works beautifully, melting perfectly and complementing the other flavors.
How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, keep the tortillas crisp by baking them well beforehand and layering toppings shortly before serving. Also, storing beans and fresh veggies separately until ready to eat helps maintain that desired crunch.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
While you can, corn tortillas give you that authentic tostada crunch and flavor that flour tortillas don’t quite replicate. If you do use flour tortillas, make sure to bake them until very crispy to hold up properly.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making this Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe an excellent option for those avoiding gluten, just double-check your other ingredients for hidden gluten to be safe.
Final Thoughts
This Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, with that perfect crunch and fresh toppings that make every bite a joy. Do yourself a favor and try it out—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy Mexican flavors!
Print
Oven Baked Tostadas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 tostadas
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Oven Baked Tostadas recipe features crispy corn tortillas baked to perfection and topped with warm refried beans, shredded chicken or ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cilantro, avocado, and sour cream. Easy to prepare and customizable, this Mexican-inspired dish makes a delicious main course or appetizer.
Ingredients
Tortillas and Base
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans, warmed
Protein
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or ground beef (optional)
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 tomato, diced
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ cup sour cream or crema
- 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Tortillas: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly brush both sides of each corn tortilla with olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake Tortillas: Bake the tortillas for 4–5 minutes on one side, then flip and bake for another 4–5 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown.
- Assemble with Beans and Protein: Spread a layer of warm refried beans over each crispy tortilla. If using, add shredded chicken or ground beef on top of the beans.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese over each tostada. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Add Fresh Toppings: Remove the tostadas from the oven and top them with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, chopped red onion, cilantro, avocado slices or mashed avocado, and a dollop of sour cream or crema.
- Serve: Serve the tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, salsa, or pickled onions.
- For vegetarian tostadas, skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables or black beans instead.
