Air Fryer Tostadas: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a great way to make tostadas, offering a healthier, less messy alternative to traditional frying methods. The process is simple: coat a tortilla with oil, place it in the air fryer, and cook until crispy. You can then add your desired toppings, such as refried beans, cheese, salsa, avocado, and more. This method is perfect for smaller batches and those looking for a quick, tasty meal.

How to make tostada shells in an air fryer

Ingredients

You will need corn tortillas and oil (olive, avocado, or grapeseed oil). You can also add salt to taste.

Method

• First, either spray or brush oil onto both sides of your tortilla. You can also sprinkle the tortilla with salt if you like.
• Place the tortilla in the air fryer basket.
• Air fry for 4-7 minutes at 350-390 degrees F, flipping halfway through.
• If you want to add refried beans and cheese, do so now, then air fry for another 2-4 minutes.
• Remove from the air fryer and add any other toppings you like.

Tips

• To prevent the tortilla from curling up, place something heat-safe on top to weigh it down.
• All air fryers cook differently, so watch the tortilla carefully to ensure it doesn't burn.
• If you are using store-bought tostada shells and want to heat them up in the air fryer, cook them for 2-3 minutes at 360 degrees F.

Oil and salt requirements for air fryer tostadas

Air fryer tostadas are a quick, easy, and tasty snack, appetiser, or meal. They are versatile and can be made to suit a gluten-free or vegan diet.

Oil

Air fryer tostadas require very little oil, making them a healthier option than deep-fried tostadas. The oil is necessary to ensure the tortillas do not become dry and brittle. You can brush or spray both sides of the tortillas with oil and rub it in. Olive oil, avocado oil, or a cooking spray can be used.

Salt

Salt is optional for air fryer tostadas. If desired, sprinkle salt on the tortilla after applying oil, or brush the tortilla with a thin layer of water and then sprinkle with salt.

Air Frying

Place the tortilla in the air fryer basket and cook for 6-7 minutes at 350°F, flipping halfway through. For a plain tostada shell, air fry for 5-6 minutes straight through.

Toppings

Tostadas can be topped with refried beans, cheese, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and more. If adding toppings, return the tostada to the air fryer for an additional 2-4 minutes at 350°F until the cheese is melted.

Tips

• Watch the tortilla carefully during cooking to ensure it doesn't burn.
• To prevent the tortilla from curling up, place something heat-safe on top to weigh it down.
• For salted tostada shells, brush with water and sprinkle with salt before baking or air frying.
• For chili lime tostada shells, squeeze lime juice over the tostada and sprinkle with Tajín or chili lime seasoning after cooking.

Air fryer temperature and timing for tostadas

Tostadas are a great dish to make in the air fryer, and they're so versatile! You can make them with or without meat, and there are a few different methods to try. The air fryer temperature and timing will depend on the method you choose, so let's go through the options.

Air Frying the Tortilla Shells

If you want to make crispy tortilla shells for your tostadas, the air fryer temperature should be set between 350°F and 400°F (or 198°C). The timing will vary depending on the source, but generally, you'll want to air fry the tortillas for around 6 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them, as all air fryers cook differently and you don't want your tortillas to burn.

Adding Beans and Meat

For the second step, if you're adding beans and meat, you have two options. You can either air fry the tortilla first and then add the toppings, or you can add the beans and meat to the tortilla and air fry it all together.

Option 1: Air Fry Tortilla First

If you choose to air fry the tortilla first, simply follow the instructions above to get a crispy shell. Then, add your desired amount of refried beans and cheese on top. Return the tostada to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes at 350°F.

Option 2: Air Fry Tortilla with Toppings

If you prefer to air fry the tortilla with the toppings, start by following the same instructions as above to prepare your tortilla. Then, add a layer of warm refried beans and meat to the tortilla. Set your air fryer to 360°F and air fry for 6 minutes.

Final Thoughts

No matter which method you choose, always remember to keep an eye on your tostadas while they're in the air fryer, as cooking times may vary. Additionally, if you're using store-bought tostada shells, you can simply heat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 360°F to warm them up before adding your desired toppings.

Tostada toppings and variations

Tostadas are a popular dish in Mexico and other parts of Latin America. The name "tostada" is derived from the Spanish word for "toasted," referring to the crispy tortilla base. While traditionally deep-fried, tostadas can be made healthier by baking or air frying the tortillas.

The tortilla base is just the beginning, as the real fun lies in the endless possibilities of toppings and variations. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Beans

Refried beans are a classic choice and act as a great base layer for other toppings to stick to. You can opt for canned refried beans or make your own from scratch. If you're feeling adventurous, try refried black beans or pureed pinto beans.

Proteins

Meat lovers can choose from ground beef, shredded chicken, pork carnitas, or steak. For a vegetarian option, try fried plantain bananas, tofu scramble, or even a chickpea "tuna" salad. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in shrimp, tilapia, or ceviche.

Cheeses

Cotija, queso fresco, Monterrey Jack, and Cheddar are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with what you have on hand. For an extra kick, try a chili cheddar or smoked cheese variety.

Vegetables

Avocados or guacamole, shredded lettuce, and chopped tomatoes are always a refreshing addition. For a colorful twist, try shredded purple cabbage instead of lettuce. If you're feeling adventurous, top it off with air-fried bell peppers or sliced jalapeños.

Sauces and Condiments

Salsa and pico de gallo are classic choices, but you can also add sour cream, hot sauce, or a squeeze of lime juice. For an extra creamy texture, try some guacamole or sliced olives.

Other Toppings

Cilantro, chopped onions, and Mexican street corn are all great additions. For a heartier meal, add some cooked rice or quinoa. You can even get creative with your tortilla base and cut them into mini tostadas for a fun party appetizer.

Remember, the beauty of tostadas lies in their versatility, so don't be afraid to mix and match toppings to create your perfect combination!

Storing and reheating tostadas

When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best option. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spread your tostada shells out on a baking sheet. Heat them for 3-4 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. You can also use a toaster or air fryer for 30-90 seconds, but avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy.

If you want to soften tortillas, you can wrap a stack of them in damp paper towels or a kitchen towel, then place them in a microwave-safe bag and microwave for about a minute, or until warm and flexible.

Now you know how to store and reheat, you can enjoy your tostadas again and again!

Frequently asked questions