These Air Fryer Tostadas are a simple way to get a quick dinner on the table. This recipe uses flour tortillas, refried beans, shredded cheddar cheese, and your favorite toppings. Each tostada takes less than 10 minutes to make.
Goes great with my Ground Beef Queso Dip!
Looking to switch your taco Tuesday? Try these air fryer tostadas for a quick lunch or dinner the next time the Tex-Mex cravings hit.
Air frying is a great way to make foods crispy without having to deep fry them in loads of oil. It's healthier and just as delicious.
And the air fryer doesn't heat up the kitchen the way the oven does, so it's perfect on a hot summer day, which are right around the corner.
Why you'll love it
- Easy recipe the entire family will love. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
- Vegetarian option for Meatless Mondays or any time you're looking for something on the lighter side.
- Versatile dish that can be changed up by adding a variety of ingredients like rotisserie chicken, taco meat, and/or black beans.
If you love Tex Mex recipes like we do be sure to check out my entire Tex Mex category!
Ingredients
Scroll to the bottom of the post for precise amounts and printable recipe card.
Four tortillas - we think the flour tortillas make the perfect base for this recipe. You might like to use a corn tortilla instead. Pre-made tostada shells are also a great time saver.
Refried beans - use canned or homemade. Add your favorite spices if desired.
Shredded cheese - we like all kinds of shredded cheese like cheddar, Monterrey Jack, and Munster for this recipe. Another great idea is to use Cotija cheese or another Mexican variety like queso fresco.
Shredded lettuce - this topping is totally optional, but we just love how the crispy tortilla and the melty cheese contrast with the cool and crisp lettuce. We like iceberg lettuce, but you can use Romaine.
Black olives - this is my favorite ingredient that makes this air fryer tostada a classic.
Guacamole - you can use a homemade version, like my authentic guacamole recipe, or you can buy it pre-made. You can also dice or slice a fresh avocado.
Diced tomatoes, salsa made with canned tomatoes, taco sauce, pico de gallo, and sour cream - add as much or as little of these.
Equipment
Instructions
STEP ONE: Place one flour tortilla in the air fryer basket. You will need to weigh it down with a wire trivet because the hot air might flip it around and keep it from cooking evenly. If using small sized tortillas, be sure to place them in a single layer. Set the air fryer to 390 degrees F and air fry for 4 minutes, flipping halfway through.
STEP TWO: Add about ¼ cup of the refried beans to the top of the tortilla. Gently spread the beans evenly close to the edge. Top with shredded cheese evenly as well.
STEP THREE: Air fryer for another minute, or until the cheese is melted to your preference.
STEP FOUR: Carefully remove the tostada and add your favorite toppings.
Kitchen tips
- Serve whole or cut into triangles.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.
- Season refried beans with ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ⅛ teaspoon cumin, or a tablespoon of taco seasoning for added flavor.
- Top with shredded leftover chicken, taco meat, or diced steak for added protein.
Yes! You'll need to spray both sides of the corn tortilla with some cooking spray or brush with olive oil or avocado oil then cook at 390 degrees F until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
How to store
Store leftover ingredients in the refrigerator separately for 3 or 4 days. For best results cover tightly or use an airtight container.
Assembled tostadas will become soggy after time, so it's best to eat them right away.
Favorite Tex Mex condiments
- Abuelo's Copycat Green Tomatillo Salsa Tropical
- Chipotle Lime Crema
- Cilantro Garlic Sauce
- Avocado Ranch Dressing and Dip
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📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Tostadas
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas about 6 inches in diameter
- 1 cup refried beans pinto or black
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Optional toppings
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced black olives
- Salsa or pico de gallo
Instructions
- Place one flour tortilla in the air fryer basket. You will need to weigh it down with a wire trivet because the hot air might flip it around and keep it from cooking evenly. If using small sized tortillas, be sure to place them in a single layer. Set the air fryer to 390 degrees F and air fry for 4 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Add about ¼ cup of the refried beans to the top of the tortilla. Gently spread the beans evenly close to the edge. Top with about ¼ cup of shredded cheese evenly as well.
- Air fryer for another minute, or until the cheese is melted to your preference.
- Carefully remove the tostada and add your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Serve whole or cut into triangles.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.
- Season refried beans with ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ⅛ teaspoon cumin, or a tablespoon of taco seasoning for added flavor.
- Top with shredded leftover chicken for added protein.
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