Last Updated on August 24, 2025 by Casia Valdés
If you’re a fan of fast-food Tex-Mex favorites, you’re going to love this homemade Taco Bell Tostada. Crispy, fresh, and piled high with flavorful toppings, this easy recipe brings all the nostalgic flair of your favorite Taco Bell menu item—without the drive-thru. It’s a light, yet satisfying dish that’s great for lunch, dinner, or party platters. Even better, you can make it entirely with pantry staples and customize it to suit any taste preference or dietary need.
Tostadas offer a fun and versatile way to serve up bold flavors in an easy-to-eat, crunchy format. Whether you’re craving something spicy, cheesy, or creamy, this copycat recipe gives you the flexibility to make it your way—crispy tortilla base, creamy beans, zesty pico, and all your favorite toppings.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Crispy & Crunchy – Tostada shells add texture that tacos can’t match
-
Easy Assembly – A few simple layers and you’re done
-
Customizable – Add or skip toppings to make it your own
-
Faster Than Takeout – Ready in 20 minutes or less
-
Great for Groups – Make a tostada bar and let everyone build their own
Ingredients (Makes 8 Tostadas)
-
8 tostada shells
-
2½ cups refried beans (homemade or 2 x 14 oz canned)
-
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
½ cup pico de gallo (homemade or store-bought)
-
¼ cup guacamole (homemade or store-bought)
-
½ to 1 cup shredded lettuce
Optional Toppings
-
Sour cream
-
Chopped cilantro
-
Pickled jalapeños
-
Hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Refried Beans
If using homemade refried beans, prepare them in advance—Instant Pot refried beans are quick and flavorful. If using canned beans, warm them in a saucepan over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Stir frequently and season with a pinch of salt, garlic powder, or cumin to taste.
Step 2: Prep Toppings
While beans warm up, get your other ingredients ready. Shred the cheese, chop the lettuce, make or open the pico de gallo, guacamole, and prepare any optional toppings like sour cream, hot sauce, or chopped cilantro.
Step 3: Layer the Tostadas
Spread a generous spoonful of refried beans over each tostada shell. Leave about ½-inch border around the edges to prevent spilling. Sprinkle each with about a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Add Fresh Flavors
Spoon on pico de gallo and guacamole over the beans and cheese. Add any optional toppings you like such as pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Step 5: Top with Lettuce & Serve
Finish each tostada with a handful of shredded lettuce and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve immediately while the tostada shells are crisp and the toppings are fresh.
Tips for Success
-
Crispy Shells: Bake your tostada shells for 5 minutes at 375°F if they’ve been sitting out to ensure maximum crunch.
-
Warm Ingredients First: Keep beans warm for easier spreading and better contrast with cool toppings.
-
Serve Immediately: Assemble just before serving so the tostadas stay crisp.
-
Prep Bar Style: Set up all components separately and let guests build their own tostadas.
-
Avoid Overloading: Tostadas are flat and prone to breaking, so layer lightly for easier eating.
Variations
-
Protein Boost: Add seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
-
Cheese Lovers: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, queso fresco, or a Mexican blend.
-
Veggie Lovers: Add grilled veggies like corn, bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms.
-
Vegan-Friendly: Use vegan refried beans, plant-based cheese, and dairy-free sour cream.
-
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha, jalapeño slices, or a sprinkle of cayenne for more heat.
Make-Ahead & Storage
-
Beans: Can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
-
Toppings: Chop veggies and prepare sauces in advance.
-
Tostada Shells: Store in an airtight container to keep crisp.
-
Assembly Tip: Only assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best kind of tostada shell?
Store-bought shells are fine for ease, but you can also make your own by baking or frying corn tortillas until crisp.
Can I use other beans?
Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans mashed with seasonings work great as alternatives.
Are tostadas gluten-free?
If made with corn tortillas, yes. Always double-check packaging to be safe.
Can these be made in advance?
The components can be prepped ahead, but assemble just before eating to avoid sogginess.
Can kids make their own?
Yes! Tostadas are fun for kids to customize. Just keep the toppings easy and not too piled up.
Final Thoughts
Taco Bell’s classic tostada may be gone from menus, but you can bring it back to life in your own kitchen with this fun, flavorful recipe. It’s an easy, low-effort meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or satisfaction. From the crispy tostada base to the creamy beans and fresh toppings, every bite delivers texture and bold flavor. Whether you serve them as a meal or part of a build-your-own taco night, these tostadas are guaranteed to please.
Taco Bell Tostada
Ingredients
Method
- If using homemade refried beans, prepare them in advance—Instant Pot refried beans are quick and flavorful. If using canned beans, warm them in a saucepan over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Stir frequently and season with a pinch of salt, garlic powder, or cumin to taste.
- While beans warm up, get your other ingredients ready. Shred the cheese, chop the lettuce, make or open the pico de gallo, guacamole, and prepare any optional toppings like sour cream, hot sauce, or chopped cilantro.
- Spread a generous spoonful of refried beans over each tostada shell. Leave about ½-inch border around the edges to prevent spilling. Sprinkle each with about a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spoon on pico de gallo and guacamole over the beans and cheese. Add any optional toppings you like such as pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Finish each tostada with a handful of shredded lettuce and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve immediately while the tostada shells are crisp and the toppings are fresh.
