Tostada pizza is the perfect fusion of two beloved dishes—crispy tostadas and cheesy pizza. This recipe brings together the crunch of a tostada shell with all the classic pizza toppings we love, creating a quick and satisfying meal that’s great for any occasion.
We love how easy it is to customize tostada pizzas with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s a fun twist that adds a new dimension to traditional pizza without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Tostada Pizza, we need to gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that bring both crispiness and bold tastes to the dish. Below is a detailed breakdown to make our Tostada Pizza irresistible.
For the Tostada Base
- 4 large corn tostadas (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt (a light sprinkle to enhance crunch)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (preferably low-sodium for control over salt)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove (minced finely)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Toppings
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 cup | Freshly shredded preferred for melting |
| Cooked ground beef | 1/2 cup | Seasoned with taco spices |
| Diced tomatoes | 1/2 cup | Fresh and ripe |
| Sliced black olives | 1/4 cup | Drained |
| Chopped green onions | 1/4 cup | For a sharp crispness |
| Corn kernels | 1/4 cup | Optional sweet crunch |
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro leaves (chopped finely)
- Sour cream (for drizzling)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional for extra kick)
- Lime wedges (to squeeze over before serving)
Equipment Needed
To make the Tostada Pizza perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. We recommend gathering these tools before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process and consistent results:
- Baking sheet
Choose a sturdy baking sheet to hold the tostadas securely while baking. A rimmed sheet works best to catch any melting cheese or toppings that may fall.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Pastry brush
Use a pastry brush for evenly applying olive oil to the tostada shells. This step adds extra crispiness and flavor.
- Mixing bowls
Multiple bowls help us keep ingredients organized for the sauce, seasoned beef, and toppings. Use medium-sized bowls for easy stirring and combining.
- Measuring spoons and cups
Accurate measuring spoons and cups are vital for balancing flavors in the sauce and seasoning spices.
- Skillet or frying pan
We use a skillet to cook the ground beef with taco spices thoroughly before adding it to the tostada.
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Handy for stirring the beef and preventing it from sticking or burning during cooking.
- Grater
A grater is useful for shredding fresh mozzarella cheese if not using pre-shredded options.
- Oven or toaster oven
Baking the assembled tostadas at a high temperature ensures the cheese melts beautifully and the shells stay crisp.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Baking sheet | Holds tostadas for baking | Rimmed sheet preferred |
| Parchment paper | Prevents sticking and easy cleanup | Can substitute silicone mat |
| Pastry brush | Applies olive oil evenly | For crispiness |
| Mixing bowls | Organizes ingredients | Multiple bowls recommended |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Measures ingredients accurately | Ensures flavor balance |
| Skillet/frying pan | Cooks seasoned ground beef | Medium heat recommended |
| Spatula/wooden spoon | Stirring and mixing | Avoids burning |
| Grater | Shreds cheese | Fresh mozzarella preferred |
| Oven/toaster oven | Bakes tostada pizzas | Preheat to 400°F (204°C) |
Having these tools ready makes the assembly and cooking of our tostada pizza seamless. It lets us focus on layering flavors and achieving the perfect crispy texture every time.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Tostada Pizza that combines crispiness and rich flavors in every bite.
Preparing the Tostada Base
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place large corn tostadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Using a pastry brush, lightly coat each tostada with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy texture.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt evenly over the oiled tostadas.
- Bake the tostadas for 5-7 minutes until they turn crisp and slightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the following:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Low-sodium tomato sauce | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Minced garlic | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
- Whisk the ingredients together until fully incorporated.
- Let the sauce rest for 5 minutes to develop depth of flavor.
Assembling the Tostada Pizza
- Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared sauce evenly over each tostada base.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce layer for a melty foundation.
- Add ¼ cup of cooked ground beef seasoned with taco spices per tostada.
- Layer with your choice of toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced black olives
- Chopped green onions
- Optional corn kernels (about 2 tablespoons)
- Make sure toppings are distributed evenly to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
Baking the Tostada Pizza
- Return the assembled tostadas to the baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are crisp.
- Keep a close eye after 7 minutes to prevent burning.
Adding Final Garnishes
- Remove the tostada pizzas from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
- Garnish with:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Dollops of sour cream
- Thinly sliced jalapeños for heat
- Lime wedges on the side for a tangy finish
- Serve while warm to enjoy the blend of crisp, creamy, and zesty flavors.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our tostada pizza experience, we recommend several serving options that complement its crispy texture and bold flavors.
Pairing Ideas
We suggest serving tostada pizza alongside fresh and vibrant sides to balance its richness:
- Mexican street corn salad: The sweetness and spice enhance the savory toppings.
- Refried beans or black beans: Provide creamy contrast and added protein.
- Fresh garden salad with lime vinaigrette: Adds brightness and crunch.
- Guacamole or sliced avocado: Brings creamy, cooling elements that contrast the crisp tostada.
Beverage Pairings
For drinks, opt for drinks that can cleanse the palate and amplify the zest:
| Beverage Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Classic margarita | The citrus notes meld beautifully with lime and jalapeño garnish. |
| Mexican cerveza | Crisp beers help refresh between bites. |
| Agua fresca | Fruit-infused waters provide natural sweetness and hydration. |
| Sparkling water with lime | Adds subtle bubbles enhancing the overall tasting profile. |
Garnish and Topping Enhancements
To customize our tostada pizza further when serving, consider:
- Drizzling extra sour cream or crema mexicana on top for a creamy finish.
- Adding a handful of pickled red onions for tangy crunch.
- Sprinkling crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese for an authentic Mexican touch.
- Offering extra jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce for bold spice lovers.
Serving Temperature and Presentation
We serve tostada pizza warm to keep the cheese gooey and the tostada crispy. Use vibrant plates or wooden boards to showcase the colorful toppings alongside lime wedges for squeezing.
“Serving tostada pizza with fresh garnishes and complementary sides transforms it from a casual snack into a delightful meal.“
By thoughtfully pairing and presenting, we enhance every bite of our crispy, cheesy tostada pizza and make mealtime more memorable.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Tostada Pizza ahead saves time and elevates your meal experience. Here are our top tips to ensure each component stays fresh and flavorful:
Prepare and Store Tostada Bases
- Brush large corn tostadas with olive oil and a light sprinkle of salt.
- Bake until crispy and golden as directed in the recipe.
- Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crunchiness.
Make the Sauce in Advance
- Whisk the sauce ingredients—tomato sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, chili powder, and seasonings—together.
- Allow the sauce to rest for at least 30 minutes to deepen flavor before storing.
- Refrigerate in a sealed jar or bowl for up to 3 days.
- Bring to room temperature before assembling the pizza for better spreading.
Prepare Toppings Early
- Cook and season the ground beef with taco spices ahead of time.
- Dice fresh toppings like tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños just before serving to preserve freshness.
- Store olives and corn kernels in small, covered bowls in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Assembly and Baking
- Assemble tostada pizzas just before baking to prevent sogginess.
- You can pre-assemble without cheese and keep covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours.
- Add cheese and bake as directed to enjoy melted, bubbly toppings with a crisp base.
Freezing Option
- Fully assembled tostada pizzas (with cheese) can be frozen before baking.
- Wrap individually with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 1 month.
- Bake frozen pizzas by adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tostada Bases | Airtight container | 2 days at room temp | Keep away from humidity |
| Sauce | Sealed jar or bowl | 3 days refrigerated | Rest before using |
| Cooked Beef | Airtight container | 2 days refrigerated | Reheat thoroughly before use |
| Fresh Toppings | Covered bowls | 1–2 days refrigerated | Dice fresh for best flavor |
| Assembled Pizzas | Wrapped & frozen | Up to 1 month freezer | Thaw partially before baking |
Tip: For best texture, avoid assembling tostada pizza too far in advance. Keep the tostada crunchy and toppings fresh by delaying assembly until just before baking.
By following these make-ahead tips we ensure each bite of your tostada pizza combines crispness, bold flavors, and melty cheese — just like freshly made.
Conclusion
Tostada pizza is a fun and flavorful way to mix up your meal routine without sacrificing taste or texture. Its crispy base combined with zesty toppings makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and the right tools, we can easily create this delicious dish that’s perfect for quick dinners or casual get-togethers.
By customizing toppings and pairing it with complementary sides and drinks, tostada pizza becomes more than just a snack—it’s a satisfying, vibrant meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe offers endless possibilities to enjoy bold flavors and crispy goodness every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tostada pizza?
Tostada pizza is a fusion dish combining crispy corn tostadas as the base with classic pizza toppings like tomato sauce, cheese, and various meats and veggies. It offers a crunchy twist on traditional pizza flavors.
How do you make the tostada base crispy?
Brush large corn tostadas with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, then bake until they become crisp and golden. This helps achieve the perfect crunchy texture for the pizza.
What ingredients are used in the sauce?
The sauce is made from low-sodium tomato sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, chili powder, and seasoning to taste. It’s flavorful and complements the toppings well.
Can I customize the toppings on my tostada pizza?
Yes! Tostada pizza is very versatile. Common toppings include shredded mozzarella, seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, corn, jalapeños, cilantro, and sour cream, but you can adjust to your preference.
What equipment do I need to make tostada pizza?
Basic tools include a baking sheet, parchment paper or silicone baking mat, pastry brush, mixing bowls, measuring spoons and cups, skillet or frying pan, spatula or wooden spoon, grater, and an oven or toaster oven.
How long do you bake tostada pizza?
After assembling, bake the tostada pizza until the cheese melts and bubbles, usually about 8–10 minutes at a preheated oven temperature of around 375°F (190°C).
What are good side dishes to serve with tostada pizza?
Great sides include Mexican street corn salad, refried beans, fresh garden salad with lime vinaigrette, and guacamole. These complement the bold flavors and crunchy texture of tostada pizza.
Can I prepare tostada pizza in advance?
Yes! You can make the tostada bases, sauce, and toppings ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble just before baking for best texture. Fully assembled pizzas can also be frozen for up to a month.
How should I serve tostada pizza for best presentation?
Serve warm on vibrant plates or wooden boards to highlight the colorful toppings. Add garnishes like fresh cilantro, sour cream, lime wedges, or pickled onions to elevate both flavor and appearance.
Is tostada pizza suitable for casual gatherings?
Absolutely! Its easy customization and quick assembly make it a perfect choice for casual meals or parties, offering a fun and tasty twist on traditional pizza everyone will enjoy.