Introduction
If you love bold, smoky flavors, crispy textures, and fresh toppings, then Loaded Carne Asada Tostadas are the perfect dish for you! This Mexican-inspired classic combines crispy corn tostadas, juicy marinated carne asada, creamy guacamole, and zesty pico de gallo for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re making these for a weeknight dinner, game day snack, or a festive gathering, tostadas are easy to prepare, highly customizable, and absolutely delicious.
-The History of Tostadas
Tostadas originated in Mexico as a way to repurpose leftover tortillas. Instead of discarding stale or slightly hardened tortillas, they were fried or toasted to create a crispy base. Over time, tostadas evolved into a staple of Mexican cuisine, topped with beans, meats, cheeses, salsas, and more.
Carne asada, which means “grilled meat” in Spanish, is a Mexican grilling tradition that dates back centuries. It involves marinating thinly sliced beef (usually flank or skirt steak) with citrus, garlic, and spices before grilling over an open flame.
When you combine carne asada with a crispy tostada, you get a perfect balance of crunch, tenderness, and rich flavors—a true fiesta on a plate!
-Ingredients
For the Carne Asada:
½ lb flank steak or skirt steak
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon oregano
For the Tostadas:
2 corn tortillas (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup guacamole
½ cup pico de gallo
¼ cup cotija cheese (or queso fresco)
¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving
-Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Carne Asada
1. In a bowl or ziplock bag, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Add the steak, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Carne Asada
1. Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the marinated steak for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F–135°F (medium-rare).
3. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips or chopping into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Tostadas
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place corn tortillas on a baking sheet and lightly brush with oil.
3. Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can fry them in hot oil for a traditional tostada.
Step 4: Assemble the Tostadas
1. Spread a generous layer of guacamole on each crispy tostada.
2. Add a portion of chopped carne asada on top.
3. Spoon on pico de gallo for freshness and acidity.
4. Sprinkle cotija cheese over the tostada.
5. Drizzle with sour cream or crema for creaminess.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve these tostadas immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side of elote (Mexican street corn).
-Tips for the Best Carne Asada Tostadas
Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the steak’s flavor.
Let the steak rest before cutting to retain its juices.
Use fresh tortillas for a better crunch.
Customize your toppings with shredded lettuce, sliced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
-Variations to Try
1. Spicy Chipotle Carne Asada Tostadas
Add 1 teaspoon chipotle powder or chopped chipotle peppers to the marinade for a smoky, spicy kick.
2. Cheesy Carne Asada Tostadas
Melt a layer of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese onto the tostada before adding toppings.
3. Vegetarian Black Bean Tostadas
Swap carne asada for black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled veggies.
4. Breakfast Carne Asada Tostadas
Top with a fried egg and drizzle with hollandaise or avocado crema for a brunch twist.
-Pairing Suggestions
These Loaded Carne Asada Tostadas pair perfectly with:
Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn with mayo, cotija, and chili powder.
Horchata or Agua Fresca – A refreshing drink to balance the bold flavors.
Classic Margaritas or Micheladas – For a true fiesta experience!
-Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat steak gently in a skillet to prevent drying out.
Keep tostadas separate from wet toppings to maintain their crispiness.
-Final Thoughts
Loaded Carne Asada Tostadas are the perfect blend of crispy, tender, fresh, and creamy flavors. They bring the essence of authentic Mexican street food right into your kitchen with simple ingredients and bold seasonings.
Whether you’re hosting a Taco Tuesday, a summer BBQ, or just craving a satisfying meal, these tostadas are a must-try recipe.
Try them today and experience a true explosion of flavor in every bite!