Crispy Homemade Tortilla Strips

If you love adding a crunchy, flavorful touch to your soups, salads, and Mexican dishes, then you need to try these homemade tortilla strips! Whether you bake or fry them, they’re super easy to make, require just two ingredients, and taste so much better than store-bought.

Tortilla strips are a must-have topping for classics like taco salad, tortilla soup, and chilaquiles, but they also make a great snack on their own. Plus, when you make them yourself, you can customize the seasoning and get them perfectly crisp every time!

Let’s get started on making perfectly crispy tortilla strips in just a few minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Crunchy & flavorful – The perfect topping for any dish!
✔ Quick & easy – Ready in 10 minutes with just 2 ingredients.
✔ Baked or fried options – Make them your way!
✔ Customizable seasoning – Add chili, lime, or even cinnamon sugar.
✔ Better than store-bought – Fresher, crispier, and budget-friendly!

What Do Tortilla Strips Taste Like?

These homemade tortilla strips have a light, crispy texture with a slightly salty, toasty corn flavor. They’re golden and crunchy, with just the right amount of crispness to hold up in soups or salads without getting soggy too fast.

If you love restaurant-style tortilla strips, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make them at home!

The Difference Between Tortilla Strips and Tortilla Chips

Many people confuse tortilla strips with tortilla chips, but they’re actually different in texture and use. Here’s how they compare:

Feature	Tortilla Strips	Tortilla Chips
Shape	Long, thin strips	Triangles or rounds
Crunchiness	Light and crispy	Thicker and crunchier
Best For	Topping soups, salads, dips	Snacking and dipping
Cooking Method	Baked or fried	Mostly fried
Common Seasonings	Salt, chili, lime	Salt, nacho cheese, lime

If you love crunchy toppings, tortilla strips are lighter and easier to add to meals than traditional chips!

Ingredients for Tortilla Strips

You only need two basic ingredients for this recipe:

• 6 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas, for a softer crunch)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil, for a healthier option)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Optional Seasonings:

• Chili powder or smoked paprika – For a smoky, spicy kick.
• Garlic powder – Adds extra flavor.
• Lime zest – A fresh, citrusy touch.
• Cinnamon sugar – Perfect for a sweet version!

The Best Tortillas for Making Tortilla Strips

The type of tortilla you use makes a big difference in texture, flavor, and crunchiness. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:

Corn Tortillas (Traditional Choice)

✔ Crispiest & most authentic option.
✔ Holds up well in soups and salads.
✔ Best for a deep, toasty corn flavor.

Flour Tortillas (Softer & Flakier)

✔ Makes lighter, flakier strips with a slightly chewy texture.
✔ Doesn’t get as crisp as corn tortillas.
✔ Works well for a more delicate crunch in salads.

Whole Wheat Tortillas (Healthier Option)

✔ Adds extra fiber & nutrients.
✔ Has a slightly nutty taste.
✔ Doesn’t get as crispy as corn but works for a healthier twist.

Flavored or Specialty Tortillas

✔ Try spinach, tomato, or chipotle tortillas for unique flavors.
✔ Adds a colorful, fun touch to dishes.
✔ Best for garnishing soups and salads with extra flavor.

For the best, crispiest tortilla strips, corn tortillas are the way to go! But if you prefer a softer, lighter texture, flour tortillas work great too.

How to Make Tortilla Strips (Two Ways!)

Method 1: Baked Tortilla Strips (Healthier Option)

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut tortillas into strips – Stack the tortillas and slice them into ¼-inch wide strips.
3. Toss with oil & seasoning – In a bowl, mix the strips with oil and salt (plus any extra seasonings).
4. Bake until crispy – Spread the strips evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crunchy.
5. Cool & enjoy! Let them cool slightly before using.

Method 2: Fried Tortilla Strips (Crispier & Faster!)

1. Heat oil – In a large skillet, heat ½ inch of oil over medium heat until shimmering (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Fry in batches – Add tortilla strips in a single layer, frying for 30-45 seconds per side until golden and crispy.
3. Drain & season – Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt while hot.
4. Serve immediately! Perfectly crispy and delicious.

How to Make Extra-Thin & Crispy Tortilla Strips

Want ultra-crispy tortilla strips that are light, airy, and perfectly golden? Follow these tips:

✔ Use day-old tortillas – Slightly dried-out tortillas crisp up better.
✔ Slice strips as thin as possible – Aim for ⅛-inch wide strips for a delicate crunch.
✔ Toss with cornstarch before baking or frying – Helps absorb moisture and adds crispiness.
✔ Bake at a slightly lower temperature (350°F/175°C) – Slower cooking ensures even crisping without burning.
✔ Fry in small batches – Avoid overcrowding so the strips fry evenly.

Using these tricks, you’ll get light, shatteringly crisp tortilla strips—just like the ones served in top Mexican restaurants!

Can You Make Tortilla Strips Without Oil?

Yes! You can make oil-free tortilla strips if you’re looking for a healthier, lower-fat option. Here’s how:

✔ Bake at a lower temperature (325°F/165°C) – Prevents over-browning.
✔ Use parchment paper – Prevents sticking without oil.
✔ Flip halfway through baking – Helps them crisp up evenly.
✔ Use an air fryer – Crisp them up without extra oil at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

They won’t be as golden or rich in flavor as traditional tortilla strips, but they’ll still be crispy and delicious!

Ways to Use Tortilla Strips

These crispy tortilla strips are so versatile! Here are some tasty ways to use them:

✔ Tortilla Soup – A classic topping that adds crunch to every bite.
✔ Taco Salad – The best crunchy topping for Mexican-style salads.
✔ Chili & Stews – Adds texture and flavor to warm, hearty dishes.
✔ Guacamole & Dips – Scoop up guac, salsa, or queso with these instead of chips.
✔ Breakfast Scrambles – Mix into eggs for extra crunch.
✔ Dessert – Toss with cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat!

The Best Oils for Frying Tortilla Strips

If you’re frying your tortilla strips, choosing the right oil is key for flavor, crispness, and health benefits. Here are the best options:

1. Vegetable Oil (Classic Choice)

✔ Neutral flavor that won’t overpower the tortilla.
✔ High smoke point, perfect for frying.
✔ Budget-friendly and widely available.

2. Canola Oil (Healthier Alternative)

✔ Lower in saturated fat than vegetable oil.
✔ Produces crispy, golden tortilla strips.
✔ Mild flavor that lets seasonings shine.

3. Avocado Oil (Best for Health & High Heat)

✔ Heart-healthy fats and vitamins.
✔ High smoke point (520°F/270°C)—great for frying!
✔ Adds a subtle buttery flavor to the strips.

4. Peanut Oil (Extra Crispy Strips!)

✔ Super light and crisp texture.
✔ Adds a slight nutty flavor that enhances Mexican dishes.
✔ Ideal for those who love extra crunchy tortilla strips.

For authentic, crispy tortilla strips, vegetable or canola oil are great choices. But if you want a healthier alternative, go for avocado oil!

Tips for the Best Tortilla Strips

✔ Use corn tortillas for the crispiest, most authentic flavor. Flour tortillas make softer strips.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—cook in small batches for even crisping.
✔ Flip halfway when baking to get evenly crispy strips.
✔ Season while hot! The oil helps the seasoning stick better.
✔ Store properly to keep them fresh—see below for storage tips!

Best Ways to Season Tortilla Strips

Want to take your tortilla strips to the next level? Try these seasoning ideas:

🔥 Spicy Kick: Chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne.
🧄 Savory Garlic: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt.
🍋 Zesty Lime: Lime zest, sea salt, cumin.
🌮 Taco Style: Taco seasoning or fajita spice mix.
🍭 Sweet Cinnamon Sugar: Sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of honey.

Simply toss your tortilla strips with the seasonings right after baking or frying, while they’re still hot, so the flavors stick!

How to Store & Keep Tortilla Strips Fresh

• At room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• In the fridge: Not recommended, as they lose crispness.
• In the freezer: Store in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for crispness.

Are Tortilla Strips Gluten-Free?

Yes, if you use corn tortillas, your tortilla strips will be naturally gluten-free! However, if you use flour tortillas, they contain gluten.

How to Keep Tortilla Strips Gluten-Free

✔ Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas. Some brands may have cross-contamination.
✔ Check your seasonings! Some taco seasonings contain hidden gluten.
✔ Avoid frying in shared oil if you have celiac disease—use fresh oil.

If you need a gluten-free tortilla strip alternative, stick to corn tortillas and simple seasonings for the safest option!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes! Flour tortillas make softer, flakier tortilla strips, while corn tortillas are crispier and more traditional.

2. How do I prevent tortilla strips from burning in the oven?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) and flip them halfway through to avoid overbrowning.

3. Can I make these tortilla strips in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.

4. How do I make tortilla strips without oil?

You can bake them without oil, but they won’t be as crisp. A light spray of cooking oil helps them crisp up better.

5. Can I season them differently?

Yes! Try taco seasoning, ranch powder, or even a spicy cayenne blend for extra flavor.

Fun Ways to Use Leftover Tortilla Strips

If you’ve made a big batch of tortilla strips, don’t let them go to waste! Here are some fun ways to use leftovers:

✔ Breakfast Tacos – Sprinkle over scrambled eggs for extra crunch.
✔ Crunchy Tostadas – Use them as a crispy base for toppings.
✔ Mexican-Style Nachos – Layer with cheese, beans, and salsa.
✔ Crouton Replacement – Toss into salads for a crunchy alternative.
✔ Snack Mix – Mix with nuts, pretzels, and dried fruit.

These crispy strips are so versatile, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy them!

Final Thoughts – Why You Should Make These Now!

These homemade tortilla strips are the perfect crunchy topping for so many dishes. Whether you bake or fry them, they’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor—way better than store-bought!

✔ Made with just 2 ingredients!
✔ Crunchy, golden, and super versatile.
✔ Perfect for soups, salads, dips & more!

Try this homemade tortilla strips recipe today, and don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest or Instagram! 🌮🔥

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