Description
Tortilla strips are crispy, golden, and perfect for topping soups, salads, and dips. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, these homemade tortilla strips are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Forget store-bought—make them fresh with just two ingredients and customize with your favorite seasonings!
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Tortilla Strips:
- 6 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas for a softer crunch)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Seasonings:
- Chili powder or smoked paprika – For a smoky, spicy kick.
- Garlic powder or onion powder – For extra savory flavor.
- Lime zest – Adds a fresh citrus touch.
- Taco seasoning – Perfect for Mexican-inspired dishes.
- Cinnamon sugar – For a sweet version!
Instructions
Method 1: Baked Tortilla Strips (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut tortillas into strips – Stack tortillas and slice into ¼-inch wide strips.
- Toss with oil & seasoning – In a bowl, mix strips with oil and salt (plus any extra seasonings).
- Bake until crispy – Spread strips evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crunchy.
- Cool & serve! Let them cool slightly before using.
Method 2: Fried Tortilla Strips (Crispier & Faster!)
- Heat oil – In a large skillet, heat ½ inch of oil over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Fry in batches – Add tortilla strips in a single layer, frying for 30-45 seconds per side until golden and crispy.
- Drain & season – Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt while hot.
- Serve immediately! Enjoy your perfectly crispy tortilla strips.
Method 3: Air-Fried Tortilla Strips (Fast & Oil-Free Option!)
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly coat tortilla strips with oil and season.
- Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and golden.
- Cool & serve over soups, salads, or dips!
Notes
- Corn tortillas give the crunchiest strips, while flour tortillas make flakier, softer strips.
- For extra crunch, let tortillas dry out for 1-2 hours before cutting.
- Toss with seasonings while hot so they stick better.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a fresh, crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Toppings
- Method: Baking, Frying, Air-Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Tortilla strips, homemade tortilla strips, crispy tortilla strips, baked tortilla strips, fried tortilla strips