The Best Crispy Tortilla Strips Recipe (Easy & Homemade!)

Tortilla strips are a delicious, crunchy addition to soups, salads, and Mexican dishes. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or a topping, they bring the perfect texture and flavor to your meals. But what exactly are tortilla strips? How do they differ from tortilla chips? And can you make them at home?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from what tortilla strips are made of to the best ways to cook them. We’ll also discuss where to buy them and share some easy homemade recipes. If you’re ready to make the crispiest tortilla strips, keep reading!

What Are Tortilla Strips?

Origins & Popularity

Tortilla strips have their roots in Mexican cuisine, where tortillas have been a staple for centuries. While traditional tortillas were often eaten whole or used to make tacos, people started cutting them into thin strips and frying them for added crunch. Over time, tortilla strips became popular in Tex-Mex dishes, particularly as a garnish for soups like tortilla soup and as a topping for taco salads.

Today, you’ll find tortilla strips in grocery stores, restaurants, and homemade recipes worldwide. They’re known for their light, crispy texture and versatility in both savory and sweet dishes.

How Does It Differ from Tortilla Chips

Many people confuse tortilla strips with tortilla chips, but they have key differences:

Tortilla strips are better for topping dishes since they blend well with other ingredients, while tortilla chips are sturdier, making them ideal for dipping into salsa or guacamole.

What Are Tortilla Strips Made Of?

Tortilla strips are made from simple ingredients, yet their crispiness and flavor make them a favorite in many dishes. Whether you prefer corn tortillas or flour tortillas, each type offers a unique texture and taste.

Traditional Ingredients

At their core, tortilla strips contain only a few ingredients:

• Tortillas (corn or flour)
• Oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil for frying)
• Salt (for seasoning)

Some variations include seasonings like chili powder, garlic powder, or lime juice to enhance the flavor. The choice of tortilla type significantly impacts the final texture and taste of the strips.

Corn vs. Flour Tortilla Strips – Key Differences

The main difference between corn and flour tortilla strips is their texture and crispiness.

• Corn tortilla strips are commonly used in traditional Mexican dishes, adding a crispy crunch to soups like tortilla soup.
• Flour tortilla strips are lighter and crispier, making them great for snacking or using in Tex-Mex dishes.

If you’re making homemade tortilla strips, you can experiment with both types to see which you prefer!

Are Tortilla Strips Healthy?

Tortilla strips are undeniably delicious and crunchy, but are they a healthy choice? The answer depends on how they are prepared, the type of tortillas used, and portion size. In this section, we’ll break down the nutritional value of tortilla strips and explore healthier ways to enjoy them.

Nutritional Breakdown of Tortilla Strips

The nutritional content of tortilla strips varies based on whether they’re fried, baked, or air-fried and whether they’re made from corn or flour tortillas. Below is a general comparison:

Key Takeaways:

• Fried tortilla strips are higher in calories and fat due to the oil used in frying.
• Corn tortilla strips tend to have more fiber and a slightly lower calorie count than flour versions.
• Baked tortilla strips are the healthiest option, with fewer calories and less fat.

Healthier Ways to Enjoy

If you’re watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy the crispy goodness of tortilla strips, consider these healthier options:

✅ Choose Baked or Air-Fried Versions – Baking or air-frying reduces fat while still delivering crispiness.
✅ Use Whole Wheat or Grain Tortillas – Whole grain options add more fiber and nutrients.
✅ Limit Salt & Seasonings – Store-bought versions can be high in sodium; making them at home allows for better control over ingredients.
✅ Portion Control – Enjoy tortilla strips in moderation, using them as a garnish rather than eating large handfuls.

Tortilla strips can be part of a balanced diet when eaten mindfully. If you’re looking for lower-calorie options, baking or air-frying your tortilla strips is the way to go!

How to Make Tortilla Strips at Home

Making crispy tortilla strips at home is quick and easy! Whether you prefer corn or flour tortillas, the process is simple and requires just a few ingredients. In this section, we’ll cover the best tortillas to use and a step-by-step guide to making perfectly crispy tortilla strips.

Best Type of Tortillas to Use

The choice of tortilla affects the texture and taste of your strips. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Tip: If you want extra-crispy tortilla strips, use day-old tortillas. They have less moisture, which helps them crisp up better when cooked.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Tortilla Strips

You can fry, bake, or air-fry tortilla strips depending on your preference. Here’s a simple step-by-step process for each method:

Fried Tortilla Strips (Traditional & Crispiest Method)

✔ Ingredients:

• 4 corn or flour tortillas
• ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
• Salt to taste

✔ Instructions:

1. Stack tortillas and cut them into thin strips (about ¼-inch wide).
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Add tortilla strips in batches, frying for 30-45 seconds per side until golden brown.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
5. Sprinkle with salt while hot, then let cool for extra crispiness.

Baked Tortilla Strips (Healthier Option)

✔ Ingredients:

• 4 tortillas (corn or flour)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and seasoning of choice

✔ Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush tortillas lightly with olive oil, then cut into thin strips.
3. Arrange strips on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and season immediately.

Air-Fried Version (Best of Both Worlds!)

✔ Ingredients:

• 4 tortillas
• 1 tsp oil
• Salt to taste

✔ Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly coat tortilla strips with oil and place in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and golden.
4. Remove and season as desired.

Cooking Methods for Perfect Tortilla Strips

Now that you know how to make homemade tortilla strips, let’s explore the best cooking methods to achieve the perfect crunch. Whether you prefer the classic fried version, a healthier baked option, or the convenience of an air fryer, each method has its own advantages.

Frying for Extra Crispiness

Frying is the traditional way to cook tortilla strips, giving them a super crispy texture with a golden-brown finish.

✔ Pros:

• Crispiest results
• Quick cooking time
• Classic restaurant-style taste

✔ Cons:

• Higher in calories and fat
• Requires more oil and cleanup

✔ Pro Tips for Frying:
✅ Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil for the best flavor.
✅ Keep the oil at 350-375°F (175-190°C) to prevent soggy or burned strips.
✅ Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature.

Baking for a Healthier Alternative

Baking tortilla strips is a low-fat alternative that still provides crispiness while cutting down on calories.

✔ Pros:

• Uses less oil (or none at all)
• No deep-frying mess
• Great for large batches

✔ Cons:

• Takes longer than frying
• Slightly less crispy than fried strips

✔ Pro Tips for Baking:
✅ Use a hot oven (375-400°F / 190-200°C) for the best results.
✅ Arrange tortilla strips in a single layer to ensure even crisping.
✅ Toss with a little oil for extra crunch, but avoid drenching them.

Air Frying – The Best of Both Worlds

Air frying combines the crispiness of frying with the health benefits of baking. It requires minimal oil but still delivers great crunch.

✔ Pros:

• Crispy texture with minimal oil
• Faster than baking
• Healthier than frying

✔ Cons:

• Works best in small batches
• Requires shaking or flipping for even cooking

✔ Pro Tips for Air Frying:
✅ Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) before adding the strips.
✅ Shake or stir the strips halfway through cooking for even crisping.
✅ Lightly spray with oil to mimic the texture of fried tortilla strips.

Which Cooking Method Is Best?

If you love super crispy tortilla strips, go for frying. If you want a healthier option, choose baking or air frying. Either way, you’ll end up with delicious homemade tortilla strips!

Flavor Variations & Seasonings

One of the best things about homemade tortilla strips is that you can customize their flavor however you like. While classic salted tortilla strips are always a hit, you can experiment with spicy, cheesy, or zesty flavors to match your favorite dishes.

Classic Salted Version

If you’re looking for simple and traditional tortilla strips, a light sprinkle of salt is all you need.

✔ Best Uses: Soups, salads, Tex-Mex dishes
✔ How to Make It:

• Right after cooking, sprinkle kosher salt or sea salt on the hot tortilla strips.
• Let them cool to lock in the crispiness.

Spicy Tortilla Strips

For a bold and fiery kick, add some heat with chili and cayenne seasonings.

✔ Best Uses: Spicy soups, nachos, Tex-Mex wraps
✔ How to Make It:

• Toss tortilla strips with chili powder, cayenne, and smoked paprika before baking or air-frying.
• Add a dash of lime juice for extra zing.

🔥 Spicy Seasoning Mix:

• ½ tsp chili powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of salt

Garlic & Herb Version

If you love savory and aromatic flavors, this garlic and herb seasoning is a game-changer.

✔ Best Uses: Mediterranean salads, creamy soups
✔ How to Make It:

• Toss tortilla strips with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a little olive oil before baking.

🌿 Garlic & Herb Seasoning Mix:

• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• Pinch of black pepper

Cheesy Option

Craving cheesy, crunchy tortilla strips? This parmesan and cheddar combo adds a rich, savory flavor.

✔ Best Uses: Topping for chili, snacking, taco bowls
✔ How to Make It:

• Sprinkle grated parmesan or cheddar over tortilla strips during the last 5 minutes of baking.

🧀 Cheesy Seasoning Mix:

• 1 tbsp grated parmesan
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of black pepper

Sweet Cinnamon Tortilla

Yes, tortilla strips can be sweet too! These cinnamon-sugar tortilla strips are perfect for dipping in chocolate or caramel.

✔ Best Uses: Dessert nachos, fruit dips, yogurt toppings
✔ How to Make It:

• Toss tortilla strips in a mix of cinnamon and sugar before baking.
• Drizzle with honey or melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

🍯 Cinnamon-Sugar Mix:

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp melted butter or coconut oil

Final Tip: Mix & Match!

Don’t be afraid to combine flavors! Try spicy & cheesy tortilla strips or garlic & herb with a hint of lime. The possibilities are endless!

Best Ways to Use Tortilla Strips in Recipes

Tortilla strips aren’t just for snacking—they’re a versatile ingredient that adds crunch and flavor to countless dishes. Whether you sprinkle them on soups and salads, use them in Mexican cuisine, or turn them into a savory snack, these crispy strips can elevate any meal.

Toppings for Soups & Salads

One of the most popular uses for tortilla strips is as a topping for soups and salads. They add a crunchy contrast to creamy or brothy dishes, making them a must-have garnish.

✔ Best Soups for Tortilla Strips:

• Chicken Tortilla Soup – A classic Mexican soup where crispy tortilla strips soak up delicious broth.
• Tomato Soup – A great alternative to croutons, tortilla strips add extra texture.
• Black Bean Soup – The crunch pairs perfectly with the rich, spiced black bean base.

✔ Best Salads for Tortilla Strips:

• Taco Salad – A Tex-Mex favorite, topped with seasoned beef, cheese, and tortilla strips.
• Southwest Chicken Salad – A mix of grilled chicken, corn, black beans, and crunchy tortilla strips.
• Mexican Caesar Salad – A twist on a Caesar salad with a zesty dressing and tortilla strips instead of croutons.

Pro Tip: To keep tortilla strips crunchy in soups, add them right before serving.

Crunchy Additions to Mexican Dishes

Tortilla strips are a staple in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, adding texture and flavor to various dishes.

🌮 Ways to Use Them in Mexican Dishes:

• Chilaquiles – A classic Mexican breakfast dish where tortilla strips are simmered in salsa and topped with cheese.
• Enchilada Casseroles – Use tortilla strips instead of whole tortillas for a layered effect.
• Tostadas & Sopes – Sprinkle tortilla strips on top for an extra crunch.

Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Toss tortilla strips in chili-lime seasoning before adding them to Mexican dishes!

Snack Ideas with Tortilla Strips

Tortilla strips can be transformed into a quick, crispy snack with just a few extra ingredients.

🥑 Tortilla Strip Nachos:

• Spread tortilla strips on a baking sheet.
• Sprinkle with melted cheese, jalapeños, and black beans.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
• Top with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.

🧄 Garlic Parmesan Crispy Strips:

• Toss tortilla strips with olive oil, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.

🍫 Sweet Cinnamon Strips with Chocolate Dip:

• Toss strips with cinnamon sugar and bake until crispy.
• Serve with warm melted chocolate or dulce de leche for dipping.

Final Tip: Always Keep a Batch Ready!

Homemade tortilla strips stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. Make a big batch and use them throughout the week for quick snacks and meal toppings.

Where to Buy Tortilla Strips

If you don’t have time to make homemade tortilla strips, store-bought options are widely available. Many grocery stores carry pre-made tortilla strips, which come in different flavors and textures. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, here’s where to find them.

Grocery Stores That Sell Tortilla Strips (Including Aldi)

Most major grocery chains sell bagged tortilla strips in the chip aisle or near salad toppings. Some of the best places to find them include:

Does Aldi Sell Tortilla Strips?
Yes! Aldi sells Clancy’s Tortilla Strips, usually found in the chip aisle. They are a budget-friendly option and perfect for making nachos or soup toppings. Availability may vary, so check your local store.

Online Options for Buying Pre-Made Tortilla Strips

If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, you can find tortilla strips on popular websites.

✔ Best Online Stores for Tortilla Strips:

• Amazon – Brands like Mission, Fresh Gourmet, and 365 by Whole Foods.
• Walmart Online – Same brands as in-store, with home delivery options.
• Instacart – Get tortilla strips delivered from local grocery stores.
• Thrive Market – Organic and specialty tortilla strips.

💡 Pro Tip: When buying online, check customer reviews to ensure freshness and crispiness!

FAQs

Before we wrap up, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked questions about tortilla strips. Whether you’re wondering about their ingredients, health benefits, or where to buy them, we’ve got you covered!

1. What Are Tortilla Strips Made Of?

Tortilla strips are made from corn or flour tortillas, which are cut into thin strips and then fried, baked, or air-fried. The basic ingredients include:

• Corn or flour tortillas
• Oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
• Salt or seasoning (optional)

Some store-bought versions may include preservatives or artificial flavors, so check the ingredient list if you prefer a more natural option.

2. Are Tortilla Strips Healthy?

It depends on how they’re made! Fried tortilla strips tend to be higher in calories and fat, while baked or air-fried versions are much healthier.

✔ Healthier Tips for Eating Tortilla Strips:
✅ Choose baked or air-fried options instead of deep-fried.
✅ Use whole wheat tortillas for more fiber.
✅ Control portion sizes—too many can add extra calories!

Homemade tortilla strips are the best option if you want to control the ingredients and make them healthier.

3. Does Aldi Sell Tortilla Strips?

Yes! Aldi sells Clancy’s Tortilla Strips, which are usually found in the chip aisle. They are an affordable and tasty option for soups, salads, and snacking. Availability may vary by location, so check your local store or Aldi’s website.

4. Can You Make Tortilla Strips with Flour Tortillas?

Yes, you can! While corn tortillas are more traditional, flour tortillas create a lighter, crispier texture. To make flour tortilla strips:

1. Cut flour tortillas into strips (¼-inch wide).
2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or air-fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
3. Sprinkle with salt or seasoning and let cool for extra crunch.

Flour tortilla strips are great for salads, nachos, and even dessert versions (like cinnamon-sugar tortilla strips).

Conclusion

Tortilla strips are a delicious and versatile addition to any dish, whether you make them at home or buy them from the store. They can be fried for extra crispiness, baked for a healthier option, or air-fried for the best of both worlds. With so many flavor variations and uses, tortilla strips are a must-have for soups, salads, Tex-Mex meals, and snacks.

If you haven’t tried making homemade tortilla strips yet, now’s the time! Experiment with different tortillas, seasonings, and cooking methods to find your favorite version.

Looking for more tasty cooking tips? Check out SpoonSecrets.com for more delicious recipes and kitchen hacks!