Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These easy baked tortilla strips are made from simple ingredients, cook quickly, and turn out golden brown and crispy every time.
They’re a lighter alternative to fried tortilla chips but just as delicious. You can toss them on chicken tortilla soup, use them as a garnish for salads, or snack on them straight off the pan as you enjoy their crispy texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

corn tortillas (small)
olive oil
salt

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (about 175 °C) and line a baking sheet (parchment optional).
Place the tortillas on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with about half of the oil, sprinkle with salt. Flip the tortillas, brush the other side with the remaining oil and sprinkle salt again.
Using a pizza cutter (or sharp knife), cut the tortillas into ~¼‑inch strips. For smaller pieces, cut strips in half across the middle.
Spread the strips out evenly on the baking sheet so they have space and will crisp instead of steam.
Bake on the center rack for 8‑10 minutes, then flip the strips using tongs or a spatula, spread them out again, and bake another 8‑10 minutes (or until they’re golden brown and crunchy).
Let the crispy tortilla strips cool right on the pan before serving or storing.

Servings and timing

Servings: about 6 people (when serving as a topping)
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Cook time: about 16 minutes
Total time: about 21 minutes

Variations

Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas if that’s what you have on hand; they’ll be slightly puffier but still crispy.
Change up the seasoning: try a bit of chili powder, garlic salt, or taco seasoning for a flavor twist.
Air fryer option: Cook at 350 °F in the air fryer for about 5‑7 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

Once the baked tortilla strips have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and crispy for up to a week.
For extra crunch, you can put a paper bag inside the container to absorb any leftover oil.
Avoid refrigerating or freezing, as moisture can make them lose their crisp texture.

FAQs

How long do baked tortilla strips stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature after cooling completely, they’ll stay crisp for up to a week.

Can I fry tortilla strips instead of baking?

Yes — although the baked version is preferred here, you can fry tortilla strips in about ½‑inch of vegetable oil until golden brown, then drain on paper towels before serving.

Are homemade baked tortilla strips gluten‑free?

They can be — most corn tortillas are naturally gluten‑free. Be sure to check the label and confirm they are made from 100% corn with no added wheat flour. Also avoid cross contamination if preparing for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Can I use large tortillas instead of small?

Yes, you can use larger tortillas — just adjust the cutting so you get strips of an appropriate length for your topping or snack. The baking time should remain roughly the same if strips are similar thickness.

Can I add other spices for flavor?

Absolutely — you can sprinkle chili powder, garlic salt, taco seasoning, or even smoked paprika before baking, to give the strips more flavor.

What oil is best to use?

Olive oil is used in the recipe, but vegetable oil works well too. Either helps the strips bake up evenly and get that perfect crunch.

Can I make a double batch ahead of time?

Yes — the recipe is easy to double, and the strips store well, making them great for prepping in advance to top soups or salads.

Do I need to flip the strips during baking?

Yes — flipping halfway helps ensure the strips bake evenly and get crispy all over.

What happens if I crowd the pan?

If the strips are crowded, they may steam instead of crisping, so it’s best to give them space and spread them out evenly on the baking sheet.

Can I use this as a snack on its own?

Yes — while perfect as a topping for soup or salad, they’re crunchy and tasty enough to enjoy straight off the pan as a snack, too.

Conclusion

These baked tortilla strips are a simple, versatile recipe that adds crunchy texture and flavor to soups, salads, or just as a snack. With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, you’ll love how easy they are to make — and how much you’ll want to keep them on hand.