Tlayuda Recipe

Tlayuda is a crispy, flavorful Oaxacan dish made with a large tortilla, refried beans, cheese, and fresh toppings. This Authentic Tlayuda Recipe is easy to make and packed with delicious flavors, perfect for a meal or snack.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican, Oaxacan

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Large skillet or grill
Spatula
Mixing bowl
Spoon

Ingredients

For the Tlayuda:

4 large corn tortillas (preferably Oaxacan-style or store-bought tlayudas)
1 cup refried black beans (or mashed black beans)
1/2 cup Oaxacan cheese (quesillo), shredded (can substitute mozzarella if unavailable)
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
1/2 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)
1 avocado (sliced)
1/4 cup cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup shredded lettuce (optional)
1/2 cup cooked chorizo (optional)
Salsa or hot sauce for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Toppings
Heat the refried black beans in a small pot over low heat until warm. Set aside.Shred the Oaxacan cheese and crumble the queso fresco. Set aside.Slice the avocado and prepare any additional toppings like lettuce, chorizo, or pickled jalapeños.
2. Crisp the Tortillas
Heat a large skillet or grill over medium heat. Lightly brush the tortillas with olive oil on both sides.Place the tortillas in the skillet or on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are crispy and golden. Be sure not to overcook them, as you want them crispy but still slightly pliable.
3. Assemble the Tlayuda
Spread a generous layer of the warm refried black beans over each tortilla.Sprinkle the shredded Oaxacan cheese and crumbled queso fresco evenly over the beans.Top with avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, lettuce, and any other toppings of your choice.
4. Cook the Tlayuda
Place the assembled tlayuda back on the skillet or grill to warm the toppings and slightly melt the cheese, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve
Remove the tlayuda from the heat and drizzle with Mexican crema or sour cream.Slice into wedges and serve with salsa or hot sauce on the side.

Notes

Tortilla Type: If you can’t find Oaxacan-style tortillas, you can use large store-bought corn tortillas. The key is to make them crispy on the skillet or grill.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chorizo for a fully vegetarian version. The beans, cheese, and avocado provide plenty of flavor and texture.
Additional Toppings: You can customize the tlayuda with various toppings such as grilled chicken, steak, or even shrimp. Fresh tomatoes, radishes, or pickled onions also add great texture.
Serve with Salsa: A good salsa or hot sauce enhances the flavors. Try serving it with a smoky salsa roja or tangy salsa verde.
Make it Crisp: For a crispy tlayuda, make sure the tortillas are golden brown before adding the toppings, but don’t overcook to the point of brittleness.