Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ground Beef Tostadas are a crispy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and easy to customize. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, these tostadas feature seasoned ground beef atop crunchy corn tortillas, layered with classic toppings like refried beans, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Their texture and bold flavors make them a family favorite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beefcorn tostadasrefried beansoniongarlictaco seasoningsaltpeppercheddar cheeselettucetomatossour creamsalsajalapeños (optional)olive oil
directions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onions until translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned.
Stir in taco seasoning, salt, and pepper, then simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
In a separate pan or microwave, heat the refried beans until warm and easy to spread.
Lay out the corn tostadas on a clean surface.
Spread a layer of refried beans onto each tostada.
Top with a generous spoonful of seasoned ground beef.
Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, and jalapeños.
Serve immediately for the best crunch.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 tostadas.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes
Variations
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add avocado slices or guacamole for extra creaminess.
Use black beans or pinto beans instead of refried beans.
Try a spicy chipotle crema in place of sour cream.
Top with pickled onions or radishes for an extra zing.
storage/reheating
Store leftover beef and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat the beef, microwave or warm it in a skillet until hot.Assemble tostadas just before serving to maintain crispness.
FAQs
Can I make the tostadas from scratch?
Yes, fry corn tortillas in oil until crisp or bake them for a healthier version.
What’s the best way to keep tostadas from getting soggy?
Assemble them right before serving and keep wet ingredients like salsa on top.
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Absolutely, or you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free corn tortillas and seasonings.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, cook the beef and prep toppings ahead. Assemble just before eating.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work well.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Yes, kids can help spread beans and add toppings.
What sides go well with tostadas?
Mexican rice, street corn, or a simple salad are great choices.
Can I freeze the cooked beef?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Are tostadas spicy?
They’re mildly spiced but can be made spicier with jalapeños or hot salsa.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Tostadas are a crunchy, flavor-packed dish that delivers satisfaction in every bite. With easy prep and endless topping possibilities, they’re perfect for quick meals and fun family dinners. Try them once, and they might just become a regular on your weekly menu.
Print
Ground Beef Tostadas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 tostadas
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Assembling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Crispy corn tostada shells topped with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, lettuce, cheese, and fresh toppings for a flavorful Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 8 corn tostada shells
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup refried beans (store-bought or homemade)
- 1–2 cups shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeño, pickled onions, avocado or guacamole
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, 6–8 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until spices are fragrant and evenly coated.
- Warm refried beans in a separate saucepan or microwave until soft and spreadable.
- Assemble tostadas: spread about 2 tablespoons of refried beans on each shell, top with a generous scoop of seasoned ground beef.
- Add shredded lettuce and cheese to each.
- Finish with diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, and any optional toppings.
- Serve immediately while shells are crisp. Enjoy hot!
Notes
- Can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- For extra crispiness, lightly toast shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes before topping.
- Make ahead: prep beef and beans up to 2 days ahead, then assemble just before serving.
- For gluten‑free, ensure tostada shells are corn-based and beans are gluten‑free.
- Customize toppings: swap cheddar for cotija or queso fresco, add sliced radishes, lime wedges, or salsa.