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Ground Beef Tostadas

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • 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

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, 6–8 minutes.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until spices are fragrant and evenly coated.
  5. Warm refried beans in a separate saucepan or microwave until soft and spreadable.
  6. Assemble tostadas: spread about 2 tablespoons of refried beans on each shell, top with a generous scoop of seasoned ground beef.
  7. Add shredded lettuce and cheese to each.
  8. Finish with diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, and any optional toppings.
  9. 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.

Find it online: https://simplemealsbykim.com/ground-beef-tostadas/