Easy Ground Beef Tostadas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & simple: Ready in about 25–30 minutes, perfect for busy nights .
• Customizable toppings: Use what you love lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, salsa, sour cream, cilantro, or your favorite cheese .
• Crowd-friendly: Makes about 4–6 servings depending on servings per shell .

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
▢ 8 tostada shells or corn tortillas
▢ 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
▢ ½ onion, diced
▢ 2 cloves garlic, minced
▢ 1 pound lean ground beef
▢ ½ cup refried beans
▢ ¼ cup salsa (plus more for serving)
▢ 2 cups shredded lettuce
▢ 1 tomato, diced
▢ 1 avocado, diced
▢ ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
▢ Sour cream, for serving
▢ Fresh cilantro, for serving

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
4. Stir in the salsa and optionally season further  to taste .
5. Warm the refried beans separately.
6. Assemble each tostada: spread a layer of refried beans, then top with the beef mixture.
7. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomato, avocado, cheese, and a drizzle of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. Serve immediately while shells are crisp.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 4–6 tostadas (1 per person), depending on appetite and shell size .

Timing:

• Prep time: ~10–15 minutes
• Cook time: ~10–20 minutes depending on heating method
• Total: ~25–30 minutes

Variations

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
• Add spices like cumin, chili powder, or paprika to the meat for a bolder flavor.
• Use different cheese or fresh toppings like pickled jalapeños.
• Mix in cooked black beans or corn for extra texture and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store components separately keep meat and beans in airtight containers in fridge for up to 3 days. Don’t assemble in advance to maintain crispness.
• Reheating: Gently reheat meat and beans in a skillet, then assemble on fresh tostada shells so they stay crunchy.

FAQs

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of tostada shells?

Yes just crisp them up in the oven (400°F, about 5–10 minutes per side) or fry them lightly before assembling.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Sort of cook the meat and beans in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble tostadas just before serving to maintain their crisp texture.

3. Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely. Replace ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms and beans instead.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

You can freeze cooked meat or beans separately for up to 2–3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.

5. What’s a good way to keep tostadas from getting soggy?

Serve components separately and assemble just before eating. That keeps the shells crisp.

6. Can I make smaller or bite-sized versions?

Yes use mini tostada rounds or tortilla chips to create appetizer-style tostadas.

7. Can I add heat?

Definitely. Top with sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or use spicy salsa.

8. What cheese melts best?

Sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack melt well and offer great flavor. Queso fresco adds a nice tang.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes ensure your tostada shells or corn tortillas are certified gluten-free, then all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

10. Any ideas for a side dish?

Serve with Mexican street corn salad, Spanish rice, or chips and guacamole for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Easy Ground Beef Tostadas are a delicious and versatile dinner option quick to make, customizable, and endlessly satisfying. With crisp tortillas, savory beef, beans, and fresh toppings, it’s a fun and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Let me know if you’d like tips on making a homemade salsa or different serving ideas!

Print