Easy Ground Beef Tostadas

Looking for a quick, customizable, and delicious meal that the whole family will love? These Easy Ground Beef Tostadas are the perfect solution. With crispy tostada shells, flavorful ground beef, creamy refried beans, and a variety of toppings, this recipe delivers bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a fun family taco night, these tostadas are sure to please.

Ingredients

8 tostada shells or corn tortillas
1 pound lean ground beef
⅓ cup water
1 ounce taco seasoning (1 packet)
1 ½ cups canned refried beans
Toppings of your choice (lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, avocado, etc.)

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Arrange the tostada shells on a baking sheet.

Step 2:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Step 3:
Add the water and taco seasoning to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine, and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.

Step 4:
While the beef is cooking, heat the refried beans. You can warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 5:
Place the tostada shells in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until they are warm and crispy. If using corn tortillas, lightly spray them with oil before baking to achieve a crisp texture.

Step 6:
To assemble, spread a generous layer of warmed refried beans onto each tostada shell. Top with the seasoned ground beef.

Step 7:
Add your favorite toppings, such as shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, diced avocado, or jalapeños. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with seasoned black beans or a plant-based protein.
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or shredded pork instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
Homemade Tostadas: Fry corn tortillas in a little oil until golden and crispy for a homemade touch.

Cooking Notes

For extra crispy shells, bake the tostada shells a little longer, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
You can double the recipe for larger gatherings or meal prep for the week.
If your refried beans are too thick, stir in a tablespoon of water or milk to thin them out for easier spreading.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these tostadas with Mexican rice or a side of guacamole for a complete meal. For a fresh, tangy balance, serve alongside a crisp lime-dressed salad or corn salsa.

Tips

Prep Ahead: Cook the ground beef and warm the refried beans ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.
Customizable Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings like chopped onions, cilantro, or pickled jalapeños to let everyone build their perfect tostada.
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover ground beef and refried beans in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 420
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

1. Can I make these tostadas gluten-free?
Yes! Use certified gluten-free tostada shells and taco seasoning to make this recipe gluten-free.

2. How can I prevent the tostadas from becoming soggy?
Spread the refried beans and ground beef evenly and avoid overloading the shells with toppings. Serve immediately to maintain crispiness.

3. Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely! A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt makes a great homemade taco seasoning.

4. What’s the best way to reheat tostadas?
Reheat the ground beef and beans separately, then assemble fresh tostadas on warmed shells to retain their crispy texture.

These Easy Ground Beef Tostadas are a delicious and versatile meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With endless topping options and minimal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!