Loaded Beef Tostadas

Loaded beef tostadas are crispy, flavor-packed Mexican-inspired dishes featuring crunchy tostada shells topped with seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, fresh toppings, and melted cheese. These tostadas are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, offering a delightful combination of textures and bold flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, salsa, or sour cream.
• Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of crunchy tostada shells with savory beef and fresh toppings is irresistible.
• Great for a Crowd: Serve these as a fun, build-your-own meal for family dinners or gatherings.
• Authentic Mexican Flavors: Seasoned beef, beans, and vibrant toppings create a delicious and traditional dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Tostadas:

• Corn tostada shells
• Refried beans (canned or homemade)

For the Beef:

• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Taco seasoning (or a mix of cumin, chili powder, paprika, and oregano)
• Tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Sour cream
• Avocado or guacamole
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Hot sauce (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
   • Stir in the taco seasoning and tomato sauce, simmering for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

2. Heat the Beans:

   • Warm the refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

3. Assemble the Tostadas:

   • Spread a layer of warm refried beans onto each tostada shell.
   • Spoon the seasoned beef over the beans.
   • Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, allowing it to slightly melt.
   • Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any additional toppings of choice.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Drizzle with sour cream, hot sauce, or guacamole for extra flavor. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6 tostadas
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Tostadas: Swap ground beef for shredded or grilled chicken.
• Vegetarian Option: Use black beans or lentils instead of beef for a plant-based version.
• Seafood Tostadas: Use grilled shrimp or fish for a lighter, coastal-inspired variation.
• Extra Spicy: Add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a dash of cayenne to the beef.
• Cheesy Baked Tostadas: Sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2–3 minutes until melted and bubbly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover beef and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the beef and beans in a skillet or microwave before assembling fresh tostadas.
• Freezing: The seasoned beef can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before using.

FAQs

Can I make my own tostada shells?

Yes, you can bake or fry corn tortillas until crispy instead of using store-bought tostada shells.

How do I keep tostadas from getting soggy?

Spread a thin layer of refried beans on the shell before adding toppings to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works well with the same seasonings.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese melts well and adds great flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef and toppings in advance, but assemble the tostadas just before serving to maintain crispiness.

What sides go well with tostadas?

Serve with Mexican rice, chips and salsa, or a fresh corn salad for a complete meal.

Can I add beans to the beef mixture?

Yes, mixing black beans or pinto beans with the beef adds extra protein and texture.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free corn tostadas and check that your seasonings and beans are gluten-free.

Are tostadas spicy?

The spice level depends on the seasoning and toppings. You can adjust the heat by adding or omitting spicy ingredients.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and replace sour cream with avocado or dairy-free yogurt.

Conclusion

Loaded beef tostadas are a delicious, crispy, and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer classic toppings or want to get creative with different flavors, this dish is a perfect addition to your dinner rotation. Serve them fresh and enjoy a bite of bold, authentic taste!

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Yield: 8 tostadas 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

These loaded beef tostadas are crispy, flavorful, and topped with seasoned beef, cheese, and fresh veggies. A delicious Mexican-inspired meal!

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 tostada shells
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

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Instructions

• Cook beef with taco seasoning until browned.
• Spread refried beans on tostada shells.
• Add beef, cheese, and bake at 375°F for 5 minutes.
• Top with sour cream, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
• Serve immediately.

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Notes

• Customize with guacamole or jalapeños.
• Use shredded chicken as an alternative.