Crispy tortillas topped with seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and creamy goodness! These Beef Tostadas are a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
- Customizable: Load them with your favorite toppings.
- Crowd Favorite: Great for family dinners or parties!
Ingredients
For the Tostadas:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying, or use store-bought tostada shells)
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup guacamole
- Optional: Sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Tostada Shells:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry each tortilla for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels. Alternatively, bake tortillas at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until crisp, flipping halfway.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in taco seasoning, chili powder, tomato sauce, and a splash of water if needed. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Tostadas:
- Spread a layer of the seasoned beef over each tostada shell. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and let everyone customize their toppings for a fun, interactive meal!
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serving: Pair with Mexican rice, refried beans, or chips and salsa for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftover beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling tostadas.
Helpful Notes
- Shortcut: Use store-bought tostada shells to save time.
- Meat Options: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.
- Crispy Tip: Don’t overload the shells to keep them crispy longer.
FAQs
Can I make tostadas ahead of time?
You can prepare the shells and beef ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep them crisp.
What’s the best cheese for tostadas?
Mexican blend, cheddar, or queso fresco work great!
Can I bake instead of frying the tortillas?
Yes! Brush tortillas lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
