Crispy Oven Beef and Bean Tostadas are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired dish perfect for any meal. These tostadas feature a crispy shell topped with seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and a variety of fresh toppings. Originating from traditional Mexican cuisine, tostadas are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or even a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Tostadas
- 8 tostada shells (store-bought or homemade, see recipe below)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
Tostada Shell Recipe
- 8 corn tortillas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Making the Tostada Shells
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Tortillas: Brush both sides of each corn tortilla with vegetable oil and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake for 5-7 minutes, flip them over, and bake for another 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Season: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt while they are still warm.
Preparing the Beef and Beans
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Season: Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Heat Beans: In a small saucepan, heat the refried beans over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Assembling the Tostadas
- Base Layer: Spread a generous layer of refried beans on each tostada shell.
- Add Beef: Top the beans with a portion of the seasoned ground beef.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and sliced black olives (if using) over the beef.
- Final Touches: Drizzle with sour cream and salsa before serving.
Tips and Variations
Tips
- Crispy Shells: Ensure your tortillas are completely dry before brushing with oil for the crispiest results.
- Even Layer: Spread the beans and beef in an even layer to prevent the toppings from sliding off.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Variations
- Chicken Tostadas: Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken seasoned with taco seasoning.
- Vegetarian: Replace the beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
- Layered Tostada: Create a layered tostada by stacking two or more tostada shells with fillings in between.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Substitutions
- Refried Beans: Use black beans or pinto beans if you prefer.
- Cheese: Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Sour Cream: Use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
Conclusion
Crispy Oven Beef and Bean Tostadas are a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and texture to your table. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these tostadas are sure to be a hit. They are easy to prepare and customizable to suit everyone’s taste. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments below. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal, and make sure to explore other delicious recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com.