Refried Beans and Ground Beef Tostadas Recipe
Tostadas are a classic Mexican dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This recipe for Refried Beans and Ground Beef Tostadas is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The crispiness of the tostada shells, the creaminess of the refried beans, and the savory richness of the seasoned ground beef come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Refried Beans:
- 2 cups canned or homemade refried beans
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/4 cup milk or water (optional for thinning)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Tostada Shells:
- 8 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying or cooking spray for baking
Toppings (optional but recommended):
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Pickled jalapeños
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return it to the stove.
- Season the beef with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
- Pour in the beef broth or water, and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Refried Beans:
- In another skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the refried beans to the skillet, stirring occasionally until they’re heated through.
- If the beans are too thick, add a bit of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and the beans are creamy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Tostada Shells:
Frying Method:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place one tortilla in the oil. Fry for about 1 minute on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the tostada from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Baking Method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the tortillas on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with oil or spray with cooking spray.
- Bake for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re crispy and golden brown.
4. Assemble the Tostadas:
- Spread a generous layer of refried beans on each tostada shell.
- Top the beans with a scoop of the seasoned ground beef.
- Add your desired toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream, crumbled queso fresco, and fresh cilantro.
5. Serve:
- Serve the tostadas immediately, with lime wedges and pickled jalapeños on the side for an extra kick.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini as a topping.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the ground beef for extra heat.
- Tostada Shells: For a healthier version, opt for baked tostada shells instead of fried ones.
These Refried Beans and Ground Beef Tostadas are sure to be a hit. The combination of flavors is comforting, yet the crispiness of the tostada and freshness of the toppings keep it light and exciting. Enjoy!