Easy Ground Beef Tostadas (Print Version)

Crispy shells loaded with ground beef, beans, cheese, and toppings make for a fast, flavorful meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Beef Filling

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1/2 white onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1 can (14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes, drained
11 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ For Assembly

12 - 8 tostada shells
13 - 2 cups refried beans, store-bought or homemade
14 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
15 - 2 cups shredded lettuce
16 - 1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
17 - 1/4 cup chopped onion

# Steps:

01 - Heat refried beans in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a small amount of water if needed to achieve a spreadable consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste and keep warm.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
03 - Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until beef is browned and cooked through, about 4 minutes.
04 - Incorporate drained diced tomatoes into the beef mixture. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 to 7 minutes.
05 - Spread a layer of warm refried beans onto each tostada shell. Top with a generous scoop of seasoned beef mixture, followed by shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and onion.
06 - Arrange assembled tostadas on a platter and serve immediately while toppings are fresh.

# Notes:

01 - For a lighter texture, add a bit of water or broth to refried beans when reheating.
02 - Tostada shells should be assembled just before serving to maintain crispness.