🌮 Refried Beans & Ground Beef Tostadas
🧂 Ingredients (Makes about 6–8 tostadas):
For the Beef:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt (or to taste)
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¼ cup water or beef broth
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Optional: 1 tbsp tomato paste or taco sauce
For the Base:
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1 (15 oz) can refried beans (or homemade)
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6–8 corn tostada shells (store-bought or homemade*)
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1–2 cups shredded lettuce
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1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
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½ cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
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¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
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1 avocado or guacamole (optional)
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Fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, or hot sauce for garnish
🍳 Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced onion until soft (about 3 minutes).
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Add ground beef, breaking it up as it browns.
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Drain excess fat if needed.
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Stir in garlic, spices, tomato paste (if using), and water/broth.
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Simmer for 5–7 minutes until beef is well-seasoned and saucy. Set aside.
2. Warm the Beans:
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Heat refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat until soft and spreadable.
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Add a splash of water or broth if too thick.
3. Assemble the Tostadas:
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Spread a layer of warm refried beans on each tostada shell.
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Top with a spoonful of seasoned ground beef.
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Add shredded lettuce, cheese, tomatoes or pico, avocado, and a drizzle of sour cream or crema.
4. Garnish & Serve:
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Sprinkle with cilantro, jalapeños, or hot sauce to taste.
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Serve immediately while the shells are crispy.
📝 Optional Add-ons:
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Pickled red onions
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Crumbled cotija cheese
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Lime wedges on the side
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Fried egg on top (for brunch-style tostadas!)
*Make Your Own Tostada Shells:
Brush corn tortillas with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 min per side, or air fry until crispy.
Want a vegetarian version or how to make refried beans from scratch? I can help with that too!