Ground Beef Tostadas with Refried Beans and Lettuce are a classic Mexican-inspired dish that brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way. Crispy tostada shells create the perfect base for layers of creamy refried beans, seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, and fresh toppings.

This recipe offers a satisfying combination of textures—crunchy, creamy, and savory—that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving a crowd, these tostadas are flavorful, customizable, and incredibly fun to assemble and enjoy.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is incredibly easy to prepare while still delivering big, bold flavors. The seasoned ground beef pairs beautifully with the smooth refried beans, and the crisp shell adds a delicious crunch that brings everything together.

It’s also one of the most versatile dishes you can make—everyone gets to build their tostada exactly the way they like. The recipe uses budget-friendly ingredients, comes together quickly, and always tastes like comfort food done right.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it offers a restaurant-quality experience using everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s hearty, satisfying, and customizable for any preference or dietary need.

The balance of textures makes these tostadas truly enjoyable, and the recipe works equally well for family dinners, parties, or meal prep. If you enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with a simple, homemade touch, these tostadas are guaranteed to become part of your regular rotation.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, Calories, Course & Cuisine

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 tostadas
Calories: Approximately 280 calories per tostada
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup tomato sauce or salsa

For the Tostadas

• 8 tostada shells (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
• 1 avocado or guacamole (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the ground beef with onion and garlic until browned.
2. Add spices and tomato sauce; simmer until thickened.
3. Warm refried beans in a pot or microwave.
4. Lay out tostada shells and layer them with beans, beef, lettuce, cheese, and toppings.
5. Serve immediately for best texture.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook while breaking it apart.
3. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pan.
4. Cook until beef is fully browned and onions are soft.
5. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
6. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Stir in tomato sauce or salsa.
8. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
9. Warm the refried beans in a saucepan over low heat.
10. Lay tostada shells on a flat surface.
11. Spread 2 tablespoons of refried beans on each tostada shell.
12. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture on top.
13. Sprinkle shredded lettuce over the beef layer.
14. Add shredded cheese on top of the lettuce.
15. Layer on tomatoes, onions, sour cream, or avocado as desired.
16. Serve immediately while the shells are crisp.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, or corn salad for a complete meal.
• Offer a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own tostada.
• Pair with salsa, hot sauce, or lime wedges for added flavor.
• Best served immediately to preserve the crispy shell.

Recipe Tips

• Heat tostada shells briefly in the oven for extra crispiness.
• Do not overload the shells; too much filling can cause breakage.
• Add a little water to refried beans if they are too thick for spreading.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor.

Variations

• Chicken Tostadas: Swap ground beef for shredded or diced chicken.
• Spicy Tostadas: Add jalapeños, hot salsa, or chipotle peppers.
• Vegetarian Tostadas: Increase the beans, add corn, sauteed veggies, or plant-based meat.
• Street-Style Tostadas: Top with shredded cabbage, Mexican crema, and pickled onions.
• Breakfast Tostadas: Add scrambled eggs, salsa, and avocado.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator:

• Store beef mixture for up to 3–4 days.
• Refried beans last up to 5 days.
• Keep toppings and shells separately to prevent softening.

Freezer:

• Beef mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Do not freeze assembled tostadas as the shells become soggy.

Reheating:

• Warm beef mixture in a skillet or microwave.
• Re-crisp tostada shells in the oven for 4–5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• Spatula
• Baking sheet (optional for crisping tostadas)

FAQ

Can I use homemade tostada shells?
Yes. Bake corn tortillas brushed with oil at 400°F until crisp.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Prepare all components ahead but assemble just before serving.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely—ground turkey works beautifully with the same seasonings.

Why are my tostadas getting soggy?
Assemble right before serving and avoid spreading too much bean mixture.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Tostadas with Refried Beans and Lettuce are simple, vibrant, and full of authentic Mexican-inspired flavors. They offer the perfect combination of convenience and satisfaction, making them ideal for family dinners, parties, or quick weeknight meals. With endless topping options, customizable fillings, and crisp textures, this recipe is one you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Enjoy building, layering, and savoring every bite of these delicious tostadas.