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Cheesy Beef Tostadas

A flavorful dish combining crispy tortillas with savory ground beef and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tostadas
  • 8 pieces small corn tortillas Golden and crispy, serves as the perfect base.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil For frying; offers that satisfying crunch.
For the Beef Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef Juicy and packed with flavor.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Adds richness while cooking.
  • 1 small onion, finely diced Provides sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor with aroma.
  • 1 tsp chili powder Adds a nice kick.
  • 1/2 tsp cumin Adds warmth.
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Introduces a smoky undertone.
  • 1/2 tsp oregano Offers a herbal note.
  • to taste salt and black pepper Balances overall flavors.
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce Adds moisture and tanginess.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter Richens the cheese sauce.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 1 cup milk Creates a creamy texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese The star of the show.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika For color in the sauce.
For the Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce Adds freshness.
  • 1 piece tomato, diced For a juicy burst.
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped Herbaceous garnish.
  • as needed lime wedges For zest.

Method
 

Prepare the Tostadas
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the corn tortillas, one at a time, for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden and crispy. Once done, place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Cook the Beef
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Introduce the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add the ground beef, cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper, stirring well and then adding the tomato sauce. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour, whisking until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking until the mixture thickens. Stir in the cheddar cheese and paprika until melted and smooth.
Assemble the Tostadas
  1. Take each tortilla and place it on a plate. Add a spoonful of the beef mixture, drizzle with cheese sauce, and top with lettuce, diced tomato, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Serve and Enjoy
  1. Cheesy Beef Tostadas are best enjoyed fresh with crispy tortillas and hot fillings.

Notes

For extra flavor in the beef, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce. For spiciness, consider adding jalapeños. You can also customize toppings as per your preference.