Can I make these tostadas gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute corn tortillas for the flour ones. Corn tortillas actually make very traditional tostadas and crisp up beautifully in the oven or air fryer. Just be sure to check that your refried beans and other toppings are also gluten-free.

How can I make these tostadas lower in calories?

Several easy swaps can lighten these up: use extra-lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey, opt for fat-free refried beans, increase the vegetable toppings, and use a light hand with the cheese. The Greek yogurt is already a great lower-calorie substitute for sour cream!

My tortillas aren't getting crispy enough. What am I doing wrong?

This typically happens when the oven temperature isn't high enough or if the tortillas have too much moisture. Make sure your oven is fully preheated, don't overdo the oil spray, and consider extending the baking time by a minute or two on each side until they reach your desired crispness.

Can I use store-bought tostada shells to save time?

Definitely! Pre-made tostada shells are a great time-saver and work perfectly in this recipe. Just warm them briefly in the oven before assembling to enhance their flavor and crispness.

Beef and Bean Tostadas Recipe

Description

Crunchy, flavorful beef and bean tostadas made with low-carb tortillas, seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and topped with fresh toppings like lettuce, salsa, cheese, Greek yogurt, and radish. This healthier twist on traditional tostadas is quick to prepare, high in protein, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Tostadas:

2 La Banderita carb counter flour tortillas
Olive oil spray
Salt, to taste
Paprika, to taste

Taco Meat & Seasoning:

1 tsp salt
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp paprika
2 tbsp chili powder
1.5 tbsp cumin
Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
1 lb ground beef

Toppings:

Refried beans (120g for 2 tostadas)
Chopped lettuce
Chopped red onion
Fresh salsa (2 tbsp)
Reduced fat Mexican cheese blend (14g)
Greek nonfat yogurt (25g)
Finely diced radish
Hot sauce (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Tostadas: Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C). Lightly spray both sides of the tortillas with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and paprika. Place tortillas on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes per side, then flip and bake for another 2 minutes per side, and finish with 1 minute per side, until the tortillas are golden and crispy.
Cook the Taco Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 2 tsp paprika, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1.5 tbsp cumin, and fresh cracked pepper with a splash of water to form a slurry paste. Pour the seasoning slurry over the cooked beef, stir well, and let simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Prepare the Toppings: While the meat simmers, chop the lettuce and red onion, prepare fresh salsa, grate cheese if needed, and dice the radish. Set out all toppings for assembly.
Assemble the Tostadas: Spread a layer of refried beans on each crisp tortilla. Top with taco meat, followed by chopped lettuce, red onion, salsa, reduced fat cheese, Greek yogurt, and finely diced radish. Add hot sauce if desired.
Serve: Enjoy your beef and bean tostadas immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.

Notes

For convenience, you can use store-bought tostada shells instead of making your own.
Ground chicken or pork can be used in place of beef for a different flavor and lighter option.
Customize toppings to your taste—include avocado, jalapeños, or corn for variety.
Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute for sour cream.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tostadas
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 940mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 70mg