Cheesy Beef Tostadas
Cheesy Beef Tostadas deliver a mouthwatering experience with crispy tortillas, savory beef, and a luscious cheese sauce.
Ingredients
For the Tostadas
- 8 small small corn tortillas golden and crisp
- Vegetable oil Vegetable oil for frying adds perfect crispiness
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef tender and juicy
- 1 tbsp olive oil fragrant and smooth
- 1 small onion finely diced for sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic minced for aromatic depth
- 1 tsp chili powder brings heat and color
- 1/2 tsp cumin offering earthy notes
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika adding a rich, smoky flavor
- 1/2 tsp oregano providing herbal freshness
- Salt and black pepper to taste Salt and black pepper to taste for seasoning
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce tangy and rich
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter creamy and rich
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for thickening
- 1 cup milk silky and smooth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese gooey and melty
- 1/2 tsp paprika for an added color boost
For Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce crisp and refreshing
- 1 medium tomato diced for juicy sweetness
- 1/2 cup cilantro chopped for a fresh finish
- Lime wedges Lime wedges for serving adding a zesty tang
Instructions
Prepare the Tostadas
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully fry the corn tortillas until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Cook the Beef
- In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and pour in tomato sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking to eliminate lumps. Cook until thickened and stir in cheddar cheese and paprika.
Assemble the Tostadas
- On a serving plate, place each tortilla. Spoon beef mixture onto the tortillas, drizzle warm cheese sauce over the top, and finish with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Notes
Fry tortillas until golden brown, do not rush simmering beef mixture, whisk constantly for smooth cheese sauce.