Crispy, colorful, and loaded with bold flavor, these Ground Beef Tostadas bring together the best parts of taco night with the irresistible crunch of a toasted corn tortilla. Each bite is layered with seasoned beef, fresh pico de gallo, creamy sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that feels like a fiesta.

These tostadas are endlessly customizable and come together fast, making them a go-to option when you need something satisfying but fuss-free. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual get-together, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Tostadas Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Texture Heaven: Crispy, juicy, creamy, and fresh all at once.
Kid-Friendly: Let everyone build their own.
Great for Leftovers: The toppings store well for next-day lunches.
Packed with Flavor: Bold spices, tangy veggies, and creamy toppings.

What Kind of Tortillas Should I Use for Tostadas?

You want corn tortillas for that authentic crunch and deep flavor. You can buy pre-made tostada shells at most supermarkets, but making your own is just as easy. Lightly fry or bake standard corn tortillas until golden and crisp. Flour tortillas can work in a pinch, but they don’t get as crispy.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef Tostadas

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a delicious role, so let’s break it down:

Ground Beef: The star of the dish. Use lean ground beef for a less greasy result.
Corn Tortillas: These form the crispy base that holds everything together.
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the beef.
Garlic: Brings out the earthy, aromatic flavor.
Taco Seasoning: A blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano gives the beef its punch.
Tomato Paste: Intensifies the flavor of the meat mixture.
Water: Helps blend the seasoning into the beef.
Pico de Gallo: Adds freshness and brightness. You can use store-bought or make your own.
Sour Cream: For a cool, creamy contrast.
Fresh Cilantro: Finishes everything with a fresh herbal note.

How To Make the Ground Beef Tostadas

Step 1: Crisp the Tortillas

Place corn tortillas on a baking sheet and brush lightly with oil. Bake at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onions. Once no longer pink, drain any excess grease. Add garlic, taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Assemble the Tostadas

Top each crispy tortilla with a generous scoop of seasoned ground beef. Layer with pico de gallo, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for extra zing!

Serving and Storing Ground Beef Tostadas

These Ground Beef Tostadas are best served fresh when the tortillas are ultra-crispy and the toppings still cool and vibrant. That said, you can prepare all the elements in advance and store them separately in the fridge.

Beef mixture: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Toppings: Pico de gallo is best used within 1-2 days for maximum freshness.
Tortillas: Keep tostada shells in a sealed bag at room temperature to retain crispness.

This recipe makes about 6 tostadas, enough to feed 3 to 4 people comfortably.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Tostadas?

Mexican Rice

Fluffy, tomato-scented rice that complements the spices in the beef.

Refried Beans

Creamy and hearty—spread them directly onto the tostadas or serve as a side.

Street Corn (Elote)

Grilled corn slathered in mayo, cheese, and lime juice is a flavorful addition.

Guacamole

Creamy avocado dip with lime and cilantro adds richness.

Pickled Jalapeños

For a tangy, spicy kick that balances the meat.

Chips and Salsa

Simple, classic, and always welcome on taco night.

Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca

A refreshing drink to balance out the savory elements.

Mango Salsa

A sweet and tangy topping or side that adds a tropical twist.

Want More Beef Ideas with a Twist?

If these Ground Beef Tostadas made your mouth water, you’ll love these next:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a spicy twist or go traditional? Did you add guacamole or a different topping?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make the tastiest meals possible.

Explore beautifully curated family dinner favorites and bold beef recipes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next weeknight winner!

Ground Beef Tostadas

Author: Nora
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 tostadas

Print Recipe

Description

Ready in under 30 minutes, these Ground Beef Tostadas are a crunchy, flavor-packed meal that turns a few pantry staples into a satisfying fiesta. With crispy corn tortillas as the base, they’re piled high with seasoned ground beef, fresh pico de gallo, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cilantro. This recipe is perfect for quick dinners, casual parties, or a DIY taco night. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner recipes, weeknight food ideas, or something deliciously different, these tostadas hit every mark for flavor and speed.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and arrange the tortillas on a baking sheet. Lightly brush with oil and bake for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Add garlic, taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

4. Remove the tostadas from the oven.

5. Spoon the seasoned beef onto each crispy tortilla.

6. Top with pico de gallo, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

7. Serve warm with lime wedges if desired.