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Cheesy Beef Tostadas

Delightful crispy corn tortillas topped with savory ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and vibrant fresh toppings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tostadas
  • 8 pieces small corn tortillas
For the Beef Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
For Garnishing
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
  • as needed Lime wedges

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the corn tortillas for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking the Beef
  1. In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Pour in tomato sauce and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
Making the Cheese Sauce
  1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  2. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and paprika, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Assembling the Tostadas
  1. Place each crispy tortilla on a serving plate. Spoon the flavorful beef mixture on top, drizzle with cheese sauce, and garnish with lettuce, tomato, and cilantro.
  2. Serve with lime wedges.
Serving
  1. Enjoy your Cheesy Beef Tostadas right away while hot and delicious!

Notes

For crispiness, ensure the oil is hot enough when frying tortillas. Customize with toppings like jalapeños or sour cream. Save extra cheese sauce for dipping veggies.