Tostadas with Refried Beans

These Tostadas with Refried Beans are the ultimate quick and satisfying meal. The crunchy tostadas are topped with creamy, warm refried beans and piled high with fresh, vibrant toppings. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a tasty snack, or a dinner that’s both light and filling, these tostadas are sure to hit the spot. Plus, with the option to customize the toppings, they can be made just the way you like!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love simple, delicious, and customizable meals, this recipe is perfect for you. The crispiness of the tostada combined with the creaminess of refried beans, fresh vegetables, and tangy sour cream makes every bite irresistible. It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that’s packed with flavor, making it a great option for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine. Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 8 corn tostadas

• 1 can (16 oz) refried beans

• 1 cup shredded lettuce

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup chopped red onion

• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the Beans: In a small saucepan, heat the refried beans over medium heat until warm, stirring occasionally.

2. Assemble the Tostadas: Spread a generous layer of refried beans on each tostada.

3. Top the Tostadas: Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and red onion on top of the beans.

4. Add Cheese and Herbs: Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco and chopped cilantro over the toppings.

5. Finish with Sour Cream and Lime: Drizzle sour cream over the tostadas and squeeze fresh lime juice on top.

6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Substitute the Beans: If you prefer, you can swap the refried beans for black beans or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor.

• Add Avocado: For extra creaminess and flavor, add sliced avocado to your tostadas.

• Make it Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

• More Veggies: You can also include other fresh toppings like corn, bell peppers, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These tostadas are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator. Keep the toppings and tostadas separate to maintain the crispiness of the tostadas.

• Reheating: Reheat the tostadas in the oven to restore some of their crunchiness. Warm the refried beans in the microwave or on the stove before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use homemade tostadas instead of store-bought?

Yes, you can easily make homemade tostadas by frying or baking corn tortillas until crispy.

Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a lighter or vegan option.

How can I make these tostadas spicier?

To add more heat, top with sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or some spicy salsa.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or pork to the refried beans for added protein and flavor.

Are these tostadas gluten-free?

Yes, corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making these tostadas a great gluten-free option.

How can I make these tostadas ahead of time?

You can prepare the refried beans and toppings ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the tostadas when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftover tostadas?

While the tostadas themselves can become soggy when frozen, you can freeze the refried beans for later use. Reheat and assemble the tostadas fresh when ready.

Can I use any type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like feta, cotija, or cheddar as a substitute for queso fresco.

Can I add more vegetables to the toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like cucumbers, radishes, or avocado to suit your taste.

How do I make these tostadas less salty?

To reduce the saltiness, use low-sodium refried beans and skip the additional salt in the recipe, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

Conclusion

These Tostadas with Refried Beans are a quick, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The combination of crispy tostadas, creamy refried beans, and fresh toppings creates a satisfying meal that’s full of texture and flavor. Whether you enjoy them as a light snack or a main course, these tostadas are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!