Refried Bean Tostadas
Crispy fried corn tortillas piled high with savory refried beans and your favorite fresh toppings. A quick, customizable, and delicious Tex-Mex classic perfect for a weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Toppings
- b.Wash and prepare all your fresh toppings: shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, and chop the cilantro.
- c.Crumble the cotija cheese and cut the lime into wedges.
- d.Set all toppings aside in separate bowls for easy assembly later.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Heat the Refried Beans
- b.In a small saucepan, heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- c.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- d.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- e.Add the can of refried beans, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and water. Stir until well combined.
- f.Reduce heat to low and let the beans simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until smooth and heated through. Keep warm.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Tostada Shells
- b.Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don't have a thermometer, a small piece of tortilla should sizzle immediately.
- c.Working one at a time, carefully slide a corn tortilla into the hot oil. Fry for 30-60 seconds per side, using tongs to flip, until it is golden brown, rigid, and crispy.
- d.Remove the fried tortilla from the skillet, allowing excess oil to drip off. Place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- e.Immediately sprinkle the hot tostada shell with a pinch of salt.
- f.Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.To assemble, take a warm, crispy tostada shell and spread a generous layer of the hot refried beans over it.
- c.Layer with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled cotija cheese.
- d.Finish with a drizzle of Mexican crema and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
- e.Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Assemble tostadas just before serving to prevent the shells from becoming soggy.
- 2For perfectly flat tostadas, gently press down on the center of the tortilla with tongs for the first few seconds of frying.
- 3Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the tortillas; otherwise, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
- 4Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the beans on the stovetop and re-crisp the shells in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Top the beans with seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken (tinga), chorizo, or carnitas for a heartier meal.
Healthier OptionHealthier Option
For a lower-fat version, bake the tortillas instead of frying. Lightly brush each side with oil, place on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp.
Bean VariationsBean Variations
Instead of refried pinto beans, use refried black beans or whole, seasoned black beans.
Extra ToppingsExtra Toppings
Customize with additional toppings like sliced avocado or guacamole, pickled red onions, sliced jalapeños, or your favorite salsa.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
The refried beans and fresh vegetable toppings provide a significant amount of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, regulating blood sugar, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Provides Essential Nutrients
This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from its various components. Tomatoes offer Vitamin C and lycopene, cilantro provides Vitamin K, and beans contribute iron and magnesium.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of two Refried Bean Tostadas, prepared as per this recipe, contains approximately 480-520 calories. The final count can vary based on the amount of oil absorbed and the specific toppings used.