Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chipotle Beef Tostadas are a bold and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring crispy tostada shells topped with spicy chipotle-seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and creamy toppings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these tostadas offer a satisfying crunch and a smoky heat that’s easy to customize and enjoy.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
corn tostada shellsground beefchipotle peppers in adobogarliconioncuminpaprikasaltolive oilblack beans (optional)shredded lettucediced tomatossour cream or Mexican cremaqueso fresco or shredded cheeselime wedgescilantro
directions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Once the beef is browned, blend chipotle peppers with a little water and add to the skillet. Mix well to coat the meat.
Add cumin, paprika, and salt. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Warm tostada shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes until crisp.
(Optional) Spread a layer of warmed black beans on each shell.
Spoon the chipotle beef onto each tostada.
Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream or crema, queso fresco, and fresh cilantro.
Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 6 tostadas.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use shredded chicken or pork instead of ground beef.
Top with avocado slices or guacamole for extra creaminess.
Add pickled red onions for a tangy crunch.
Swap black beans for refried beans if preferred.
Make it vegetarian by using crumbled tofu or lentils in place of beef.
storage/reheating
Store the chipotle beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Tostada shells should be stored separately in a sealed bag at room temperature.To reheat, warm the beef on the stove or microwave and assemble tostadas fresh for best texture.
FAQs
What are tostadas?
Tostadas are flat, crispy corn tortillas that serve as a base for toppings like meats, beans, and vegetables.
Are chipotle peppers spicy?
Yes, they have a smoky heat. You can adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef and toppings ahead, but assemble right before serving to keep the shells crisp.
Are tostadas gluten-free?
If made with corn tortillas, they are naturally gluten-free. Always check packaging to be sure.
Can I use store-bought tostada shells?
Yes, they’re a convenient option and widely available.
Can I bake the tostada shells?
Absolutely. Bake corn tortillas at 400°F for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Conclusion
Chipotle Beef Tostadas are a crowd-pleasing favorite that bring together spicy, smoky, and fresh flavors on a crispy base. With easy customization and quick prep, they’re perfect for busy nights or festive feasts. Try them once, and they’ll likely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen rotation.
Print
Chipotle Beef Tostadas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy tostadas topped with spicy chipotle-seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and creamy sauces for a bold, flavorful Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 tostada shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Warm tostada shells according to package instructions or briefly toast in the oven.
- Spoon the chipotle beef mixture evenly onto each tostada shell.
- Top with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cheese.
- Drizzle with sour cream or Mexican crema and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Adjust chipotle peppers to control heat level.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure tostada shells are certified gluten-free.
- Add refried beans as a base layer for extra texture and flavor.