Easy Baked Tostadas
Tostadas are a delightful and versatile dish that can bring a burst of flavor to your table in no time. With their crispy corn base and endless topping possibilities, they are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. This recipe for Easy Baked Tostadas is not only simple but also allows for customization according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch of crispy, cheesy tostadas that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why It Deserves a Spot
Easy Baked Tostadas are a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and quick. Additionally, tostadas are a fantastic way to use up leftovers or ingredients you have on hand. You can get creative with toppings, making them suitable for anyone at the table. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, which means you can enjoy a crispy texture without the extra oil.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cups refried beans
- 2 teaspoons Homemade Taco Seasoning or store-bought taco seasoning
- 8 ounces colby jack cheese, shredded
- Lettuce, tomatoes, corn, onions, sour cream, avocado, etc., for serving
Tools of the Trade
- Baking sheet – to crisp up the tortillas in the oven.
- Brush or spray bottle – for applying olive oil to the tortillas.
- Mixing bowl – to combine refried beans and taco seasoning.
- Spatula – for spreading the bean mixture evenly on the tortillas.
- Oven – for baking the tostadas to achieve that perfect crunch.
Easy Baked Tostadas in Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your tostadas get nice and crispy while baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Lay your small corn tortillas flat on a baking sheet. Use a brush or spray bottle to lightly coat each tortilla with extra virgin olive oil. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 3: Bake the Tortillas
Bake the tortillas in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 4: Mix the Beans and Seasoning
While the tortillas are baking, combine the refried beans and taco seasoning in a mixing bowl. Stir until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the beans.
Step 5: Assemble the Tostadas
Once the tortillas are baked, remove them from the oven. Spread a generous layer of the seasoned refried beans onto each tortilla.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese evenly over the beans on each tostada. The cheese will melt beautifully as the tostadas bake again.
Step 7: Bake Again
Return the assembled tostadas to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve with Toppings
Once out of the oven, let the tostadas cool for a minute, then top them with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, corn, onions, sour cream, and avocado. Enjoy your Easy Baked Tostadas while they’re warm!
Smart Substitutions
- For a healthier option, use whole wheat tortillas instead of corn tortillas.
- Swap out colby jack cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.
- Use black beans or pinto beans instead of refried beans for a different flavor profile.
- Try adding cooked chicken or ground turkey for extra protein on your tostadas.
Chef’s Notes
- Feel free to customize your toppings based on what you have available. Fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice can elevate the flavors.
- If you’re short on time, canned refried beans work perfectly in this recipe.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce or salsa to the bean mixture.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet; leave space between the tortillas to ensure even cooking.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
Once your Easy Baked Tostadas are assembled and topped, they are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To rewarm, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain that crispy texture.
Common Qs About Easy Baked Tostadas
Can I make Easy Baked Tostadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the refried beans and pre-bake the tortillas in advance. Assemble the tostadas just before serving, adding cheese and toppings before a quick bake to melt the cheese.
What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning with a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. Adjust the spices to your taste!
Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegetarian since it uses refried beans and cheese. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I freeze the tostadas?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the fully assembled tostadas, you can freeze the tortillas and refried beans separately. Just thaw and assemble fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
The Takeaway
Easy Baked Tostadas are not just a meal; they are an experience of flavors and fun! Perfectly crisp tortillas topped with savory beans and gooey cheese create a delightful harmony that is hard to resist. The best part is their versatility; you can customize them to suit your taste, making them a great option for family dinners, gatherings, or a casual night in.
In conclusion, this recipe for Easy Baked Tostadas is a must-try for anyone looking to bring a little zest to their meal rotation. With minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and the ability to adapt to any dietary preference, these tostadas will surely become a favorite in your home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
Easy Baked Tostadas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your tostadas get nice and crispy while baking.
- Lay your small corn tortillas flat on a baking sheet. Use a brush or spray bottle to lightly coat each tortilla with extra virgin olive oil.
- Bake the tortillas in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and crispy.
- While the tortillas are baking, combine the refried beans and taco seasoning in a mixing bowl. Stir until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the beans.
- Once the tortillas are baked, remove them from the oven. Spread a generous layer of the seasoned refried beans onto each tortilla.
- Sprinkle the shredded colby jack cheese evenly over the beans on each tostada.
- Return the assembled tostadas to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, let the tostadas cool for a minute, then top them with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Feel free to customize your toppings based on what you have available.
- If you're short on time, canned refried beans work perfectly.
- For an extra kick, consider adding hot sauce or salsa to the bean mixture.
