These tostadas made with mashed pinto beans are piled high with salsa, veggies, and cheese for a satisfying (and fun!) weeknight meal.
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With the sun working overtime during these hot summer months, I’ve got tacos on my mind (and tortillas in my fridge) 24/7. I love how balanced and fresh Mexican-inspired cuisine can be, and these tostadas are no exception! Crispy tortillas are piled high with mashed pinto beans, salsa, veggies, and cheese for a different spin on your typical taco night. Plus, I love that I can use up any leftover tortillas I have on hand so nothing goes to waste! These are super customizable based on your family’s preferences, so you can add or omit just about anything you want.
What Is A Tostada?
The word “tostada” translates to “toasted” in reference to the crispy toasted tortilla shell that serves as the base of the dish. It’s sort of like a flattened taco piled high with filling. It’s also a great way to use up the last of those leftover tortillas that are starting to go stale!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tostadas:
- Onion: I used white onion because it was on sale, but yellow or Vidalia will also work well in this recipe.
- Jalapeño: Adds a bit of heat to the filling.
- Olive Oil: Helps the filling cook without burning. Neutral cooking oils like canola or vegetable also work well.
- Pinto Beans: Create a mushy, refried bean-like texture. If you have some leftover, our favorite (Not) Refried Beans can also work well in this recipe!
- Taco Seasoning: An easy way to add classic Mexican flavors.
- Water: Helps make the beans easier to mash.
- Salsa: Adds freshness to the tostadas. I love this Fire Roasted Salsa, but store-bought works just fine.
- Tostada Shells: These small, crunchy corn tortillas are like a flat hard taco shell. A Mexican open-faced sandwich, if you will!
- Radishes: Add a delightful, fresh crunch!
- Slaw Mix: A cheap and easy hack to add extra veggies to this dish.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tanginess.
- Cilantro: Adds a pop of freshness and color.
- Avocado: Adds a creamy texture. Guacamole also works well.
- Queso Fresco: Can’t find queso fresco or cotija cheese? Cheddar cheese will do just fine, or omit it altogether.
What Is the Difference Between A Tostada and a Tortilla?
A tostada is a tortilla that has been baked or fried until it is crispy. You can purchase ready-made tostada shells from popular brands like Old El Paso, or you can make your own by baking 6-inch corn tortillas until toasted and crispy.
How to Eat A Tostada
Tostadas are finger foods, so use your hands, not a fork and knife! I like the two-handed method of holding the edges of the tostada and taking bites like a slice of toast. I also like to crack the tostadas into smaller pieces and eat it in smaller bites that way.
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