Ground beef tostadas

Ingredients:

For the Ground Beef:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Tostadas:

• 8 tostada shells
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream, for serving
• Sliced jalapeños, for serving (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine all the spices with the meat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tostada shells on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5 minutes, or until they become crisp.
5. To assemble the tostadas, spread a layer of refried beans on each tostada shell.
6. Top the beans with a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef.
7. Layer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef.
8. Optionally, add sliced jalapeños for some heat.
9. Drizzle sour cream over the assembled tostadas.
10. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

. Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of this soulful dish!