Tostada Pie
A savory layered casserole combining seasoned beef, crispy corn chips, beans, and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of tomato sauce and the taco seasoning mix to the beef, stirring well.
- Line the bottom of a bread pan with 2 cups of corn chips.
- Spoon the meat mixture over the corn chips.
- Mix the remaining tomato sauce with the refried beans and spread on top of the meat layer.
- Crush the remaining chips and sprinkle over the beans.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
- If the cheese has not melted, return to oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a bit more flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers when browning the ground beef. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for a meat substitute or extra beans. You can also use crushed tortilla chips instead of corn chips for added texture. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tostada Pie with a side of fresh guacamole or salsa to enhance the flavors. A simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette pairs nicely, balancing the richness of the dish. This recipe is perfect for gatherings and can be served alongside other Mexican recipes like L.A. Fajitas for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tostada Pie contains roughly 871 calories, with 30g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1087mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Tostada Pie a day in advance. Layer the ingredients in the pan and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of corn chips?
If you don't have corn chips, you can use crushed tortilla chips, or even nacho cheese chips for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can layer the mixture between soft tortillas for a twist on the classic presentation.
Can I freeze Tostada Pie?
Yes, you can freeze Tostada Pie before baking. Assemble the layers, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed, adding extra time if necessary to ensure it’s heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).