Tostado Bake
A hearty baked Mexican-inspired dish featuring seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cheesy topping, and a savory biscuit crust, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Cook and stir ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning mix, tomato sauce, and refried beans.
- In a separate bowl, combine Bisquick, cornmeal, milk, and beaten egg to make the biscuit batter.
- Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the biscuit batter evenly over the beef mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick. For added flavor, sauté onions and garlic with the beef before adding the seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tostado Bake with a side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. A simple green salad or corn on the cob pairs well to balance the richness of the dish. For a Mexican-inspired feast, consider serving it alongside other favorites like Southwest Black Bean Chili or Texas Taco Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. You can also freeze the dish before baking; just thaw and bake as directed when ready to serve.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tostado Bake contains roughly 748 calories, with 18g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 972mg per serving (42% 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 beef mixture and biscuit batter in advance. Assemble the dish but bake it just before serving. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed for a quick and easy meal.
What can I substitute for the sour cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream. You can also use cream cheese for a richer flavor. Just ensure to mix it well with the other ingredients to maintain a smooth consistency.
How can I make this vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Use black beans or lentils instead of refried beans to add protein. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors while keeping it meat-free.
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).