Turkey Tostadas
Turkey Tostadas are a delightful twist on traditional Mexican fare, bringing together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With a crispy tortilla base topped with seasoned ground turkey, creamy refried beans, fresh veggies, and all your favorite garnishes, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, Turkey Tostadas are sure to impress.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Turkey Tostadas recipe quickly became a staple in my home. The first bite is always a burst of flavor, with the crunch of the tortilla complementing the savory turkey and the freshness of the toppings. What truly sets this dish apart is its versatility. You can easily customize the toppings to cater to your tastes or dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fun meal to assemble, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends!
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil – For sautéing the turkey and vegetables, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Gives a sweet and savory base flavor.
- 3 medium garlic cloves, chopped – Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
- 20 ounces (1 ¼ pounds) lean ground turkey – A healthier alternative to beef, packed with protein.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – Provides warmth and a hint of spice.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin – Adds an earthy, nutty flavor that enhances the turkey.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander – Offers a citrusy touch that brightens the dish.
- One 6-ounce can tomato paste – Adds richness and depth, tying all the flavors together.
- 1 cup water – Helps to create a saucy consistency for the turkey mixture.
- Salt, to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 6 medium flour tortillas – The base for your tostadas; feel free to use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- One and a half 15-ounce cans refried beans, warmed up – Creamy and flavorful, they act as a delicious layer on the tostadas.
- 1 medium head iceberg lettuce, chopped – Adds a refreshing crunch.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or cheddar/jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor.
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved – A burst of sweetness and color.
- 1 cup sliced black olives – Brings a briny flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, for serving (as desired) – Essential toppings that elevate the tostadas.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Skillet – For sautéing the turkey and veggies.
- Spatula – To stir and break up the turkey as it cooks.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Canning jar or container – To store any leftovers.
- Baking sheet – If you prefer to bake your tortillas for added crispiness.
- Serving platter – To assemble and present your tostadas beautifully.
Cooking Turkey Tostadas: The Process
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey
Add the lean ground turkey to the skillet. Use your spatula to break it up as it cooks. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Water
Stir in the tomato paste and water, mixing well to combine. Season with salt to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas
While the turkey mixture is simmering, you can either heat the tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes until crisp.
Step 5: Assemble the Tostadas
To assemble, spread a generous layer of warmed refried beans on each tortilla. Top with the turkey mixture, and then layer on the chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, halved tomatoes, and sliced olives.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Serve your Turkey Tostadas with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa on the side for everyone to add their desired toppings. Enjoy the crunch and burst of flavors in every bite!
Year-Round Variations
- Seasonal Veggies – Swap out the lettuce for spinach or arugula in the spring, or use roasted peppers in the fall.
- Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy heat.
- Cheese Alternatives – Try using feta or a dairy-free cheese option for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Swaps – Substitute the turkey with shredded chicken, beef, or even plant-based ground meat.
Slip-Ups to Skip
- Overcooking the turkey can lead to dry meat; be sure to cook it just until it’s no longer pink.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning; salt enhances the overall flavor, so taste as you go!
- Using cold tortillas instead of warming them can lead to a less enjoyable texture; crisp them up for the best experience.
- Forget to let your guests customize their toppings? Lay out a topping bar to make it interactive and fun!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
Turkey Tostadas are best enjoyed fresh, but you can easily store leftovers. Here’s how:
- Store any leftover turkey mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the tortillas and toppings separate until ready to eat to maintain their texture.
- Reheat the turkey mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling your tostadas.
- For an even quicker meal, consider prepping the turkey mixture ahead of time and freezing it for future meals.
Quick Q&A
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a fantastic gluten-free option and will add a delightful crunch to your Turkey Tostadas.
How can I make these Turkey Tostadas spicier?
To amp up the heat, add diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture or serve with a spicy salsa. You can also sprinkle chili flakes on top before serving.
What can I substitute for refried beans?
If you’re not a fan of refried beans, try black bean puree or hummus for a different flavor and texture. Both options work well as a base for the toppings.
Can I meal prep these Tostadas?
Yes! Prepare the turkey mixture and toppings ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. Assemble the tostadas just before eating for maximum freshness.
Explore More
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – For delightful baking recipes and tips.
- Pinch of Yum – Discover a variety of delicious, easy-to-make meals.
- Minimalist Baker – Perfect for simple recipes that require 10 ingredients or less.
Make It Tonight
With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, Turkey Tostadas are a weeknight winner that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or an impressive dish to serve guests, these tostadas deliver on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of crispy, tasty goodness!
Turkey Tostadas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the lean ground turkey to the skillet. Use your spatula to break it up as it cooks. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and water, mixing well to combine. Season with salt to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- While the turkey mixture is simmering, you can either heat the tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes until crisp.
- To assemble, spread a generous layer of warmed refried beans on each tortilla. Top with the turkey mixture, and then layer on the chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, halved tomatoes, and sliced olives.
- Serve your Turkey Tostadas with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa on the side for everyone to add their desired toppings. Enjoy the crunch and burst of flavors in every bite!
Notes
- Store leftover turkey mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the tortillas and toppings separate until ready to eat to maintain their texture.
- Reheat the turkey mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling your tostadas.
