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Black Bean Tostadas with Melted Pepper Jack and Avocado Recipe

4.9 from 64 reviews

A quick and flavorful recipe for Black Bean Tostadas featuring seasoned black beans, melted pepper Jack cheese on crispy tostadas, topped with fresh avocado slices and a drizzle of hot sauce. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal or snack with a Mexican-inspired flair.

Ingredients

Scale

Bean Mixture

  • 2 (15-oz.) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp. chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cumin

Tostadas

  • 8 tostadas
  • 2 cups shredded pepper Jack cheese

Toppings

  • Thinly sliced avocados
  • Hot sauce, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bean mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the rinsed and drained black beans with kosher salt, chili powder, freshly ground black pepper, and ground cumin. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the beans are warmed through. Use a wooden spoon to smash most of the beans, leaving some whole for texture. Add a bit of water if needed to achieve a smoother consistency. Adjust salt to taste.
  2. Prepare the tostadas: Arrange the tostadas on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Evenly sprinkle the shredded pepper Jack cheese over each tostada.
  3. Melt the cheese: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) on the center rack. Bake the tostadas for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Assemble and serve: Remove the tostadas from the oven. Top each with a generous spoonful of the seasoned black bean mixture. Add thin slices of avocado on top and drizzle with your favorite hot sauce. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy.

Notes

  • For smoother beans, add water a tablespoon at a time while mashing.
  • Adjust chili powder and hot sauce to control the spice level.
  • Can substitute pepper Jack cheese with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
  • To make this vegan, use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit the cheese.
  • Use fresh avocado to add a creamy texture and balance the spices.
  • Leftover bean mixture can be refrigerated and used in other dishes like burritos or salads.

Keywords: black bean tostadas, vegetarian tostadas, Mexican recipe, quick vegetarian dinner, baked tostadas, black beans, easy Mexican meal