My philosophy is simple: I believe what we consume is everything—from the foods we put in our body, to the ideas we feed for our minds, to the connections we have with others. Everything gives you energy, and what you take in determines how your life will be. My goal is to champion a healthy lifestyle that is simple, accessible, and gives your body what it needs to fuel your best life possible.
My philosophy is simple: I believe what we consume is everything—from the foods we put in our body, to the ideas we feed for our minds, to the connections we have with others. Everything gives you energy, and what you take in determines how your life will be. My goal is to champion a healthy lifestyle that is simple, accessible, and gives your body what it needs to fuel your best life possible.
These 5‑Layer Bean & Cheese Tostadas with a side of fluffy Mexican rice are a favorite for good reason—crispy corn shells layered with hearty beans, melty cheese, vibrant veggies, creamy avocado, and zesty salsa, all balanced with a side of savory rice. They’re easy, customizable, and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the tostadas:
8 corn tostada shells
1 (15 oz) can refried beans
1 can black beans, drained & rinsed
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
1 cup diced tomatoes
¼ cup diced avocado
¼ cup cilantro, chopped
Optional: pickled jalapeños, lime wedges
For the Mexican rice:
1 package microwave Mexican or Spanish rice (or 1 cup cooked rice seasoned taco‑style)
Instructions
Warm the beans & rice: Heat the refried beans on the stovetop. Microwave or cook the Mexican rice as directed.
Layer the tostadas:
Spread ~2 Tbsp refried beans over each tostada shell.
Top with ~2 Tbsp black beans.
Sprinkle with shredded cheese, then bake or broil at 400°F for 5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add fresh toppings: Remove from oven and layer with lettuce/cabbage, tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, and pickled jalapeños (if using). Squeeze with lime and serve alongside the Mexican rice.
Why You’ll Love It
Fun & Interactive – Build-your-own tostadas let everyone customize their flavor profile.
Balanced & Satisfying – Combines protein, fiber, fresh produce, healthy fats, and carbs in one plate.
Quick & Weeknight‑Friendly – Ready in under 30 minutes, with no chopping required if using pre-shredded veggies.
Party‑Perfect – Ideal for Taco Tuesday, game nights, or casual get-togethers.
Customization Ideas
Add protein: Top with shredded rotisserie chicken, seasoned ground beef, or tofu crumbles.
Keep it plant-based: Use vegan cheese and maximize black beans and veggies.
Gluten-free: Make sure your rice is gluten-free (most are) and opt for corn tostada shells.
Kid-friendly: Let kids skip fresh toppings or top half the tostadas with cheese only.
Nutritional Highlights
Beans = plant-based protein + fiber
Avocado & cheese = healthy fats + calcium
Fresh veggies & cilantro = vitamins A & C, plus a pop of color and freshness
Corn tortillas = gluten-free base with whole-grain goodness (check packaging)
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal, a fun party spread, or a hands-on family dinner, these 5‑Layer Bean & Cheese Tostadas with Mexican rice deliver big on flavor, nutrition, and fun. Layer them your way, make memories around the table, and enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!
1package microwave Mexican ricecooked to package directions
Instructions
In a small pan, heat up refried beans over medium heat until warmed through. Lay out 8 tostada shells and divide refried beans among them. Spread refried beans to cover each tostada shell. Top each with 2 tbsp shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, salsa and guacamole. Serve with Spanish rice.
Notes
Plant-based: Use vegan refried beans. Use vegan cheese shreds.Meat-eater in the group: Add cooked chorizo or shredded chicken in after the cheese.Kid-friendly: Let them make their own with their favorite toppings and veggies
My philosophy is simple: I believe what we consume is everything—from the foods we put in our body, to the ideas we feed for our minds, to the connections we have with others. Everything gives you energy, and what you take in determines how your life will be. My goal is to champion a healthy lifestyle that is simple, accessible, and gives your body what it needs to fuel your best life possible.