Crispy Ground Beef Tostadas

Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 350°F (175°C). You can test if it's hot enough by dropping a small piece of tortilla in; it should sizzle immediately.

Carefully place one corn tortilla into the hot oil. Fry for about 30-60 seconds per side, until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip and remove. Place fried tortillas on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Repeat with remaining tortillas, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Let them cool slightly on the wire rack.

In the same skillet (or a clean one), add the ground beef. Cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains. Drain off most of the rendered fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor.

Add the chopped onion, minced jalapeno, and diced yellow bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.

Stir in the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Spread a layer of refried beans onto each crispy tostada shell. You can warm the beans slightly if desired.

Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned ground beef mixture over the refried beans.

Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, a dollop of guacamole, and a spoonful of sour cream. Garnish with sliced red onions and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Serve the assembled tostadas immediately with a side of Mexican rice. Enjoy your delicious homemade crispy ground beef tostadas!