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Taco Bell Chalupa

Taco Bell Chalupa Recipe: Quick, Crispy, and Totally Homemade

Recreate the delicious Taco Bell Chalupa at home with this easy recipe featuring a crispy shell and customizable toppings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 chalupas
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Chalupa Shell
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Extra flour may be needed for rolling.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Use baking soda, not powder.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Feel free to adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar For leavening.
  • 3/4 cup whole milk Hydrates the dough.
  • Vegetable oil for frying Use until golden brown.
Ground Beef Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15) Can substitute with turkey or beans.
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder Primary flavoring for the meat.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Can be omitted.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Authentic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon coriander Adjust spice level as needed.
  • 1 pinch cayenne To taste.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds color and mild flavor.
Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce Fresh and crunchy.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream For creamy richness.
  • 1 cup Roma tomatoes Diced for garnish.
  • 1 cup grated Colby Jack cheese Can mix with cheddar.
  • to taste hot sauce Adjust for heat preference.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • cast-iron skillet
  • Frying pan
  • Floured surface
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Chalupa Preparation
  1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt in a mixing bowl. Stir in white vinegar and whole milk until a shaggy ball forms. Knead briefly, then divide into 8 pieces and roll each into a 6-inch circle.
  2. Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil to 325ºF. Fry each dough circle for about 30 seconds on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned, then stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Add water, simmer until thickened, then remove from heat.
  4. Assemble by filling fried shell with ground beef, and top with lettuce, sour cream, tomatoes, and cheese. Add hot sauce and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1chalupaCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For the best results, do not overcrowd the pan while frying. Customize fillings as desired for a personalized experience.

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