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Homemade Chalupa

Delightful Homemade Chalupa That's Better Than Taco Bell

This Homemade Chalupa is a delicious fast-food favorite recreated at home, allowing for customization to satisfy all cravings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 15 chalupas
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Chalupa Shells
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour can substitute with 50% whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder do not omit
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust according to preference
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter use oil for vegan option
  • 3/4 cup milk preferably full fat; skim is a viable substitute
  • 2 cups oil for frying canola or vegetable oil works great
For the Toppings
  • 1 can black beans can swap for refried beans
  • 1 cup lettuce any type of salad greens
  • 1 cup tomatoes any fresh tomato variety
  • 1 cup sour cream can use vegan sour cream for plant-based option
  • 1 cup queso sauce substitute with any cheese sauce or leave out for a lighter dish
  • 1 cup cheese (e.g., pepper jack) your favorite cheese or omit for dairy-free option

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Rolling Pin
  • skillet
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add 2 tablespoons of melted butter and pour in 3/4 cup of milk. Mix until a soft dough forms, ensuring there are no dry spots. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface for about 2 minutes until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
  2. After resting, divide the dough into 15 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a 5-inch circle using a rolling pin. Prick each circle with a fork multiple times. Heat a deep skillet with about 2 inches of oil over medium heat.
  3. Carefully place one dough circle in the hot oil. Fry for approximately 1 minute or until it begins to float and puff up. Using tongs, gently fold the chalupa in half while frying, maintaining the shell shape. Fry for an additional minute until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Repeat for the remaining dough circles, ensuring the oil temperature is maintained.
  5. Prepare your toppings while the chalupa shells cool slightly. Drain black beans and warm them over medium heat. Chop lettuce and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Set out bowls of sour cream, queso sauce, and shredded cheese.
  6. Fill each chalupa shell with a layer of warm black beans, followed by lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and queso sauce. Optionally sprinkle cheese on top. Serve your homemade chalupas immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1chalupaCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Customize your chalupa with various toppings and enjoy! Leftover shells can be stored in an airtight container or frozen.

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