Taco Bell Chalupa Copycat Recipe
Introduction
If you love the crispy, flavorful chalupas from Taco Bell, this copycat recipe lets you enjoy them at home with simple ingredients. It’s a quick and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any taco night.
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup taco sauce or your favorite salsa
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 2: Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable, then shape each one into a boat shape by folding and pinching the edges gently.
- Step 3: Fill each tortilla with cooked beef, shredded lettuce, cheese, and a drizzle of taco sauce.
- Step 4: Place the filled chalupas on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes, until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese melts.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and serve warm with extra sauce or toppings if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, try frying the shaped tortillas in a little oil before adding the filling.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Add diced tomatoes, onions, or jalapeños for more fresh flavor and heat.
Storage
Store any leftover chalupas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Flour tortillas work best for shaping and crisping in this recipe, but you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just be gentle when shaping, as they are more fragile.
What kind of sauce is best for this chalupa?
A classic taco sauce or your favorite salsa adds great flavor. You can also try ranch dressing or a spicy chipotle mayo for a twist.
PrintTaco Bell Chalupa Copycat Recipe
This Taco Bell Chalupa Copycat recipe recreates the iconic fast-food chalupa with a crispy tortilla shell filled with seasoned ground beef, fresh lettuce, shredded cheese, and a tangy sauce. Perfect for a flavorful, easy-to-make Mexican-inspired meal at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Tortilla and Shell
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade equivalent)
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Taco Bell-style sauce or salsa
Instructions
- Prepare the Chalupa Shells: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Gently fold each flour tortilla into a chalupa shape by pinching opposite edges, then fry one at a time until golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and water, and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Chalupas: Place each crispy shell on a plate. Spoon the seasoned beef into each shell, then top with shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, and a generous drizzle of Taco Bell-style sauce or salsa.
- Bake Briefly: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled chalupas on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes to slightly melt the cheese and warm the assembly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Notes
- You can substitute shredded mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend for cheddar if preferred.
- If you prefer a lighter option, bake the tortillas instead of frying for a less oily shell, but frying gives the authentic crispy texture.
- Adjust taco seasoning amount to your taste for spiciness.
- The sauce can be replaced with your favorite salsa or hot sauce.
- Leftover chalupa shells can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in an oven to retain crispiness.
Keywords: Taco Bell Chalupa copycat, chalupa recipe, Mexican fast food, fried tortilla, ground beef chalupa
