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Copycat Chalupa Taco Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 111 reviews

This Copycat Chalupa Taco recipe crafts crispy, golden chalupa shells from scratch, filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with classic taco fixings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Enjoy the perfect blend of crunchy shell and flavorful fillings in this homemade Mexican-inspired treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Chalupa Shell

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon white sugar
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus additional oil for frying)

Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet your favorite taco seasoning
  • Sour cream (to taste)
  • Shredded lettuce (to taste)
  • Diced tomato (to taste)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder. Create a well in the center and pour in the milk and vegetable oil. Mix by hand until a dough forms.
  2. Knead and Rest: Knead the dough for 2 to 4 minutes until smooth. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
  3. Heat Oil for Frying: Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C) for frying the shells.
  4. Shape the Shells: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a 6-inch disk. Use a fork to poke holes in the dough disks to prevent excessive puffing.
  5. Fry the Shells: Fry each disk for about 15 seconds until slightly puffed. Using tongs, reshape the dough into a taco shell form and fry for an additional 30 seconds. Continue frying for 1 to 2 minutes more until the chalupa shells turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack and season with salt. Repeat for all dough pieces.
  6. Cook the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add the taco seasoning according to the package instructions and stir well.
  7. Assemble the Chalupa Tacos: Fill each fried chalupa shell with cooked seasoned ground beef. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream as desired.
  8. Serve: Serve your homemade copycat chalupa tacos immediately for the best crispiness and flavor.

Notes

  • You can adjust the toppings based on your preferences—jalapeños, guacamole, or salsa are great additions.
  • Maintain oil temperature during frying for evenly cooked, crispy shells.
  • Use vegetable oil with a high smoke point to avoid burning.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, chalupa shells can be baked, but frying gives the authentic crispy texture.
  • Store leftover shells in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Keywords: Copycat Chalupa, Chalupa Taco, Fried Chalupa, Mexican Taco Recipe, Homemade Chalupa Shells, Ground Beef Tacos

Find it online: https://delishfamilyrecipe.com/copycat-chalupa-taco-recipe/