Taco Bell Chalupa (Copycat) Recipe
Introduction
If you love the crispy, flavorful chalupas from Taco Bell, you can easily make a copycat version at home. This recipe lets you enjoy crispy fried shells filled with seasoned ground beef, fresh lettuce, and melted cheese—perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the flour and yeast. Gradually add warm milk and knead until you form a smooth dough. Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour.
- Step 2: Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into an oval shape. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the dough pieces until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Step 3: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add taco seasoning and a splash of water, simmer until the beef is well coated and cooked through.
- Step 4: Fill each fried shell with seasoned beef, then top with shredded lettuce and cheese. Serve immediately while the shells are still crispy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add diced tomatoes or sour cream as toppings.
- Use cornmeal instead of flour for a slightly different texture in the shells.
- If you prefer baked shells, brush the dough with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
Storage
Store leftover fried shells and cooked beef separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat beef in a skillet over low heat and warm the shells briefly in the oven to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made taco seasoning?
Yes, using a store-bought taco seasoning packet works well and simplifies the process. You can also make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.
How do I keep the chalupa shells crispy?
Fry the shells just before assembling and serve immediately. If storing, keep them in an airtight container and warm them in a hot oven briefly before serving to restore crispiness.
PrintTaco Bell Chalupa (Copycat) Recipe
This Taco Bell Chalupa copycat recipe recreates the iconic chalupa with crispy, fried flour tortillas filled with flavorful seasoned ground beef, fresh lettuce, and melty cheese. Perfect for a fun homemade twist on a fast-food favorite, this recipe combines a soft yet crunchy shell with classic taco toppings for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 chalupas 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
For the Chalupa Shells Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
For the Toppings
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In a larger bowl, combine the flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Shape and Fry Shells: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal balls. Roll each ball into an oval or round shape about 6 inches in diameter. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F. Fry each dough piece for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until puffy, golden, and crispy. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.
- Cook the Seasoned Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup water, stirring well. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and beef is fully flavored.
- Assemble the Chalupas: Take a fried chalupa shell and fill it generously with the seasoned beef. Top with shredded lettuce and cheddar cheese. Serve immediately while shells are crisp and cheese slightly melts.
Notes
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying the shells to achieve the signature puffy texture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner filling.
- Customize toppings with diced tomatoes, sour cream, or salsa for extra flavor.
- Chalupa shells can be made ahead and reheated by briefly frying again or warming in the oven.
Keywords: Taco Bell Chalupa, Copycat Chalupa Recipe, Fried Chalupa Shells, Seasoned Ground Beef Chalupa, Homemade Chalupa
