Taco Bell Street Chalupa (Printable Version)
Crispy flatbread filled with seasoned beef, fresh toppings, and creamy sauces for classic Tex-Mex flavor.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chalupa Shells
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening or unsalted butter
05 - 3/4 cup whole milk, plus extra as needed
06 - Vegetable oil, for frying
→ Seasoned Beef
07 - 1/2 pound ground beef
08 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
15 - 1/4 cup water
→ Toppings
16 - 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
17 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
18 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
19 - 1/2 cup sour cream
20 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, optional
# Step-by-Step:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in vegetable shortening or unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add whole milk, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Knead gently for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes.
02 - Divide dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each ball into a 6-inch round about 1/4 inch thick. Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry each round for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden and puffed. Remove and drain on paper towels.
03 - Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown ground beef, stirring until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and water. Mix thoroughly and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the liquid has reduced and the beef is flavorful.
04 - Place fried chalupa shells on serving plates. Spoon seasoned beef evenly over each shell, then top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Uses easy pantry staples and everyday ingredients
- Fluffy crisp shells just like street vendors serve
- Customizable toppings make it fun for all ages
- Satisfying and filling for lunch or dinner
02 -
- Rich source of protein thanks to beef and cheese
- Crunchy shells stay crisp even under creamy toppings
- Easy to make vegetarian by swapping beef for black beans
03 -
- Test oil temperature with a small bit of dough before frying the right heat gives you perfect puff and golden crust.
- Do not rush the dough resting step it really makes the difference for pillowy shells.
- Always drain fried shells on paper towels so they stay crisp not greasy.
- For bolder flavor let the beef filling simmer an extra minute after adding spices.