Homemade Taco Bell Chalupa Supreme
Recreate the Taco Bell Chalupa Supreme at home with this crispy, golden shell, flavorful seasoned beef, and fresh toppings. This easy copycat recipe delivers the perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and savory flavors, making it a delicious Mexican-inspired fast-food favorite.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For preparing the dough
- 1 Rolling Pin To flatten the chalupa dough
- 1 Deep Frying Pan or Skillet For frying the chalupa shells
- 1 Tongs To shape the chalupa shells while frying
- 1 Large Skillet For cooking the ground beef
- 1 Baking Sheet (Optional) If baking instead of frying
- 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons For accurate portioning
Ingredients
For the Chalupa Shell:
- 2 cups All-purpose flour Plus extra for dusting
- 1 tsp Baking powder Adds lightness to the dough
- ½ tsp Salt Enhances flavor
- 3 tbsp Butter Melted
- ¾ cup Milk Warm for soft dough
- ½ cup Vegetable oil For frying
For the Seasoned Beef Filling:
- 1 lb Ground Beef Lean 85/15 or 90/10
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil For sautéing
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adds depth of flavor
- 1 tsp Onion Powder Enhances taste
- 1 tsp Cumin For authentic Mexican flavor
- ½ tsp Chili Powder Adjust for spice level
- ½ tsp Smoked Paprika Adds a smoky touch
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground
- ½ cup Water Helps absorb seasoning
For the Chalupa Supreme Toppings:
- ½ cup Sour Cream Classic creamy topping
- 1 cup Shredded Lettuce Crisp and fresh
- ½ cup Diced Tomatoes Adds juiciness
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Or Monterey Jack
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chalupa Dough
- In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in melted butter and warm milk, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
- Flatten each ball into a 4-5 inch round disc using a rolling pin.
Step 2: Fry the Chalupa Shells
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place a rolled-out dough piece into the oil.
- Fry for 30–40 seconds per side, using tongs to press the center slightly for the chalupa shape.
- Once golden brown and puffed up, remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Cook the Seasoned Beef
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Cook until browned, then drain excess grease.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in water and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Assemble the Chalupa Supreme
- Spread sour cream inside each chalupa shell.
- Add seasoned beef, followed by lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
- Serve immediately while crispy and warm.
Notes
✔ Healthier Option: Bake the shells at 400°F for 10–12 minutes instead of frying.
✔ Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the toppings.
✔ Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with refried beans or grilled vegetables.
✔ Make Ahead: Store shells in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
🔥 Freezing: Freeze chalupa shells separately, wrapped in plastic, for up to 2 months.
🔥 Reheating:
✔ Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the toppings.
✔ Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with refried beans or grilled vegetables.
✔ Make Ahead: Store shells in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Storage & Reheating:
🔥 Refrigeration: Store ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.🔥 Freezing: Freeze chalupa shells separately, wrapped in plastic, for up to 2 months.
🔥 Reheating:
- Oven: 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
- Air Fryer: 375°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Stovetop: Lightly pan-fry for 1–2 minutes per side.