Ingredients
Scale
For the Chalupa Shells:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or avocado oil)
- ⅔ cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
- Additional oil for frying
For the Seasoned Ground Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup water
Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Chopped onions (optional)
- Taco sauce or hot sauce
Instructions
1. Make the chalupa dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the yogurt and oil, and mix gently.
- Gradually pour in the milk, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
2. Prepare the seasoned meat
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in ¼ cup water and simmer for 5 minutes until well-seasoned and slightly saucy.
3. Shape and fry the chalupa shells
- Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-inch circle.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 1 inch deep).
- Fry each dough circle for 30–45 seconds per side until golden and puffed.
- Carefully fold each one in half using tongs while still pliable to create the chalupa shell shape.
- Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble the chalupas
- Spoon seasoned beef into each chalupa shell.
- Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
- Drizzle with taco sauce or hot sauce if desired.
5. Serve immediately
- Enjoy warm, fresh chalupas with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or corn salad.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chalupa
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g