Introduction
The Taco Bell Chalupa Supreme is a fan favorite, combining a crispy, soft shell with seasoned beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. It’s a perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and savory. With this copycat recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy that same mouthwatering flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen.
The History of the Chalupa Supreme
The Chalupa first appeared on Taco Bell’s menu in 1999, but the “Supreme” version came shortly after, gaining popularity for its richer, more satisfying fillings. Over time, Taco Bell has introduced several variations of the Chalupa, but the Supreme version, with the addition of sour cream, has remained a fan favorite.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate the Taco Bell Chalupa Supreme at home:
- For the Chalupa Shell:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup warm water
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or chicken, if preferred)
- 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/4 cup water (for taco seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Optional: Hot sauce, jalapenos, or other toppings
Step-by-Step Recipe:
Making the Chalupa Shell:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the vegetable oil and warm water. Stir to combine into a dough.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into 6 equal balls. Roll each ball out into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Fry the Shells: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry each dough circle for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Use tongs to press down gently to form the classic Chalupa shell shape.
- Drain and Set Aside: Place the fried shells on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Preparing the Filling:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the beef is well-coated and flavorful.
Assembling the Chalupa Supreme:
- Fill the Shell: Start by spooning the seasoned beef into each Chalupa shell.
- Add Lettuce and Tomatoes: Layer with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes.
- Top with Cheese and Sour Cream: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and add a dollop of sour cream on top.
Tips for the Perfect Chalupa Supreme:
- Shell Texture: Be sure to fry the dough until crispy, but don’t over-fry it. The perfect shell should be golden brown with a crunchy exterior and slightly chewy interior.
- Customize the Filling: Use ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein to suit your preferences.
- Homemade Taco Seasoning: If you want more control over the flavor, make your own seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.
- Warm Shells: If you want the shells extra warm, you can keep them in the oven at a low temperature wrapped in a kitchen towel.
Variations and Customizations:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for beans, tofu, or a plant-based protein.
- Cheese Options: Try using a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Add Avocado: For an extra creamy element, add slices of avocado or guacamole.
- Spicy Chalupa: Add sliced jalapenos, hot sauce, or chili flakes to the fillings for an added kick.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
While this homemade version gives you more control over ingredients, keep in mind that it’s still a rich and indulgent meal. Here’s a rough estimate for a typical Chalupa Supreme (though this can vary depending on the ingredients you use):
- Calories: Around 400-500 calories per Chalupa
- Fat: 20-25 grams (depending on the meat and toppings)
- Carbs: 40-50 grams
- Protein: 15-20 grams
To make it healthier:
- Use lean meat (like ground turkey or chicken).
- Opt for a lower-fat cheese or skip the cheese entirely.
- Swap out the fried shell for a baked shell or use a lettuce wrap instead.
FAQ:
1. Can I make the Chalupa shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can fry the shells ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven before serving for a crispy texture.
2. Can I use store-bought taco seasoning instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought seasoning works just as well and saves time.
3. How can I make the Chalupa shell gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use gluten-free taco seasoning as well.
4. Can I bake the Chalupa shell instead of frying it?
Yes! To make a healthier version, bake the dough circles at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.
5. Can I use ground beef alternatives for a plant-based Chalupa?
Yes! There are many great plant-based ground meat alternatives available in stores, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Meat.
Copycat Taco Bell Chalupa Supreme
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp. baking powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp. oil
- 1 cup milk
- Oil for frying
- For Garnish
- chopped Lettuce
- chopped cilantro
- sour cream
- refried beans
- guacamole
- chopped black olives
- cheese tex mix blend
- Pico de Gallo
Instructions
- Making Chalupa Dough
- First mix all the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder and salt) together.
- Then Add in oil and mix it in the dough.
- Knead the dough using milk. Add 3/4 cup milk at one go. Add the remaining 1/4 cup as required.
- If you need a little more liquid to knead the dough, you can use water.
- Keep kneading till it all comes together and dough feels soft
- Making chalupa Shells or disc
- Cut it into 8 equal parts.
- Then roll each part between both palms to make a ball. Roll out each ball using a rolling pin into a 7-8 inch (diameter) disc.
- Punch some holes with fork. This will ensure that the chalupa does not puff a lot while frying.
- Oil should not be more than 2 inches deep. Heat oil over medium flame.
- When the oil is ready, slowly slide the rolled-out disc in the oil.
- The disc will rise up on the oil and will puff up slightly.
- With a pair of tongs, pick up the disc and flip it to the other side.
- Immediately, pinch up a side of the disc with tongs and gently fold it in half. Cook this half side for 30 seconds .
- Flip and cook the other half for another 1 minute till both sides are golden and crunchy.
- Serving
- To serve chalupas place a piece of fried bread on a plate and top with
- the refried beans, guacamole, pica de Gallo , chopped lettuce , cheese , olives and sour cream or any other desired toppings.
- Eat and enjoy!