When it comes to comfort food that’s easy to make and deliciously satisfying, it’s hard to beat a chalupa. These crispy, folded tortillas filled with savory ingredients are a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping party snack, chalupas have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering chalupa recipes that cater to all sorts of tastes and dietary preferences. From classic beef to vegetarian black bean, pork carnitas to vegan lentil, there’s something for everyone in our list. So grab your favorite toppings and get ready to dive into the world of chalupas!
Classic Beef Chalupa
A flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish that combines the rich taste of beef with the crunch of a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the chalupas by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, topping with shredded cheese, and serving with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Tinga Chalupa
Tinga, a traditional Mexican dish, gets a flavorful twist with the addition of crispy chalupas and savory chicken. This recipe combines the two to create a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, blend chipotle peppers, olive oil, garlic, and cumin until smooth.
3. Grill chicken breasts until cooked through; let cool.
4. Shred cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Heat the chipotle mixture in a pan over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and stir to combine.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble chalupas by placing about 1/4 cup of the chicken tinga onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes (including preparation)
Vegetarian Black Bean Chalupa
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine, featuring black beans, roasted vegetables, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, avocado, and cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble chalupas by spooning bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
7. Serve with salsa, avocado, and cilantro (if desired).
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Carnitas Chalupa
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering Pork Carnitas Chalupas recipe, featuring tender slow-cooked pork, crispy tortillas, and a blend of creamy and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shoulder with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat lard or oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear pork until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer pot to preheated oven and braise pork for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble chalupas by spooning pork onto tortillas, followed by your desired toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Shrimp and Avocado Chalupa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic chalupa! This recipe combines succulent shrimp, creamy avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and salt. Add the shrimp and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
3. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Warm tortilla chips according to package instructions or bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
5. Assemble by placing cooked shrimp on top of tortilla chips, followed by diced avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chorizo Chalupa
Elevate your snack game with this bold and spicy recipe that combines the flavors of chorizo, black beans, and crispy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cooked chorizo, crumbled
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6-8 tortilla chips
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine black beans, chorizo, onion, jalapeño, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the bean-chorizo mixture over the tortilla chips.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using).
6. Remove from oven, season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your Spicy Chorizo Chalupa!
Grilled Fish Chalupa
A twist on traditional fish tacos, this grilled fish chalupa recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the simplicity of a fish sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or mild-flavored, such as tilapia or mahi-mahi)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish fillets.
3. Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble chalupas by placing grilled fish on a warmed tortilla, topping with shredded cheese, and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Chalupa
Get ready for a flavor-packed twist on traditional tacos with this BBQ Pulled Pork Chalupa recipe! Slow-cooked pork shoulder is shredded and tossed in tangy BBQ sauce, then wrapped in crispy tortillas with crunchy slaw, creamy avocado, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup coleslaw mix (cabbage, carrots, and onions)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Cook pork for 8 hours or overnight.
4. Shred pork with two forks and mix with BBQ sauce.
5. Fry tortillas in hot oil until crispy, about 30 seconds each.
6. Assemble chalupas by spooning pork onto a tortilla, followed by coleslaw, avocado, and cheese.
7. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + assembly time
Vegan Lentil Chalupa
A flavorful twist on traditional chalupas, this vegan lentil version is packed with plant-based goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Vegan cheddar shreds (optional)
– Chopped cilantro, scallions, or avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cooked lentils, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble chalupas by spooning lentil mixture onto tortilla halves, followed by optional vegan cheese shreds.
6. Place assembled chalupas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Vegan Lentil Chalupa!
Cheesy Chicken Chalupa
Transform ordinary tortillas into a flavorful fiesta with this easy and satisfying Cheesy Chicken Chalupa recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the chalupas by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of refried beans and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Place the chalupas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Beef and Bean Chalupa
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this flavorful Beef and Bean Chalupa recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in beans; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble chalupas by spooning beef mixture onto tortillas, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Place chalupas on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Turkey Taco Chalupa
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this twist on traditional tacos. This Turkey Taco Chalupa combines savory turkey, crunchy taco shells, and creamy toppings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 taco shells
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble chalupas by spooning turkey mixture onto a warmed shell, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
6. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chalupa
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chalupa Recipe
Transform your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional Mexican cuisine! This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chalupa combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy goodness of black beans, all wrapped in a crispy corn tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and cilantro (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add black beans to the skillet; stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble chalupas by spooning the sweet potato and black bean mixture onto a warmed tortilla, topping with shredded cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Buffalo Chicken Chalupa
Get ready to take your taste buds on a spicy ride with this mouth-watering Buffalo Chicken Chalupa!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheddar cheese
– Diced tomatoes
– Sliced red onions
– Cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the Frank’s RedHot sauce and ranch dressing over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook until fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the chalupas by placing a cooked chicken breast on each tortilla, topping with cheese, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pineapple Pork Chalupa
Pineapple Pork Chalupa Recipe: A Twist on a Classic!
Corn and Zucchini Chalupa
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this vibrant and delicious Corn and Zucchini Chalupa! Crispy tortillas filled with sautéed zucchini, sweet corn, and creamy cheese make for a perfect snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large corn tortillas
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, or avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add corn kernels to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble chalupas by spooning the zucchini-corn mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and a sprinkle of cilantro.
6. Place chalupas on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tofu Chalupa
Add a twist to traditional tacos with this flavorful and spicy tofu chalupa recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Avocado or guacamole (optional)
– Salsa (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add crumbled tofu, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble chalupas by spooning the tofu mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado or guacamole (if using).
6. Top with salsa and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Loaded Nacho Chalupa
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this loaded nacho chalupa recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 chalupa shell (tortilla)
– 1 cup shredded cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack)
– 1/2 cup cooked ground beef
– 1/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the black beans, red bell pepper, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
4. Place the chalupa shell on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon the meat mixture onto the shell, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Add your desired toppings and serve!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Looking for a delicious and easy meal? Look no further! This article features 18 mouth-watering chalupa recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic beef to vegan lentil, there’s something for everyone. Try our Classic Beef Chalupa with melted cheese and savory ground beef, or go veggie-friendly with our Vegetarian Black Bean Chalupa. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or just want a comforting meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
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