The humble chalupa – a delicious, crispy shell filled with savory ingredients and topped with an array of flavorful toppings. It’s a staple in many Latin American cuisines, but we’re here to take it to the next level by sharing 18 mouthwatering chalupa recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a show-stopping appetizer, or a fun twist on breakfast, we’ve got you covered.
From classic beef and bean combinations to innovative vegetarian and vegan options, our chalupa recipes are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the flavorful world of chalupas!
Slow Cooker Beef Chalupas
Elevate your taco game with this easy and flavorful recipe for Slow Cooker Beef Chalupas. Perfect for a busy day, this dish simmers all morning in your slow cooker, filling the air with savory aromas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Place the beef chuck roast in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and taco seasoning. Pour over the beef.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. About an hour before serving, warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
5. Assemble the chalupas by shredding the beef with two forks, then spooning it onto a warmed tortilla along with shredded cheese and desired toppings.
Cook Time: 4-8 hours
Chicken Tinga Chalupas
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken tinga with the crispy, cheesy goodness of chalupas. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat lard or oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. 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 placing cooked chicken onto tortillas, followed by diced tomatoes with green chilies and shredded cheese.
6. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Vegetarian Black Bean Chalupas
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this flavorful and nutritious vegetarian take on traditional Mexican chalupas!
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add black beans, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble chalupas by spooning the black bean mixture onto each tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Carnitas Chalupas
Transform traditional Mexican cuisine into a mouth-watering snack with these crispy Pork Carnitas Chalupas, featuring tender braised pork, crunchy tortillas, and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sliced radishes
– Chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the pork shoulder in lard or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and oregano; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven; braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt and pepper.
6. Heat a few inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry tortillas in batches, until crispy and golden.
8. Assemble chalupas by spooning pork onto fried tortillas, topping with radishes, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (braising) + 5-7 minutes (frying tortillas)
Spicy Shrimp Chalupas
Add a kick to your Mexican meal with these spicy shrimp chalupas, packed with succulent shrimp, crunchy slaw, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 avocado, sliced
– Sour cream, for serving (optional)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the chalupas by placing cooked shrimp on each tortilla, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and sliced avocado.
7. Serve with sour cream and cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Breakfast Egg and Chorizo Chalupas
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast twist on traditional Mexican dishes. These chalupas combine scrambled eggs, spicy chorizo sausage, and creamy avocado for a delicious morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen eggs
– 1/2 pound chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the chorizo sausage in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the chalupas by placing a spoonful of scrambled eggs on each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of cooked chorizo and a sprinkle of avocado.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Chalupas
Get ready to elevate your chalupa game with the sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ pulled pork! This recipe combines the tender, slow-cooked pork with crispy tortillas, creamy toppings, and a sprinkle of magic.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper. Add it to the slow cooker with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce.
3. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and shreds easily.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with remaining BBQ sauce.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble chalupas by spooning pork onto tortillas, followed by cheese, onion, bell pepper, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker), 30 minutes (assembly)
Cheesy Beef and Bean Chalupas
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and savory chalupas packed with beef, beans, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the black beans and cook for an additional minute.
4. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Fry the tortillas for 30-45 seconds on each side, until slightly puffed and pliable.
6. Assemble the chalupas by spooning the beef and bean mixture onto the fried tortillas, topping with shredded cheese, and serving hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Avocado Chalupas
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and crispy chalupas shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 8-10 corn tortillas (chalupas shells)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast chalupas shells by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips.
5. Assemble the chalupas by spreading a layer of avocado on each shell, followed by a few slices of grilled chicken, and finishing with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb and Mint Chalupas
Elevate your taco game with these flavorful lamb and mint chalupas, perfect for a unique dinner or party appetizer. The combination of tender lamb, fresh mint, and crispy tortillas will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add lamb, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Stir in chopped mint 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 lamb mixture onto tortillas and topping with cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chalupas
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy, flavorful chalupas filled with roasted sweet potatoes and creamy black beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the chalupas by spooning the sweet potato and black bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Chalupas
Elevate your snack game with these Buffalo Chicken Chalupas, packed with juicy chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and spicy buffalo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot buffalo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro and sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce until well combined.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble chalupas by spooning the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese (about 1/4 cup).
5. Place chalupas on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with cilantro, sour cream, and additional blue cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Taco-Style Chalupas
Get ready to take your taco game to the next level with these crispy, flavorful fish chalupas! By using beer-battered cod and pairing it with creamy slaw and tangy chipotle crema, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup beer
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chipotle crema (store-bought or homemade)
– Shredded cabbage
– Diced cilantro
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together beer, flour, and paprika.
2. Dip cod pieces into the beer mixture, coating evenly.
3. Fry coated cod in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble chalupas by placing fish pieces onto warmed tortillas, topping with slaw, crema, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Chalupas
Elevate your chalupa game with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and spinach. This recipe combines tender mushrooms, wilted spinach, and creamy cheese to create a deliciously unique twist on the classic street food.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of corn tortillas
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in spinach leaves; cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble chalupas by spooning mushroom-spinach mixture onto tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
Pineapple Pork Chalupas
Pineapple Pork Chalupas Recipe
Transform your taco Tuesday with this unique fusion of flavors and textures! Pineapple adds a sweet and tangy twist to the classic pork chalupa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add pineapple chunks, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until the pineapple is caramelized and the mixture is fully combined.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and set aside.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble chalupas by spooning pork mixture onto tortillas, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Chalupas
Elevate your snack game with these delicious Turkey and Cranberry Chalupas, perfect for game day or any gathering. Crispy tortillas filled with savory turkey, tangy cranberries, and creamy cheese will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together turkey, cranberries, cream cheese, and honey until well combined.
3. Arrange tortillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the turkey-cranberry mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Jackfruit Chalupas
Vegan Jackfruit Chalupas Recipe
Get ready to level up your vegan game with these mouthwatering chalupas filled with tender jackfruit, crunchy slaw, and a dollop of creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 can jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw made with shredded red cabbage, carrots, and a drizzle of apple cider vinegar
– Avocado slices for serving
– Optional: sour cream or vegan crema for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the jackfruit and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans, cheddar shreds, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the chalupas by spooning the jackfruit mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a dollop of slaw and a slice of avocado.
6. Serve immediately, or store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Nacho Chalupas
Get ready for a flavorful fiesta with these loaded nacho chalupas, packed with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Tortilla chips, for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, cream of mushroom soup, olive oil, and cumin. Cook over medium heat until heated through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble chalupas by spooning chicken mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 flavorful chalupa recipes, perfect for any occasion! From classic beef and bean to seafood-inspired options, there’s something for everyone. Try slow cooker beef chalupas or chicken tinga chalupas for a twist on traditional tacos. For vegetarians and vegans, there are delicious black bean, sweet potato, and jackfruit options. And don’t forget about the breakfast-inspired chalupas, loaded with egg and chorizo or avocado and grilled chicken. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to impress.
