Chalupas are a traditional Mexican street food made with fried corn tortillas topped with savory ingredients like shredded meat, salsa, cheese, and lettuce. With a crispy shell and flavorful toppings, they’re similar in structure to tostadas but often smaller and boat-shaped, especially in their Puebla-style form. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, chalupas are crunchy, delicious, and easy to customize.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chalupas are simple to prepare, yet bursting with flavor and texture. They’re versatile — you can top them with almost anything — and fun to assemble. The crispy shell holds up well to the toppings, making them a great party food or weeknight dinner idea. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and a great way to use up leftover meats and veggies.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Small corn tortillas
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Refried beans or salsa (as a base layer)
Cooked shredded chicken, pork, or beef
Lettuce or cabbage, shredded
Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
Diced onion
Mexican crema or sour cream
Salsa (red or green)
Optional: avocado, radishes, chopped cilantro, lime wedges

directions

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each tortilla until crisp but still slightly pliable in the center, about 1–2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Spread a base layer of refried beans or salsa onto each tortilla.
Top with meat of your choice and a spoonful of salsa.
Add shredded lettuce or cabbage, followed by diced onions, cheese, and crema.
Garnish with avocado slices, cilantro, and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Makes 6 chalupas
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Puebla-style chalupas: Use only salsa, onion, and shredded meat on a small fried tortilla — no beans or lettuce.
Vegetarian: Use beans, grilled veggies, or mushrooms instead of meat.
Taco Bell-style chalupa: Use thick flatbread and deep-fry until golden, then stuff like a taco.
Spicy version: Top with hot salsa, jalapeños, or chipotle crema.
Mini chalupas: Use street taco-size tortillas for bite-sized snacks.

storage/reheating

Chalupas are best served fresh, but you can prep components ahead of time. Store fried tortillas separately in an airtight container for 1–2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp up before topping. Keep toppings refrigerated and assemble just before serving to maintain texture.

FAQs

What is the difference between chalupas and tostadas?

Chalupas are typically smaller and fried just until lightly crispy, often with a slight curve. Tostadas are flat and fully crisp throughout.

Can I bake instead of fry the tortillas?

Yes, brush with oil and bake at 400°F for 5–7 minutes per side until crispy.

Can I use flour tortillas?

Traditional chalupas use corn tortillas, but flour tortillas can be used for a softer, chewier version.

What meats work best for chalupas?

Shredded chicken, carnitas, ground beef, or even leftover barbacoa are all great options.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas.

How do I keep chalupas from getting soggy?

Fry the tortillas until just crisp, and don’t overload them with wet toppings. Assemble right before serving.

What’s the best cheese for chalupas?

Queso fresco, cotija, or shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar work well.

Are chalupas spicy?

Not necessarily — the spice level depends on your choice of salsa and toppings.

Can I freeze the tortillas after frying?

It’s best not to, as the texture can become chewy. For make-ahead, store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.

What sides go well with chalupas?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a light salad.

Conclusion

Chalupas are a crispy, flavorful dish that captures the best of Mexican street food — simple ingredients, bold flavors, and endless customization. Whether you stick with the traditional style or load them up with your favorite toppings, these little tortilla boats are sure to satisfy. Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, and enjoy every crunchy, savory bite.

Chalupas