Description

Chalupas are a delicious Mexican street food made with crisped corn tortillas and layered with seasoned meat, refried beans, lettuce, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Think of them like a tostada, but slightly thicker and more indulgent. Great for dinner, parties, or build-your-own taco nights!

Ingredients

For the base:

6-8 corn tortillas (or small chalupa shells)
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the toppings:

1 1/2 cups refried beans (warmed)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken, beef, or pork (seasoned to your liking)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, queso fresco, or Monterey Jack)
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup diced white onion
Sour cream or Mexican crema
Salsa or hot sauce
Optional: avocado slices, jalapeños, chopped cilantro

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Instructions

Fry the tortillas: Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add one tortilla at a time and fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
Layer the toppings: Spread a thin layer of refried beans on each fried tortilla. Add a generous spoonful of meat, then top with lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and onions.
Add finishing touches: Drizzle with sour cream, crema, or salsa. Add avocado, jalapeños, or cilantro if desired.
Serve immediately while the chalupa shells are still crispy.

Notes

For a more authentic version, try using masa dough to form thicker chalupa shells and fry them until golden.

Vegetarian option: skip the meat and double up on beans, cheese, and veggies.

Chalupas are best assembled right before serving to keep the shells crispy.