This homemade Crunchwrap Supreme brings the beloved Taco Bell classic straight to your kitchen! With its crispy outer layer, creamy fillings, and hearty seasoned beef, it’s as satisfying as ever—but now you can customize it to suit your tastes. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or add your own twists, this step-by-step guide will have you rolling up crunchy perfection in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The combination of a crispy flour tortilla, crunchy tostada shell, and layers of cheesy goodness, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, and seasoned beef creates a handheld masterpiece that’s both fun and filling. Plus, making it at home lets you control the ingredients, spice level, and portion sizes for an even better experience.
Ingredients:
For the Seasoned Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (or refried beans, ground turkey, or plant-based meat alternative)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas (the bigger, the better!)
- 2 small tostada shells (per wrap, for crunch)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra melty flavor)
- 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce (or romaine for added nutrition)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- Vegetable oil , for frying
Optional Additions:
- Guacamole or sliced avocado
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Black olives
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Seasoned Beef
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat , combine the ground beef , cumin , chili powder , paprika , salt , and pepper .
- Cook the mixture, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink (about 6 minutes ). Remove the cooked beef into a bowl and set aside. Drain any excess fat and wipe the skillet clean.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortilla Base
- Heat vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat . Once hot, lightly fry each flour tortilla on both sides until golden and slightly crispy (about 30 seconds per side ). Set aside on paper towels to cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Crunchwrap
- Lay one fried tortilla flat on a work surface. Place half of a tostada shell in the center of the tortilla—it will act as the crunchy base.
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of seasoned beef onto the tostada shell. Top with:
- A drizzle of nacho cheese sauce
- A dollop of sour cream
- Sprinkles of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
- Layers of shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes
Step 4: Fold It Up
- Carefully fold the edges of the tortilla inward, pleating as needed, to completely enclose the fillings. Use toothpicks if necessary to hold the wrap together while cooking.
- Flip the assembled wrap seam-side down onto another tortilla (unfried) to create a double-layered tortilla exterior. This helps prevent leaks during frying.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
- Return the skillet with vegetable oil to medium-high heat . Gently place the assembled Crunchwrap in the skillet, seam-side down.
- Fry the Crunchwrap for 2–3 minutes per side , pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even browning. The outside should be golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Remove the Crunchwrap from the skillet and let it rest briefly. Slice in half diagonally for easier eating.
- Garnish with additional toppings like guacamole, salsa, or black olives before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Use Large Tortillas: Bigger tortillas make folding and sealing easier, reducing the risk of spills.
- Fry Slowly: Don’t rush the frying process—cooking slowly ensures the outer layer crisps evenly without burning.
- Customize Your Fillings: Swap out iceberg lettuce for spinach or arugula, add jalapeños for heat, or include cooked rice for extra substance.
- Double Wrap Technique: Wrapping the filled tortilla inside another tortilla keeps everything secure and prevents leaks when frying.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 wraps
- Calories per Serving: ~500 kcal (approximate)
Perfect Pairings:
- Refresher Drinks: Pair with a cold soda, lemonade, or horchata for a refreshing contrast.
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside corn chips, a side salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- Dipping Sauce: Offer ranch dressing or chipotle mayo on the side for dipping.
Why It’s Perfect Anytime:
This Crunchwrap Supreme delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. Its portable nature makes it ideal for lunches, picnics, or quick dinners. Plus, assembling it at home means you can tailor the spiciness, cheese amount, and protein choice to fit your preferences.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy this delicious twist on a fast-food favorite. Your taste buds—and wallet—will thank you! 🍴✨
