Directions

1. 1. In a large skillet combine the ground beef, onion, chili powder, paprika, salt and black pepper. Cook over medium high heat stirring regularly to break up the chunks and keep it from burning. Remove from heat, drain off any excess grease and keep warm.
2. 2. Fill a heavy skillet with about an inch of cooking oil and place over medium high heat (6 on a scale of 10). Let the oil reach full temperature (350 degrees F). Cook each shell for about 30 seconds, holding it down against the bottom of the skillet and forming it with metal spatulas. Drain on paper towels.
3. 3. Assemble the chalupas starting with the meat, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese and sour cream.
4. 4. Top with hot sauce or salsa if desired.