As the autumn leaves start to fall, I can’t help but feel the excitement of Halloween creeping in. This year, I decided to bring a little spooky fun to our kitchen with these whimsical Ghost Taco Hand Pies! They’re not just adorable; they’re incredibly quick and easy to whip up, making them the ultimate family-friendly snack for your Halloween festivities. Imagine flaky, golden crusts filled with savory taco goodness that kids and adults can’t resist. Paired with fresh salsa or creamy guacamole, these hand pies are bound to be a hit at any gathering. What do you think your little ghouls will fill theirs with? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies Perfect?
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize these hand pies with your favorite proteins or veggies. Whether it’s lean ground beef or a veggie-packed filling, the options are endless!
Quick to Prepare: These delicious snacks require minimal prep time—perfect for busy families or last-minute Halloween parties!
Fun Presentation: Shaped like ghosts, they bring a playful element to your table, making them an instant favorite for kids and adults alike.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The savory taco filling is not only satisfying but paired with salsa or guacamole, they elevate your snack game.
For another fun family-friendly dish, check out this Taco Rice Bowl that brings similar zest to the table!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Filling
• Lean Ground Beef, Turkey, or Chicken – The main protein source; feel free to swap for any lean ground meat for great flavor.
• Taco Seasoning – Essential for that robust taco flavor; consider homemade for tailored spice levels.
• Shredded Carrot (Optional) – Adds natural sweetness and nutrition; zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers work well as substitutes.
• Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (Optional) – Great for a nutritious boost; any finely chopped veggies can work here.
For the Crust
• Defrosted But Unbaked Pie Crusts (2) – These form the base of your hand pies; using pre-made crusts makes everything quicker and easier.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese (1/3 cup) – For creaminess and flavor; substitutions like cheddar or mozzarella are equally delightful.
• Egg (for brushing) – Gives a beautiful golden finish; use milk or a dairy-free alternative if you need a vegan option.
For Dipping
• Salsa (for dipping) – Complements the flavors perfectly; use your favorite homemade or store-bought version for convenience.
These delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pies are bound to be a new Halloween favorite in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the meat is cooked through and no longer pink, stir in the taco seasoning along with any optional shredded carrots, chopped bell peppers, or spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the veggies are tender, then remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 2: Roll Out the Crust
On a lightly floured surface, roll out two defrosted but unbaked pie crusts to about 1/8 inch thick to ensure a flaky texture. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out as many shapes as you can, making sure to have pairs for each hand pie. Place the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for ease of transferring to the oven later.
Step 3: Fill the Hand Pies
Take the ghost-shaped pie bottoms and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the cooled taco filling onto each ghost bottom, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the pies. Sprinkle a little shredded Mexican cheese on top of the filling to add creaminess before placing the corresponding ghost-shaped tops over each filled base.
Step 4: Seal Pies
Using a fork, gently press down along the edges of the hand pies to ensure they’re sealed tightly and prevent any filling from leaking during baking. To let steam escape, cut out small holes or make slits in the tops—this will help the Ghost Taco Hand Pies achieve a perfectly golden and flaky crust.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Brush the tops of the hand pies with an egg wash made by whisking an egg with a splash of water, giving them a shiny, golden finish. Bake the Ghost Taco Hand Pies in the preheated oven for 10-14 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and puffed.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the Ghost Taco Hand Pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, paired with your favorite salsa or creamy guacamole for dipping. Enjoy these playful treats at your Halloween gathering or as a delightful snack!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to enhance your Ghost Taco Hand Pies with these creative options that will tantalize your taste buds!
-
Pizza Twist: Swap the taco filling for pizza ingredients like pizza sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni for a hearty spin. These are a great hit with kids who love the classic pizza flavors!
-
Vegetarian Delight: Use black beans or lentils instead of meat, along with taco seasoning, for a hearty vegetarian option. Packed with protein, this version doesn’t compromise on flavor!
-
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or diced green chilies to the filling for an extra kick of heat. Spicy lovers will enjoy the added flair, balancing well with the creamy cheese.
-
Breakfast Surprise: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked sausage or ham for a unique breakfast version. Imagine the joy of waking up to these savory hand pies for a delicious start to the day!
-
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in more cheese varieties, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a melty, indulgent filling. You can never go wrong with a cheesier take on a classic favorite!
-
Savory Veggie Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or corn into the taco mix for added texture and nutrients. This variation is colorful and deliciously hearty!
-
Cut-Out Creativity: Use different cookie cutter shapes to suit any holiday or theme throughout the year, turning these hand pies into festive treats beyond Halloween. They can become stars for a summer gathering or hearts for a Valentine’s Day surprise!
For another delightful recipe that’s perfect for family gatherings, consider the Fish Tacos Lime that will brighten your table!
Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Allow the Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool completely before storing them at room temperature for up to 2 hours. This prevents condensation and keeps them crispy.
Fridge: Store any leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help preserve their flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze the hand pies before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Ghost Taco Hand Pies again, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy.
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies
These delightful hand pies will have your kitchen buzzing with excitement as they offer a playful twist to your Halloween festivities!
- Creamy Guacamole: Smooth and rich, guacamole adds a cooling creaminess that perfectly balances the savory taco filling.
- Fresh Salsa: A zesty salsa brings brightness and acidity, enhancing the flavor profile of the hand pies. Use your favorite homemade version for an extra touch!
- Tomato Salad: A fresh tomato salad with herbs adds a juicy contrast, making it a refreshing partner for the crispy hand pies.
- Zesty Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad introduces a wholesome touch and complements the flavors with its tangy dressing.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted, corn offers a sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with the savory nature of the hand pies.
- Mini Pumpkin Pies: For dessert, these individual treats echo the fall flavor theme, providing a sweet finish to your festive meal.
- Apple Cider: A glass of warm apple cider can enhance the seasonal vibe while balancing the savory flavors with just the right amount of sweetness.
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
• Watch the Filling: Avoid overfilling your Ghost Taco Hand Pies to prevent bursting. Leave a little space between the filling and edge for sealing.
• Perfectly Shaped Ghosts: Use a cookie cutter for consistent ghost shapes. A fun shape adds to the Halloween spirit and makes them irresistible!
• Steam Holes: Cut out small holes in the tops for steam to escape. This ensures a flaky crust and helps avoid sogginess.
• Crust Handling: Thaw your pie crusts completely before rolling out. This prevents cracking and helps achieve a uniform thickness for better baking.
• Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try different proteins or veggies in your filling for a unique twist on these Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the meat and veggies, let the mixture cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The pie crusts can also be cut into ghost shapes a day ahead; keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the hand pies by adding the filling and cheese to each ghost bottom, sealing them well, brushing with egg wash, and baking at 425°F until golden brown. This approach saves you time and ensures that your Ghost Taco Hand Pies are just as delicious when it’s time to serve!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best meat for my Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken as your protein choice. The key is to select meat that is fresh and not past its sell-by date. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey has less fat, while ground beef provides a richer flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking!
What’s the best way to store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Very handy! After letting them cool completely, store your leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container. They can stay tasty in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend freezing them!
How should I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Of course! If you’re looking to prepare these hand pies in advance, freeze them before baking. Start by wrapping each unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored like this for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply add a few additional minutes to the baking time!
What if my Ghost Taco Hand Pies burst open while baking?
No worries! If your hand pies do burst, it may be due to overfilling them or not sealing the edges properly. Always leave a little space between the filling and the crust edge when assembling. Additionally, make sure to crimp the edges with a fork to seal them well and reduce the chances of any filling escaping during baking.
Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies suitable for kids with allergies?
Great question! If you want to customize these hand pies to accommodate allergies, you can easily substitute ingredients. For instance, use gluten-free pie crusts for those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, if allergies prohibit certain proteins like beef, turkey, or chicken, consider a bean-based filling as an alternative. Always check the labels of store-bought ingredients for potential allergens.
How long can I keep Ghost Taco Hand Pies once they’ve been baked?
After baking, these delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. After that, I recommend transferring them to the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you need to enjoy them later, you can always reheat them in the oven at 350°F for that crispiness we all love!
Spooky Ghost Taco Hand Pies: A Fun Family Snack Adventure
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once cooked through, stir in taco seasoning and optional veggies. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until tender, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the defrosted pie crusts to about 1/8 inch thick. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes, making pairs for each hand pie. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Take the ghost-shaped pie bottoms and place them on the baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of cooled taco filling onto each, leaving a small border for sealing. Sprinkle a little shredded Mexican cheese on top, then place the corresponding tops over each base.
- Press down along the edges of the hand pies with a fork to seal tightly and prevent leakage. Cut small holes in the tops to allow steam to escape.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Brush the tops with an egg wash made by whisking an egg with a splash of water. Bake for 10-14 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, paired with salsa or guacamole for dipping.
Leave a Reply