As autumn leaves start to dance in the wind, I find myself craving cozy recipes that marry fun and flavor. These delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies are just the ticket! Perfectly suited for Halloween celebrations or casual family dinners, they take the traditional taco experience and turn it into a playful, hand-held delight. With the convenience of pre-made pie crusts, the preparation is a breeze, allowing you to whip up a spooky treat in no time. But the best part? You can customize the filling to suit everyone’s taste—from savory ground beef to zesty veggies, making them a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Are you ready to embrace a little culinary fun this Halloween? Let’s dive into this spooktacular recipe!
Why You’ll Love Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few ingredients and pre-made pie crusts, these festive hand pies are easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holiday fun.
Customizable Fillings: Whether you prefer classic ground beef or want to explore vegetarian options, the choice is yours! You can even switch to exciting pizza-style hand pies for an unexpected twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These ghostly delights are not just for kids; adults will love their savory, flavorful filling too! Serve them at your Halloween party or casual family dinners for smiles all around.
Perfect Presentation: Shaped like little ghosts, these hand pies add a fun and spooky visual element to your meal that’s sure to entertain your guests, just like with my Fish Tacos Lime or a festive Taco Rice Bowl.
Quick Cleanup: The use of pre-made ingredients means you can indulge in deliciousness without the hassle of a messy kitchen. Perfect for a busy Halloween night!
Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are not only fun but also incredibly easy to whip up!
For the Filling
- Ground Beef, Turkey, or Chicken – Your choice of protein makes these pies hearty; swap with plant-based meat for a vegetarian delight.
- Taco Seasoning – Essential for flavor; a homemade blend can help you manage the salt content.
- Shredded Carrot – Optional but adds a hint of sweetness and nutrition; you can also use finely chopped bell pepper or spinach if you’d like.
- Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Boosts both taste and nutrition; feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies.
For the Hand Pies
- Pie Crusts – A quick and convenient base; look for refrigerated options for an effortless assembly.
- Shredded Mexican Cheese – Adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor; try other cheese varieties if you prefer.
- Egg – Used for the egg wash; gives the pies a shiny, golden finish when baked.
For Dipping
- Salsa and Guacamole – Perfect complements to the hand pies; add moisture and extra flavor to your spooktacular meal!
Here you go—these ingredients will help you create the fun and tasty Ghost Taco Hand Pies that everyone will love this Halloween!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown your choice of ground beef, turkey, or chicken until fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and any optional veggies, like shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers, mixing everything well. Once the filling is well combined, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly as you prep the pie crusts.
Step 2: Roll and Cut Crust
On a floured surface, roll out the pre-made pie crusts to about 1/8 inch thickness for easy handling. Using ghost-shaped cookie cutters, cut out equal numbers of ghost shapes for the top and bottom of your hand pies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure to have ready pairs for each filled pie.
Step 3: Fill Ghosts
Arrange half of the ghost-shaped cutouts on the baking sheet, leaving space between each. Spoon a generous amount of the taco filling into the center of each ghost shape, taking care not to overfill to avoid spills. Sprinkle some shredded Mexican cheese over the filling for that extra gooey goodness before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Seal Pies
Take the remaining ghost shapes and carefully cut out eyes and mouth shapes with a smaller cookie cutter or knife. Place these cut-outs over the filled pies, aligning them perfectly. Use a fork to press down the edges thoroughly, sealing the pies tightly and ensuring no filling escapes during baking.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with a splash of water or milk to create an egg wash. With a pastry brush, gently coat the tops of each sealed Ghost Taco Hand Pie, ensuring an even layer for a beautiful golden finish once baked. This step enhances the pie’s appearance while adding a delightful sheen.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once ready, place the baking sheet with your Ghost Taco Hand Pies into the oven. Bake them for about 10–14 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the crust looks flaky and inviting. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Once cooled, serve these delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies with your favorite dipping sides such as salsa and guacamole. Enjoy their warm, crispy exterior paired with the savory and flavorful filling!
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
-
Dough Handling: Keep your pie crusts chilled until ready to use; warm dough can be harder to work with and may not hold its shape during baking.
-
Avoid Overstuffing: Fill your Ghost Taco Hand Pies with just enough filling to keep them delicious, but not so much that they burst open while baking—a common mishap!
-
Cuts for Eyes and Mouth: Use a small round cutter or even a knife for precise cuts on the ghost shapes; this will enhance the spooky appearance of your hand pies.
-
Egg Wash Properly: Ensure an even application of the egg wash for that perfect golden color; it also adds a slight shine that makes your pies look irresistible.
-
Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with your favorite fillings; the beauty of Ghost Taco Hand Pies is their adaptability to various tastes and dietary preferences, especially with the focus on fun for Halloween!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Ghost Taco Hand Pies by exploring these delightful twists!
-
Vegetarian: Swap ground meat for a blend of black beans, corn, and spices for a filling that’s hearty yet meat-free.
Vegetarian options add a rich texture and burst of flavor, catering to everyone at the table. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra zing that heat lovers will adore.
A little spice can elevate the entire dish, making these hand pies more exciting for those with adventurous palates. -
Pizza Style: Transform them into pizza hand pies by filling with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni for a fun twist!
These savory pockets are sure to please, bringing beloved pizza flavors into a festive Halloween treat. -
Cheesy Surprise: Include a mix of different cheeses like cheddar and pepper jack for an ooey-gooey filling that’s truly irresistible.
The cheesy goodness paired with a flaky crust offers a delightful bite that everyone will want more of! -
Sweet Surprise: For a fun dessert option, try filling them with a mixture of chocolate chips and marshmallows for a s’mores vibe.
These sweet hand pies can round out a Halloween party, giving guests a playful treat to enjoy after the savory pies. -
Make them Mini: Use smaller cookie cutters to create bite-sized hand pies, perfect for kids’ parties or as appetizers.
Mini versions are perfect for grabbing while mingling, making them a hit at any gathering! -
Crispy On The Outside: Brush the crust with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips before baking for added crunch and flavor.
This simple trick can elevate the pie, adding more texture and a fun twist to each bite. -
Add Veggie Medley: Incorporate your choice of sautéed veggies, like zucchini or mushrooms, to bulk up the filling and add nutrition.
A veggie boost not only enhances the taste but also gives an extra color that will catch the eyes of your guests.
Whichever variation you choose, embrace the joy of customization with these delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies!
Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
-
Room Temperature: Allow any leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool to room temperature before storing. They can be left out for up to 2 hours but are best kept refrigerated.
-
Fridge: Place leftover hand pies in an airtight container to keep them fresh in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual hand pies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
-
Reheating: To enjoy your Ghost Taco Hand Pies again, reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy, about 10–12 minutes from frozen.
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Elevate your spooky feast with delightful side dishes and drinks that complement the flavor of your ghostly hand pies.
- Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory pies.
- Mexican Corn Salad: This sweet and tangy dish rounds out the meal, offering a delicious balance that echoes the taco flavors.
- Spicy Black Beans: Rich in flavor and protein, they provide a satisfying accompaniment to your hand pies while adding a touch of heat.
- Guacamole & Chips: The creamy texture of guacamole against crispy tortilla chips enhances the dip experience, making each bite richer.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: A side of zesty rice pairs beautifully with the hand pies, soaking up any leftover salsa or guacamole.
- Pumpkin Spice Sangria: Embrace the fall spirit with a refreshing drink that combines fruity flavors with warm spices—perfect for Halloween.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm cookies add a comforting sweetness, creating a delightful finish after the savory hand pies.
- Frozen Margarita: A chilly, tangy margarita can bring a fun party vibe, complementing the festive atmosphere of your spooky gathering.
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the Halloween rush! You can prepare the taco filling (ground meat and veggies) up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook and cool the filling, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cut the pie crust shapes and assemble the hand pies up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Before serving, brush with egg wash and bake as per instructions, and you’ll have delicious, flaky hand pies that are just as tasty as if they were made fresh on the day. Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing flavor!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of meat should I use for the filling?
You can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute with plant-based meat or even beans for added texture and flavor.
How should I store leftover hand pies?
After cooling to room temperature, place any leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until crispy and warmed through—this usually takes about 10–12 minutes if they’re frozen.
What should I do if my hand pies overflow while baking?
This can happen if they’re overstuffed! To prevent this, make sure to fill your Ghost Taco Hand Pies generously but not excessively. If they do overflow, a small slit on top can help steam escape and keep your pies in good shape during baking.
What other fillings can I use?
You can get creative with different fillings! Consider making pizza-style hand pies with pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Just ensure that whatever filling you choose is cooked through before placing it inside, especially if it’s a raw protein.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary needs, feel free to swap ingredients. Use gluten-free pie crusts for those with gluten sensitivities or opt for low-sodium taco seasoning to accommodate dietary restrictions. Always check for allergens with any pre-made ingredient you use.
Ghost Taco Hand Pies for a Spooktacular Halloween Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown your choice of ground beef, turkey, or chicken until fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and any optional veggies like shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly as you prep the pie crusts.
- On a floured surface, roll out the pre-made pie crusts to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out equal numbers of ghost shapes for the top and bottom of your hand pies.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Arrange half of the ghost-shaped cutouts on the baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the taco filling into each ghost shape and sprinkle some shredded Mexican cheese over the filling.
- Take the remaining ghost shapes and cut out eyes and mouth shapes. Place these cut-outs over the filled pies and seal the edges with a fork.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the hand pies for about 10–14 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving with salsa and guacamole.
Leave a Reply