Name: Delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies for a Spooky Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (or Turkey/Chicken); 1 packet Taco Seasoning (or homemade); 1/2 cup Shredded Carrot (or Zucchini); 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper (or Baby Spinach); 2 sheets Refrigerated Pie Crusts (can use puff pastry); 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese (or dairy-free cheese); 1 large Egg (for brushing); 1 cup Salsa (homemade or store-bought)

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As I sifted through my Halloween recipe box, a spark of creativity ignited when I stumbled upon the idea of Ghost Taco Hand Pies. These enchanting little pastries are a fantastic way to blend festive fun and delicious flavor in one bite-sized treat. Perfect for Halloween gatherings or cozy family dinners, these hand pies are not only quick and easy to whip up but also kid-friendly, transforming any meal into a playful experience. Imagine your loved ones diving into these savory pockets of tasty taco filling, dunking them in zesty salsa or guacamole. It’s a recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds, whether they’re young or just young at heart! Ready to bring some spooky excitement to your kitchen?

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Why You’ll Love Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Fun and Festive: These delightful hand pies are not just delicious; they bring Halloween spirit to the dinner table. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a tasty treat ready in no time! Kid-Friendly Fun: Let the little ones help shape the pies into ghosts; they’ll love it! Savory Filling: Packed with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, every bite is a flavor explosion. Versatility: Swap out the filling for pizza ingredients for a unique twist that’s sure to please anyone. Grab the kiddos and start creating memories filled with laughter and flavor!

Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients

Unleash your creativity with this playful treat!

For the Filling
Lean Ground Beef (or Turkey/Chicken) – This is your main protein; feel free to swap it for plant-based meat for a yummy vegetarian option.
Taco Seasoning – Infuses authentic Mexican flavors; consider making your own for a healthier twist.
Shredded Carrot – Adds a hint of sweetness and nutrition; zucchini is a great substitute if you’d like!
Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Sneak in some extra veggies; mushrooms work well too if you have them on hand.
For the Crust
Refrigerated Pie Crusts – These make for a flaky exterior; you can use puff pastry for a puffier delight.
For the Assembly
Shredded Mexican Cheese – Melty and cheesy goodness; try dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
Egg (for Brushing) – Provides a lovely golden finish; skip it if you want to keep things egg-free.
For Dipping
Salsa – A zesty companion for your hand pies; homemade or store-bought, both are equally tasty.

Get ready to enjoy these deliciously spooky Ghost Taco Hand Pies with your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Taco Filling
In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of lean ground beef, breaking it into crumbles for even cooking. After about 5 minutes, add 1 packet of taco seasoning along with any optional veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Pie Crusts
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Dust a clean surface with flour and unroll the refrigerated pie crusts. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out ghost shapes, ensuring you have an even number—one for each top and bottom. Lay the cut-out crusts onto lined baking sheets, ready for the next step.

Step 3: Fill Ghosts
Take half of the ghost shapes and carefully spoon a small amount of the taco filling onto the center of each. Sprinkle a little shredded Mexican cheese over the filling for added flavor. Be sure to leave enough space at the edges for sealing, as this will help keep your Ghost Taco Hand Pies intact during baking.

Step 4: Seal Pies
Using the remaining ghost shapes, cut small eyes and mouths into each using small round objects or a knife. Carefully place these tops over the filled ghost shapes to create the hand pies. Gently press the edges together and use a fork to seal them securely, ensuring no filling escapes while baking.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with a splash of water or milk until smooth. Using a pastry brush, apply the egg wash evenly over the top of each ghost pie to achieve a beautiful golden color when baked. This step enhances the spooky appearance of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies!

Step 6: Bake
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake the Ghost Taco Hand Pies for 10-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for a golden brown color indicating they’re perfectly baked and ready to enjoy. The aroma of savory taco filling will fill your kitchen as they cook!

Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. Serve the warm Ghost Taco Hand Pies immediately with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping. Their playful shape and scrumptious filling will delight your family and friends during any Halloween gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are a fantastic recipe for meal prep! You can prepare the taco filling (1 pound of ground beef, taco seasoning, and optional veggies) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cut out the ghost shapes from the pie crusts up to 24 hours before baking, keeping them in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap to avoid drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just fill and seal the hand pies with the prepped filling, apply the egg wash, and bake. This approach saves you time and ensures a fresh, tasty treat that’s just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Ghost Taco Hand Pies fresh for up to 2 hours if left at room temperature. After that, store them in the fridge for best results.
Fridge: Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked pies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, bake directly from the freezer at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring a delightful crispy crust for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to add too much taco filling; overfilling can lead to messy spills during sealing and baking.
Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife works best for cutting out eyes and mouths in the ghost shapes to create fun, crispy details on your pies.
Don’t Skimp on Sealing: Make sure to firmly seal the edges of the pies with a fork; this will prevent any filling from leaking out while baking.
Add Steam Holes: Cut a few small slits in the tops of the ghost shapes to allow steam to escape, preventing the pies from bursting in the oven.
Try the Variations: Experiment with different fillings like pizza ingredients or sautéed vegetables to make these Ghost Taco Hand Pies to suit everyone’s tastes!
Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover taco filling, don’t let it go to waste! Use it in quesadillas or serve over a fresh salad for a tasty twist.

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these ghostly delights in exciting ways!

Pizza Version: Swap the taco filling with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings for a spooky pizza twist.
Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based ground meat or black beans instead of ground beef for a delicious vegetarian option. This is a great way to cater to diverse dietary preferences in your family!
Sweet Twist: Substitute the savory filling with a mixture of cooked apples, cinnamon, and sugar for a dessert variation. This will tantalize the taste buds and add a surprising sweet note to your Halloween party!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the taco filling for an extra kick of heat that spice lovers will adore. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Cheesy Addition: Incorporate cream cheese or a dollop of sour cream into the filling for added creaminess and richness, creating a deliciously indulgent bite.
Barbecue Chicken: Replace the taco filling with shredded barbecue chicken and cheddar cheese. This tangy twist will be a hit at any gathering!
Loaded Veggies: Toss in your choice of sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, into the filling for an extra nutrient boost that complements the ghostly charm.
Mini Pies: Use smaller cookie cutters to create bite-sized ghost pie appetizers. They’re perfect for snacking and allow guests to try multiple flavors—like our Shredded Chicken Tacos for variety!

Explore these delicious variations, and don’t hesitate to mix and match to create your perfect Ghost Taco Hand Pies!

What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies

A cozy gathering calls for delicious accompaniments that elevate the celebratory spirit!

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up salsa, these chips add a crunchy contrast that perfectly complements the soft, flaky hand pies.
Zesty Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole offers a refreshing twist, pairing beautifully with the savory tacos in every bite.
Fiesta Salad: A vibrant mix of greens, corn, and black beans adds a fresh crunch; it’s a light companion that balances the richness of the pies.
Mexican Street Corn: Sweet, charred corn slathered with lime and cheese brings a burst of flavor that echoes the taco filling’s seasoning.
Fruit Salsa: A surprising sweet twist, fruit salsa can be made with fresh berries or mango; it cuts through the richness for a delightful contrast.
Sangria: A fruity, refreshing drink with a hint of spice that complements the zesty flavors from the hand pies, creating a perfect pairing for Halloween festivities!
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: For a sweet ending, these treats add a lovely salty-sweet dimension and are a fantastic finger-food option to keep the fun going!

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Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting bell peppers or carrots, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. Avoid any that have soft spots or wrinkles, as those may be past their prime. For the ground meat, choosing lean cuts ensures a healthier filling. Freshness contributes greatly to the flavor of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
For storage, place your Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container, and they will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them crispy, consider reheating in the oven or air fryer before serving. Just preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes!

Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Certainly! To freeze your hand pies, assemble them as directed but do not bake. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

What should I do if my pies are leaking filling?
If your hand pies leak filling during baking, it’s likely due to overfilling or insufficient sealing. Make sure to leave enough space around the edges when adding filling and press the edges firmly with a fork. Also, cutting steam holes in the tops helps, as it allows steam to escape without bursting the pies!

Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies safe for pets?
It’s best to keep these hand pies away from pets. The ingredients like taco seasoning and cheese may not sit well with animals and could lead to digestive issues. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly treat, consider making a simple version with cooked meat and veggies, omitting any spices or dairy.

Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily customize your Ghost Taco Hand Pies to fit different dietary needs. Opt for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter filling, and swap out cheese for a dairy-free alternative. Alternatively, check for gluten-free pie crusts to make this dish accessible for gluten-sensitive family members.