Name: Spooky Ghost Taco Hand Pies for a Fun Halloween Feast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (or Turkey/Chicken); 1 packet Taco Seasoning (Consider making your own); 1/2 cup Shredded Carrot (Optional); 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (Feel free to replace with your preferred greens); 2 crusts Pie Crusts (Store-bought saves time); 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese (Substitute with any cheese that melts well); 1 large Egg (Or use milk for a lighter finish)

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As the chill of autumn settles in, the eerie excitement of Halloween begins to envelop us, and nothing captures that spirit quite like these Ghost Taco Hand Pies. These delightful little pockets are a surprising twist on your favorite taco flavors, cleverly disguised as spooky ghosts that will enchant both kids and adults alike. Not only are they quick and easy to whip up using store-bought pie crusts, but their adaptability means you can customize the filling to suit any taste—taco or even pizza! Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy family dinner, these hand pies are a playful way to engage in the seasonal fun. Are you ready to bring a touch of creativity to your Halloween table? Let’s dive into this deliciously spooky recipe!

Why are Ghost Taco Hand Pies a must-try?

Surprising Twist: These hand pies combine the classic flavors of tacos with a fun Halloween twist that kids and adults will adore.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and store-bought pie crusts, you can create this delightful treat in no time.

Customizable Fillings: Whether you prefer traditional taco flavors or want to try a pizza filling, these hand pies are highly adaptable to your taste.

Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties or family dinners, they add a playful element to your Halloween celebrations that will impress guests.

Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved by letting them shape their own ghost pies—cooking together fosters creativity and enjoyment in the kitchen!

Serve these with your favorite salsa or guacamole for an extra kick that everyone will love!

Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients

• For the Filling

Lean Ground Beef (or Turkey/Chicken) – This savory protein is essential for a rich filling; you can swap in ground meat alternatives for a healthier option.
Taco Seasoning – Adds that signature spice to your filling; consider making your own to manage the seasoning and salt level.
Shredded Carrot – Optional for extra nutrition and a hint of sweetness; you can substitute it with other finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or bell pepper.
Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Adds flavor and nutrients; feel free to replace with your preferred greens if desired.

• For the Crust

Pie Crusts – Provides that flaky, golden exterior; store-bought saves time, but homemade adds a delicious touch.

• For the Finish

Shredded Mexican Cheese – Elevates the filling with creamy richness; substitute with any cheese that melts well for a different twist.
Egg – Used for brushing on top for a beautiful golden finish after baking; you could also use milk as an alternative for a lighter gloss.

These adorable Ghost Taco Hand Pies will certainly conjure up smiles at your Halloween gathering, combining flavor with festive fun!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Taco Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of lean ground beef (or turkey/chicken) for about 5-6 minutes until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and any optional vegetables like shredded carrot or chopped bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through, creating a savory filling for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Step 2: Roll and Cut Crust
Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts on a clean surface, and use a rolling pin to flatten slightly. With a ghost-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many shapes as possible, ensuring you have an equal number of tops and bottoms for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Place the cut pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving you a fun and festive base for your filling.

Step 3: Fill Ghosts
Take half of the ghost-shaped crusts on your baking sheet and spoon in the savory taco filling, being careful not to overstuff. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Mexican cheese on top of each filled ghost pie. This step ensures that every Ghost Taco Hand Pie is packed with flavor, just waiting to be sealed and baked.

Step 4: Seal Pies
Cut out eyes and a mouth on the remaining ghost-shaped crusts to create the spooky faces. Carefully place these decorated tops over the filled bottoms, pressing gently to seal the edges. Use a fork to crimp the edges together securely, ensuring no filling escapes while baking. This technique will also enhance the aesthetic of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Step 5: Brush and Bake
Whisk one egg to create an egg wash and brush it over the tops of each ghost pie for a beautiful, glossy finish. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the hand pies for 10-14 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them; the golden color indicates that your Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfectly baked.

Step 6: Serve
Once baked to perfection, allow the Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve warm alongside salsa and guacamole for dipping, providing a delightful contrast to the savory filling. Your spooky treats are now ready to impress family and friends at your Halloween gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness with minimal last-minute effort. You can prepare the taco filling and assemble the hand pies up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them once assembled. To keep the crusts crisp, store them in a sealed container and avoid overstuffing to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, brush on the egg wash and bake directly from the fridge for an additional couple of minutes, ensuring they’re hot and flaky. With these make-ahead tips, you can delight your family or guests with these tasty hand pies, saving time without sacrificing flavor!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tailor these hand pies to your liking!

Vegetarian: Swap ground meat for cooked lentils or black beans for a hearty, plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or chipotle seasoning to the taco filling for a delightful kick that heat lovers will appreciate.
Cheesy Veggie: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or zucchini with the cheese for a deliciously cheesy hand pie, perfect for sneaking in extra veggies.
Sweet Pizza Variation: For a surprising treat, fill with pizza sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni, or even sweet fillings like Nutella and bananas, using holiday cookie cutters for a festive touch.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust alternative to cater to dietary needs without compromising on taste. There are plenty of delicious options available today.
Air Fryer: For a healthier twist, try cooking your hand pies in the air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F and air fry for about 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for a refreshing flavor boost that will elevate the overall taste.
Breakfast Version: Experiment with breakfast fillings—scrambled eggs, chives, and bacon or sausage create a fun morning hand pie that’s sure to delight.

When preparing your Ghost Taco Hand Pies, don’t forget to serve them with your favorite salsa or guacamole for an irresistible dip!

What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies

These delightful hand pies bring a festive spirit to your table, and pairing them with the right accompaniments makes for a truly memorable meal.

Fresh Salsa: This vibrant, zesty salsa adds a burst of flavor, perfectly complementing the savory filling of the hand pies. The freshness brightens each bite!
Creamy Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole offers a rich counterpoint to the flaky pastry and spicy filling. It’s a crowd-favorite dip that’s hard to resist.
Crunchy Mexican Street Corn Salad: Serve this colorful salad alongside the hand pies for a delightful textural contrast. The sweetness of the corn and tangy lime dressing balance the savory hand pies beautifully.
Spicy Nachos: Add some crunchy nachos to the table for a fun sharing experience! Their salty, cheesy flavors enhance the entire Halloween spread, making it even more exciting.
Roasted Pumpkin Soup: A warm and comforting bowl of pumpkin soup echoes the autumn vibes while providing a soothing backdrop to the hand pies. It creates a cozy dining atmosphere that invites conversation.
Fizzy Lime Sparkler: For a refreshing drink, try this zesty mocktail! The effervescence and tangy flavor elevate the Halloween spirit, ensuring a delightful sip in between bites.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your spooky feast on a sweet note! These treats are perfect for dipping and bring a magical touch to your Halloween celebration.

Pairing these accompaniments with your Ghost Taco Hand Pies will ensure your gathering is filled with flavor, fun, and festive enjoyment.

Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Don’t Overstuff: Ensure the filling is cozy, not overflowing. Overstuffed pies can burst open during baking, ruining the spooky look.
Shape Consistency: Use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter for uniformity. A small round tool can also help create equally sized eyes and mouths for a neat appearance.
Stay Golden: Brush with egg wash for a shiny, golden finish. If you prefer a lighter option, milk can also give you a nice glaze without the richness.
Cooling Time: Let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving. This prevents burning mouths and enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Flexible Fillings: Feel free to switch up the filling. These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are just as delightful with BBQ chicken or a vegetarian stuffing, catering to all taste buds!

Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Enjoy these savory treats fresh! If left out, they can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours during serving.
Fridge: Store any leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them tasty and fresh for your next snack!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hand pies before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the refrigerated or thawed Ghost Taco Hand Pies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or use an air fryer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring they’re warmed through.

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! When choosing your produce, look for firm, fresh vegetables. For bell peppers, select ones that are vibrant and shiny with no dark spots. For carrots, opt for those that feel solid and free of blemishes, ensuring your filling is both tasty and nutritious.

How long can I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely before placing them in the container to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.

Can I freeze the Ghost Taco Hand Pies? How?
Certainly! To freeze, assemble the hand pies but do not bake them. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake from frozen, simply preheat your oven and add about 5-7 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.

What should I do if my hand pies burst while baking?
If you find your Ghost Taco Hand Pies bursting, it often means they were overstuffed. To prevent this in the future, be sure to leave a little space while filling them to allow for expansion. Also, cutting small slits in the top of the crust can help steam escape without causing the pies to split.

Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies suitable for kids and pets?
Very! These hand pies make for a perfect family-friendly dish, but be cautious with spices. For pets, it’s wise to avoid sharing as the spices and certain ingredients (like onions) can be harmful. Always check your filling ingredients to ensure safety for all family members.

Can I make variations of Ghost Taco Hand Pies for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also use gluten-free pie crusts to cater to those with gluten sensitivities. These hand pies are wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to experiment with various fillings based on dietary preferences!