As the air grows crisp and the leaves turn, there’s a sense of magic in the kitchen, especially when creating something whimsical like Ghost Taco Hand Pies. These delightful treats don’t just embody the spirit of Halloween—they’re also a quick and easy meal that your family will love! With a flaky, golden crust and a savory taco filling, these hand pies are perfect for both cozy dinners and Halloween celebrations. The best part? You can easily tailor the filling to your family’s taste, whether you’re sticking with classic ground beef or trying a veggie version. Let’s gather those ingredients and craft some spooktacular fun together! What creative fillings will you choose for your ghostly creations?
Why are Ghost Taco Hand Pies a Must-Try?
Spectacularly Easy: You’ll love how simple it is to whip up these spooky hand pies. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, they’re a stress-free option for busy nights.
Endless Flavor Options: Choose your preferred protein or switch things up with veggies to make a satisfying, customizable meal everyone will enjoy. The versatility means you can serve them year-round, not just for Halloween!
Kid-Friendly Fun: They’re not just delicious—these ghostly shapes make for a fun family activity. Kids will adore helping out, making dinner a memorable experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve these at your next gathering, and watch them disappear! Their flaky crust and savory filling ensure they’ll be a hit at any party, just like our Nutter Butter Ghost or Chicken Caesar Tacos.
Time-Saving Treats: Bake them in advance and freeze for a quick meal option later on—perfect for those unexpected guests or busy weeknights. You can’t go wrong with these Ghost Taco Hand Pies!
Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to these spooky delights!
For the Filling
- Lean Ground Beef, Ground Turkey, or Chicken – Your choice of protein gives the hand pies their heartiness; swap for beans for a vegetarian twist!
- Taco Seasoning – Essential for that authentic taco flavor; opt for homemade to customize salt and spice levels.
- Shredded Carrot (Optional) – Adds natural sweetness and nutrition; zucchini works well as a substitute.
- Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (Optional) – Infuse more color and nutrition; feel free to use your favorite veggies like mushrooms or onions.
For the Crust
- Pie Crusts – The foundation for your hand pies; refrigerated is quick and easy, while homemade provides a touch of love.
For Assembly
- Shredded Mexican Cheese – Brings creaminess and flavor; a cheese blend works too or omit for a dairy-free option.
- Egg – Gives a beautiful golden sheen on the crust; skip for a vegan version using plant-based milk instead.
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies promise a delicious meal filled with fun and creativity—perfect for celebrating Halloween with the family!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare Taco Filling
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat and add your choice of lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir in taco seasoning and any optional veggies you desire, like shredded carrots or bell peppers, until everything is well mixed and the veggies are tender.
Step 2: Roll Out Pie Crust
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crusts until they’re about 1/8-inch thick. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to create even shapes, ensuring you have matching pairs for each hand pie. Aim for uniformity to help them bake evenly, and place the cut shapes onto parchment-lined baking sheets as you go.
Step 3: Assemble Hand Pies
Take one ghost shape from the baking sheet and spoon a small amount of the savory taco filling onto the center, being careful not to overfill. Sprinkle a bit of shredded Mexican cheese on top of the filling before placing another ghost shape on top. Press down gently around the edges to seal, then use a fork to crimp and ensure the pies are tightly closed.
Step 4: Add Steam Holes
To allow steam to escape during baking, use a small knife to cut out eye and mouth shapes on the top ghost layer of each hand pie. This step will not only let out moisture but also add to the spooky look of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together an egg and a splash of milk to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the top of each pie with the mixture. This will give your hand pies a beautiful golden sheen as they bake, enhancing their appeal and ensuring they look as good as they taste.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the baking sheets in the oven. Bake for 10-14 minutes, or until the Ghost Taco Hand Pies are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as you want the crust perfectly browned but not overly dark.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the Ghost Taco Hand Pies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets. Serve them warm with salsa or guacamole as delightful accompaniments, perfect for Halloween fun or a cozy family dinner.
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
- Filling Control: Avoid overfilling the pies. A spoonful of filling is perfect; too much may cause them to burst while baking.
- Crust Precision: Make sure to seal the edges well with a fork to prevent any leakage during baking; nobody wants a soggy pie!
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool slightly after baking. This ensures the filling sets up and is easier to handle.
- Creative Shapes: Feel free to use different cookie cutter shapes for various occasions or fun themes, making the Ghost Taco Hand Pies a year-round treat!
- Storage Solutions: Freeze any leftover hand pies for a quick meal option. Just bake them from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!
Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Fridge: Store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hand pies individually on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy. For refrigerated ones, reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Elevate your Halloween gathering with playful pairings that enhance the flavors of these exciting hand pies.
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Fresh Salsa: A zesty addition that brings brightness and freshness, balancing the savory filling while adding a colorful touch to your plate.
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Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole complements the flaky crust perfectly, giving you that rich taste that everyone loves.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: Creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy, this salad offers a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft topping of the hand pies.
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Simply Seasoned Rice: Lightly flavored rice is the perfect blank canvas, soaking up any excess flavors and making the meal feel complete.
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Black Bean Salad: Packed with fiber and protein, this dish can be seasoned with lime and cilantro to add a burst of flavor that complements the tacos without overwhelming them.
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Crisp Tortilla Chips: Serve with your favorite dip for a crunchy side that is always a family favorite, perfect for snacking between sips of your festive drinks.
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Chilled Horchata: This refreshing, sweet rice drink has a mild cinnamon flavor that rounds out the meal, providing a sweet contrast to the savory hand pies.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, classic chocolate chip cookies offer a warm and inviting end to the meal — a sweet treat everyone will enjoy.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions for a delightful Halloween feast!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions
Unleash your creativity with flavors and textures that will make your Ghost Taco Hand Pies uniquely yours!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the meat for black beans or lentils, adding spices for a hearty, plant-based filling. It’s a delicious way to cater to all dietary preferences!
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Cheese Lovers: Infuse double flavors by adding a cheese blend to the filling, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or sharp cheddar for extra zest.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in sweet corn or finely diced jalapeños into the filling to elevate both texture and flavor. Every bite bursts with color and nutrition!
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Pizza Twist: Embrace a savory pizza version by filling with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and your favorite toppings like bell peppers or olives. Perfect for those pizza cravings!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts for a safe, inclusive option that everyone can enjoy. You can still have fun with the shapes!
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Spice it Up: Add diced green chiles or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version that’ll warm you up on chilly nights. It’s a zesty surprise!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano into the filling for an aromatic twist that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
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Sweet Treat: For a dessert variation, switch the savory for sweet by using cinnamon-sugared apples or pumpkin filling. Perfect for a spooky sweet treat!
Each variation offers an exciting twist to your Ghost Taco Hand Pies, ensuring that every creation is just as delightful as the last. And if you’re in the mood for another spooky treat, check out our delightful Nutter Butter Ghost!
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are ideal for busy home cooks who want to savor homemade goodness without the fuss during meal time! You can prepare the taco filling up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the hand pies and freeze them for up to 3 months before baking. Just remember to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—simply pop them in the oven straight from the freezer and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll have delicious, golden Ghost Taco Hand Pies with minimal effort!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of meat can I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef, ground turkey, or chicken for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. If you’d prefer a vegetarian option, beans or a meat substitute work wonderfully, providing the same hearty texture and flavor everyone loves.
How should I store leftover ghost taco hand pies?
To keep your delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the assembled but uncooked Ghost Taco Hand Pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer! When you’re ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What if my ghost taco hand pies burst while baking?
Don’t worry; it happens! A common reason for bursting is overfilling the pies. When assembling, make sure to leave some space around the edges for sealing. Also, cutting out steam holes in the top layer helps any trapped steam escape, keeping your pies intact.
Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies suitable for kids with allergies?
The filling and crust can be easily modified to suit different diets. If your child has dairy allergies, you can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. For gluten-free needs, consider using gluten-free pie crust. Always check individual ingredient labels to ensure safe consumption.
How do I make my ghost taco hand pies more flavorful?
Very! To amp up the flavors, opt for homemade taco seasoning. This way, you can customize the spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste. I also suggest adding a variety of veggies, like diced bell peppers or zucchini, for an extra nutrition boost. Try experimenting with different shapes using cookie cutters for a fun twist!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Perfect for Spooky Family Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the taco filling by cooking your choice of meat in a skillet until browned, then add taco seasoning and veggies.
- Roll out pie crusts on a floured surface and cut out ghost shapes with cookie cutters.
- Assemble hand pies by placing filling and cheese on a ghost shape and covering it with another ghost shape.
- Cut steam holes for decoration and to allow the filling to vent during baking.
- Apply egg wash to the tops of the hand pies for a golden finish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 10-14 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool briefly before serving warm with salsa or guacamole.
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