As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, Halloween creeps around the corner, bringing with it a chill in the air and an urge for festive treats. This year, I wanted to whip up something both playful and delicious, and that’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Picture these delightful little ghosts, bursting with a savory taco filling, ready to haunt your dinner table or be the star of your Halloween party!
Imagine cutting into a flaky, golden crust to reveal cheesy goodness nestled inside, all while the warmth of spices wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. With minimal prep time and a handful of simple ingredients, these hand pies are not only perfect for family gatherings but also a hit with kids who will love their spooky shape.
Serve them with a side of zesty salsa or guacamole for dipping, and watch how quickly they vanish! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just add a bit of fun to your meal, Ghost Taco Hand Pies are the ideal solution. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that will have everyone buzzing with excitement this season!
Why will you love these Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Delightful Shape: These cute ghost-shaped hand pies bring a playful touch to your Halloween festivities, making them a sure hit with families and kids alike!
Quick & Easy: With pre-made pie crusts and a simple filling, this recipe can be prepared in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Savory Goodness: The combination of taco flavors, melty cheese, and optional veggies creates a delicious filling that is both hearty and satisfying.
Versatile Options: Not just for Halloween, try using different fillings like pizza or sweet jams for year-round enjoyment!
Crowd Pleaser: Serve these charming hand pies at parties, and watch guests rave as they bite into crispy, flavorful treats. Plus, don’t forget to explore more kid-friendly meals on the blog for your next cooking adventure!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Ingredients
• To whip up these delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies, gather the following ingredients that bring flavor and fun to your Halloween feast.
For the Filling
- Lean Ground Beef – This primary protein can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Taco Seasoning – Essential for adding flavor to the filling; make your own to control salt and spice levels.
- Shredded Carrot – Optional, but adds a hint of sweetness and extra nutrition; feel free to swap it with finely chopped zucchini.
- Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Optional additions that enhance the flavor and nutritional punch of your filling.
- Shredded Mexican Cheese – Provides that creamy, gooey goodness inside the hand pies; cheddar or Monterey Jack make great alternatives.
For the Crust
- Pie Crusts – Use pre-made for convenience, or go homemade for an extra touch of love.
For Assembly
- Egg – Used for egg wash, this gives your hand pies a beautiful golden finish.
- Salsa – A zesty dipping option that perfectly complements your Ghost Taco Hand Pies; alternatively, guacamole or sour cream works wonderfully too.
Dive into this festive recipe and enjoy the spook-tacular flavors your entire family will love!
How to Make Ghost Taco Hand Pies
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Prepare Taco Filling: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the lean ground beef until it’s nicely crumbled and browned, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and any optional veggies you like for added flavor, then remove from heat.
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Roll and Cut Crust: Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to make shapes, ensuring you have an even number for tops and bottoms.
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Fill and Assemble: Place half of the ghost shapes on baking sheets. Spoon a generous amount of the taco filling into the center, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and cover with the remaining ghost shapes. Use a fork to seal the edges firmly.
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Prepare for Baking: Very carefully cut small holes in the tops of your hand pies to allow steam to escape while baking. Brush the tops with a light egg wash for that shiny finish.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the hand pies for 10-14 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
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Serve: Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving them up with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa or guacamole.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added zesty touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
- Avoid Overfilling: Leave a little space at the edges when adding filling to prevent the Ghost Taco Hand Pies from bursting while baking.
- Cut Steam Holes: Always cut small holes in the tops for steam to escape—this keeps pies from becoming soggy and helps maintain their crispy texture.
- Seal Edges Well: Use a fork to press down firmly on the edges after filling. A good seal ensures your Ghost Taco Hand Pies stay intact while cooking.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven; different ovens may vary. Aim for that golden-brown color for the perfect finish.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to mix up the fillings based on your family’s preferences, but remember to maintain a good balance for the best flavor!
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
These delightful hand pies are perfect for creating a festive and unforgettable meal.
- Zesty Salsa: A fresh, tangy salsa brings a vibrant kick that enhances the rich, cheesy filling of the hand pies.
- Guacamole: Creamy and cool, guacamole balances the savory goodness, making it a favorite dipping choice for kids and adults alike.
- Crispy Corn Tortilla Chips: Adding a crunchy side, tortilla chips provide an extra element of texture that pairs beautifully with the hand pies.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: With its sweet corn, tangy lime, and cilantro, this salad adds a refreshing twist, complementing the savory flavors of the pies.
- Fresh Fruit Skewers: Light, fruity skewers can contrast the hearty hand pies, offering a joyful splash of color and flavor that kids love.
- Chilled Horchata: This sweet, cinnamon-spiced rice drink not only refreshes but also adds a delightful cultural pairing that kids will enjoy during the celebration.
- Spooky Fruit Punch: Create a festive drink by mixing fruit juices with soda, garnished with spooky gummy candies, to keep the Halloween spirit alive at the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the taco filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking it completely, letting it cool, and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can roll out and cut your pie crust shapes (without assembling) and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours in the fridge. This way, when you’re ready to bake, simply combine the filling and crust shapes, seal them, brush with egg wash, and pop them in the oven. Following these steps ensures your hand pies will be just as delicious and golden brown while saving you precious time on busy days!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these exciting twists and substitution ideas!
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Pizza Variation: Swap taco filling for pizza sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella for a kid-favorite twist. The combination of flavors will make these hand pies irresistible!
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Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian option, use black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes as the filling. Packed with nutrients, this variation is both colorful and tasty.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for a fiery kick. This variation is sure to warm your soul on cold Halloween nights!
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Sweet Surprise: Transform them into dessert by filling with sweetened cream cheese and chocolate chips. Dust with powdered sugar for a delightful treat.
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BBQ Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken tossed in BBQ sauce. This sweet and tangy spin is sure to please!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts to make this recipe accessible for all. Now everyone can enjoy these festive treats without worry!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile.
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Mixed Filling: Experiment with layers—try double fillings like taco on one side and sweet jam on the other, creating a fun surprise for the taste buds!
Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
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Room Temperature: Allow the Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 hours. They are best enjoyed fresh!
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.
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Freezer: To freeze, wrap each hand pie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Reheat refrigerated hand pies in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat is best for Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Absolutely! Lean ground beef is the primary choice for these hand pies. However, you can easily switch it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian version, consider using refried beans or cooked lentils as a hearty and protein-rich alternative.
How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
To keep your hand pies fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their delicious flavor and texture, making them perfect for quick snacks or meals later in the week.
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, wrap each hand pie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or air fryer until warm and crispy.
What should I do if my hand pies burst while baking?
If your Ghost Taco Hand Pies burst, it could be due to overfilling them or not cutting steam holes. Always leave a small amount of space at the edges when filling and make sure to cut small slits in the top for steam to escape. This will help prevent them from separating during the baking process.
Are there any dietary considerations for Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be sure to check the ingredients in your taco seasoning and cheese. Additionally, if your guests are gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pie crusts and ensure any additional ingredients are also gluten-free. These adaptable hand pies can be enjoyed by many!
How long do I need to bake the Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Bake your hand pies at 425°F for 10-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them—different ovens may vary in heat distribution. When they reach a golden-brown color, you’ll know they’re perfectly baked!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies: A Spooktacular Halloween Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the lean ground beef until crumbled and browned, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and any optional veggies, then remove from heat.
- Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to make shapes, ensuring an even number for tops and bottoms.
- Place half of the ghost shapes on baking sheets. Spoon a generous amount of the taco filling into the center, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and cover with the remaining ghost shapes. Use a fork to seal the edges.
- Carefully cut small holes in the tops of the hand pies for steam to escape. Brush the tops with a light egg wash.
- Preheat oven to 425°F and bake the hand pies for 10-14 minutes or until golden brown and flaky.
- Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.