As I rolled out the dough, the scent of savory spices filled my kitchen, instantly transforming it into a cozy haven. That’s when I realized I was stepping into the delightful world of Ghost Taco Hand Pies. This recipe is not only a fun and spooky twist on traditional tacos, but it also brings together the best of homemade cooking—easily customizable fillings and a golden, flaky crust. Whether you're preparing for a Halloween gathering or simply looking for a quick meal that the whole family will love, these hand pies offer a comforting embrace of flavor in every bite. Plus, they're a cinch to whip up, ready in just 40 minutes! So, are you ready to join me in creating these delightful ghostly treats?
Why are Ghost Taco Hand Pies a must-try?
Creative Spin: These ghost-shaped hand pies add a fun, festive twist to the classic taco. Perfect for Halloween or any family gathering!
Customizable Fillings: Feel free to swap the meat for plant-based options or use different vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
Quick to Make: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time.
Crowd Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty bites. Serve with salsa for added flavor!
Easy Cleanup: The baked hand pies are simple to make in just one pan—less mess, more deliciousness!
By following this recipe, you'll discover why these Ghost Taco Hand Pies are sure to become a go-to family favorite!
Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients
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For the Filling
• 1 pound lean ground beef – provides a hearty, protein-packed base, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning – this will infuse your filling with that signature bold taco flavor that elevates your ghostly treats.
• ¼ cup shredded carrot (optional) – adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color, making them not just delicious but nutritious too.
• ¼ cup chopped bell pepper or baby spinach (optional) – use for extra vitamins, or switch in your favorite veggies for a personal touch. -
For the Crust
• 2 pie crusts, defrosted but unbaked – these create a perfectly flaky exterior for holding in all that yummy filling. -
For the Topping
• ⅓ cup shredded Mexican cheese – melts beautifully inside and adds creaminess, giving each bite a satisfying finish.
• 1 egg (for brushing) – this will give your hand pies a lovely golden color and a shiny finish when baked. -
For Serving
• Salsa (for dipping) – a zesty complement that brings the whole dish together and enhances the taco experience.
With these easy-to-follow ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting your own delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Step 1: Cook the Filling
In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add your choice of ground meat, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks for 5-6 minutes, until browned. Stir in the taco seasoning and any optional shredded carrot and chopped bell pepper or spinach. Once the mixture is well-combined and fragrant, remove it from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will ensure your ghost taco hand pies bake evenly and don’t stick. While the oven heats, gather your equipment, such as ghost-shaped cookie cutters, rolling pin, and a fork for sealing the pies.
Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crusts
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the defrosted pie crusts until they are about ⅛ inch thick. Using your ghost-shaped cookie cutters, carefully cut out the shapes making sure to have an equal number of tops and bottoms. Aim for about 30 total ghost shapes so you can have 15 delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies ready for baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Arrange half of the ghost shapes on your lined baking sheets. Spoon a small amount of the taco filling onto each ghost shape, leaving space around the edges for sealing. Sprinkle a little shredded Mexican cheese on top of each filled ghost, ensuring it melts perfectly during baking for that delicious gooey texture.
Step 5: Create the Faces
Take the remaining ghost shapes and use a small circular object (like the end of a piping tip) to cut out eyes and mouths. Gently place these cut-outs on top of your filled ghosts, aligning them carefully. Use a fork to press down the edges, sealing the filling inside and creating a beautiful pattern that will ensure no filling escapes during baking.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg with a splash of water or milk to make an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently brush this mixture over the surface of each ghost pie. This step adds a lovely golden color and glossy finish to your Ghost Taco Hand Pies once they're baked, making them even more tempting.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the Ghost Taco Hand Pies for 10-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the ghost shapes are golden brown and flaky. Once they’ve reached a delightful color, carefully remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool slightly before serving with salsa or guacamole for dipping.
How to Store and Freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Fridge: Store uneaten Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each hand pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen pies in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy the flaky crust and flavor just like fresh!
Room Temperature: If you have leftovers after a gathering, let them cool completely before leaving them out for a few hours. For extended storage, refrigerate.
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies
As these delightful hand pies emerge from the oven, the aromas of spices and melted cheese create a warm invitation for a fun-filled meal.
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Creamy Guacamole: The rich creaminess of guacamole perfectly balances the savory flavors of the ghost tacos, adding a refreshing contrast with every bite. Serve it alongside nice tortilla chips for added crunch!
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Zesty Salsa: A classic pairing, vibrant salsa brings a tangy pop that enhances the taste of the hand pies. Opt for a spicy variety for those who love a kick!
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Crispy Side Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, crunchy veggies, and a zesty vinaigrette adds freshness and texture to the meal, cleansing the palate beautifully between bites.
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Mexican Street Corn: This dish offers a delightful mix of sweet corn, lime, cheese, and spices, elevating your dinner’s flavor profile and adding a festive touch to your table.
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Frijoles Charros: These seasoned pinto beans add a hearty element, making your meal more filling while complementing the taco-inspired flavors of the hand pies beautifully.
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Churros for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with warm churros dusted in cinnamon sugar. Their crispy exterior and soft interior make a delicious match for a cozy treat.
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Horchata or Agua Fresca: Pair your meal with a cool glass of horchata or a refreshing agua fresca to wash it all down, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor. Additionally, you can cut out the pie crust shapes and refrigerate them in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply assemble the hand pies as noted in the recipe and brush with the egg wash before placing them in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious taste with minimal effort, delivering warm, homemade goodness straight from the oven on busy weeknights!
Helpful Tricks for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
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Fill Wisely: Don’t overfill your pies; a tablespoon of filling per ghost keeps them from spilling while baking and ensures a delightful bite.
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Seal the Edges: Use a fork to gently press down the edges of each pie tightly. This prevents the creamy cheese and seasoned meat from oozing out during baking.
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Chill Before Baking: If the dough feels warm, chill your assembled pies for 10 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape and ensures a crisp crust.
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Bake in Batches: If you're making a large batch, bake them in separate batches to ensure even cooking and perfect doneness for each Ghost Taco Hand Pie.
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Customize with Ease: Feel free to mix your filling ingredients based on dietary preferences or what’s on hand; consider beans or veggies for vegetarian options that are just as tasty!
With these tips in mind, you’re set to make the best Ghost Taco Hand Pies that will be a hit with everyone!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to add your own flair to these delicious hand pies and explore new flavor possibilities!
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Pizza Twist: Swap out the taco filling for pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese for a fun pizza-inspired treat. Kids will love this cheesy variation!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with black beans and corn for a hearty plant-based filling that’s full of flavor and nutrients.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the meat mixture for an extra layer of heat that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Herbed Upgrade: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling for a burst of freshness that puts a gourmet twist on your hand pies. It’s a simple addition that elevates every bite!
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Cheesy Explosion: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique melt and flavor profile. The different cheeses can complement various fillings beautifully!
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Crunch Factor: Add crushed tortilla chips to the filling mixture for an unexpected crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese and tender beef.
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Savory Sweet: Incorporate a small amount of sweet corn or diced apples into the mixture for a sweet-savory blend that adds excitement and a touch of sweetness to your hand pies.
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Dough Variations: Try using puff pastry instead of traditional pie crust for an ultra-flaky texture that takes these hand pies to another level of indulgence.
Get creative and don’t hesitate to mix and match these variations! With options that cater to every taste preference, these Ghost Taco Hand Pies are sure to impress your guests or your family with every delicious bite.
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of meat can I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can choose between lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken depending on your preference. If you're opting for lighter fare, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully well and still packs a flavorful punch with the taco seasoning.
How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
For storage, simply place any uneaten Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re cooled completely before sealing them tightly to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each hand pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them inside a freezer-safe bag. They can hold their deliciousness for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy!
What if my pie crust is too warm to cut?
If your crust is too warm or sticky, simply pop it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to firm it up. This will make it much easier to cut out shapes with your cookie cutter and ensure they hold their form during baking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based ground meat alternatives or skip the cheese for a dairy-free version. Always check the labels on pre-made pie crusts to ensure they meet specific dietary needs.
Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the hand pies a few hours in advance. Just cover them with plastic wrap and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake. This is a great way to save time when you’re preparing for a party or gathering!
Delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pies for a Spook-tacular Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium skillet, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat, breaking it apart until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and optional fillings, then remove from heat.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie crusts on a floured surface to ⅛ inch thick, then cut out 30 ghost shapes.
- Place half the shapes on the baking sheets and fill each with taco filling, topped with cheese.
- Cut out faces from the remaining shapes and place them on top of filled shapes, sealing edges with a fork.
- Whisk the egg with a splash of water, then brush over the tops of the hand pies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-14 minutes, until golden brown.
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