As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon an extraordinary idea for Halloween treats that’d surprise and delight everyone at the table: Ghost Taco Hand Pies! These whimsical pastries not only capture the spirit of the spooky season but also incorporate the beloved flavors of classic tacos, making them a hit among both kids and adults alike. Quick to whip up and fun to assemble, these hand pies transform any Halloween gathering into a hearty feast—perfect for family dinners or festive parties. Plus, they’re easily customizable; fill them with your favorite taco ingredients or switch them up with pizza sauce for a completely different take. Curious to see how these spooky sensations come to life in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Unique Twist: These Ghost Taco Hand Pies bring your favorite taco flavors into a fun Halloween shape, making mealtime super exciting for the entire family.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love getting involved in the kitchen, shaping the pies and picking their own fillings. A perfect way to engage them in cooking!
Quick & Easy: This recipe is designed for busy schedules; you can have these tasty treats ready in under 30 minutes!
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment! You can swap taco fillings for pizza toppings, ensuring every bite brings something delightful. Check out our Crescent Roll Taco recipe for another fun take!
Shareable Treat: Ideal for parties, these hand pies are a great way to spark conversation and gather everyone around. Pair them with salsa or guacamole for even more flavor!
Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Lean Ground Beef (or Ground Chicken/Turkey) – Provides protein and flavor; substitute with legumes for a vegetarian option.
• Taco Seasoning – Adds a blend of spices for authentic taco taste; consider homemade seasoning to control salt and spices.
• Shredded Carrot – Optional, adds moisture and sweetness; substitute with zucchini or other finely chopped veggies.
• Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Optional for added nutrition and flavor; use any preferred vegetable.
For the Crust
• Pie Crusts – Forms the pastry of the hand pies; refrigerated store-bought crust is convenient, while homemade can enhance flavor.
For Assembly
• Shredded Mexican Cheese – Adds creaminess; substitute with cheddar or omit for a dairy-free version.
• Egg – Used as an egg wash for glossy finishes; substitute with milk or a vegan alternative for brushing.
For Dipping
• Salsa/Guacamole – Enhances flavor; use your favorite store-bought or homemade varieties for a perfect companion to your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
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 your choice of ground meat) for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, adding optional shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers for extra flavor. This mixture will be the savory heart of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
Step 2: Roll and Cut Pie Crust
Lightly flour your countertop to prevent sticking, then roll out your refrigerated pie crusts until they’re about 1/8 inch thick. Using ghost-shaped cookie cutters, cut out as many shapes as possible from the dough. Gather the leftover dough, reform it into a ball, and roll it out again to make more ghost shapes, ensuring you have equal halves for the top and bottom of each hand pie.
Step 3: Fill Pies
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lay out half of your ghost cutouts. Spoon a tablespoon of your taco filling onto each ghost shape, being careful not to overfill. Sprinkle a little shredded Mexican cheese on top of the filling for added creaminess. These will be the delightful surprises hidden inside your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
Step 4: Seal Pies
Carefully place the remaining ghost shapes over each filled pie, gently pressing the edges down to seal. For a spooky touch, use a small knife to cut out shapes for eyes or mouths in the top crusts. Make sure to seal the edges firmly with a fork to prevent any leaks during baking, ensuring each bite is flavorful and intact.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare a small bowl with an egg whisked until frothy. Brush the tops of the filled hand pies with the egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish. Bake the Ghost Taco Hand Pies for 10-14 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, allow the Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm with your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping. Gather your friends and family around to enjoy this fun and festive treat, making your Halloween celebration extra special!
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy Halloween festivities! You can prepare the taco filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the ground meat with the seasoning and veggies, then let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. Furthermore, you can roll out and shape the pie crusts, assembling the filled pies, and freeze them for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain their delicious quality, ensure the filling is completely cooled before sealing, and place parchment paper between layers if stacking. When it’s time to serve, bake from frozen at 425°F for an extra 2-4 minutes, and enjoy fresh, golden hand pies in no time!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Ghost Taco Hand Pies! Here are some delicious twists to make this festive treat your own.
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Dairy-Free: Omit cheese entirely or use a dairy-free alternative to keep it creamy and enjoyable without the dairy.
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the ground meat with black beans or lentils, packed with protein and flavor while being cruelty-free. Your whole family will savor these delightful bite-sized treats!
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Pizza Twist: Instead of taco fillings, swap in pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese, and maybe even some pepperoni to create ghostly pizza hand pies—a hit for the pizza lovers in your home!
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Seasonal Vegetables: Add seasonal favorites like butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a cozy, autumnal touch. These variations keep it fun and seasonal while allowing for a flavor-packed filling.
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Extra Crunch: Mix in some crushed tortilla chips or corn kernels to the filling for added texture and a satisfying crunch! The variation in texture will make your hand pies stand out at any gathering.
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Spicy Kick: Enhance the flavor with diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your crowd’s spice tolerance—it adds a delightful zing!
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Superfood Boost: Incorporate finely chopped kale or spinach into the filling to amp up the nutrition and provide vibrant color. A great way to sneak in some greens for those picky eaters!
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are an excellent opportunity to customize and make them truly special. If you’re interested in other creative dishes, why not explore our Chicken Street Tacos or even give a try to a delicious Crescent Roll Taco for another family favorite?
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Bring a festive touch to your meal and create a delightful spread that everyone will enjoy!
- Crispy Salad: A crunchy mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm hand pies.
- Spicy Salsa: Pair with a zesty salsa that adds a lively kick, enhancing the savory flavors of the Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
- Creamy Guacamole: Rich and smooth guacamole balances the crispy exterior and adds a wonderful creaminess with every bite.
- Elote Corn Salad: This colorful salad, featuring grilled corn, jalapeños, and cotija cheese, brings a fun and vibrant flair to your table.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy seasoned rice makes a comforting side that complements the taco flavors beautifully while grounding the meal.
- Margaritas: A refreshing margarita with hints of lime and salt is a perfect pairing for the celebration—cheers to Halloween!
- Churros: To satisfy your sweet tooth, finish off with warm churros dusted with sugar; they provide a delightful end to your spooky feast.
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
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Crust Care: Avoid stretching the pie crust too much when sealing the edges. Overstretching can cause them to burst open during baking.
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Filling Flexibility: Feel free to play with your fillings. These Ghost Taco Hand Pies can also be transformed into pizza pockets with different sauces and cheeses.
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Extra Filling Advantage: Make a bit more filling than you need. Use leftovers in wraps or salad bowls for a quick, hearty meal later.
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Vegetable Ventures: Boost your nutrition by incorporating a variety of vegetables or even consider a vegetarian filling option for these delightful hand pies.
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Golden Finish: For an appealing look, brush the tops with egg wash before baking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown glaze, perfect for Halloween festivities.
How to Store and Freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Allow the hand pies to cool completely before storing at room temperature for up to 2 days. Place them in a covered container to keep them fresh.
Fridge: Store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hand pies individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen hand pies, bake them from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Enjoy the rich flavors of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies once again!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of meat should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef, ground chicken, or turkey for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, beans or legumes like black beans or lentils can substitute perfectly!
How long can I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled down before storing to maintain their deliciousness!
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Certainly! To freeze your hand pies, first, let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months!
What should I do if my pie crust keeps breaking?
Very! If your pie crust is breaking, it may either be too cold or over-rolled. To fix this, try letting the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out. Also, be gentle when transferring the shapes; if they crack, you can patch them with a little extra dough.
Can I make these Ghost Taco Hand Pies gluten-free?
Indeed! You can use a gluten-free pie crust for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Many brands offer excellent alternatives that match standard pie crusts in flavor and texture, so you can still enjoy the festive fun without the gluten!
How can I add more veggies to the filling?
I often enhance my filling by incorporating a variety of finely chopped vegetables, such as zucchini, kale, or corn. You can mix these in our taco mix in step 1. Start by sautéing them in oil for a few minutes, allowing them to soften before adding the meat, or mix them in with the cooked meat for an extra burst of flavor! This not only boosts the nutrition but makes for a tastier hand pie too.
Ghost Taco Hand Pies - Fun Halloween Treats to Savor Together
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, adding optional shredded carrots and chopped bell peppers.
- Lightly flour your countertop and roll out the pie crusts until about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out ghost shapes using cookie cutters.
- Spoon a tablespoon of taco filling onto half of your ghost cutouts and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Place the remaining ghost shapes over the filled pies and seal the edges with a fork. Cut out shapes in the top crust for spooky eyes or mouths.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F, brush the tops with egg wash, and bake for 10-14 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm with salsa or guacamole.
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