As the crisp autumn air settles in, the scent of spices and warm comfort food calls to us. Enter my Ghost Taco Hand Pies—a delightful fusion of festive fun and delicious practicality! These little savory treasures, with their flaky crust and customizable fillings, whip up in just 40 minutes, making them a perfect quick-fix meal for busy nights or a fun family gathering. Whether you opt for traditional ground beef or a veggie twist, these hand pies promise to bring joy to both kids and grown-ups alike. Plus, they’re fantastic for meal prep, ensuring that homemade goodness is always just a bake away. Curious about how to make your own spooky treats? Let’s dive in! Why Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies So Fun? Customizable fillings let you get creative! Choose from classic ground beef or go totally vegetarian with black beans and corn for a delightful twist. Quick to Prepare in just 40 minutes, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Festive Presentation with their ghostly shapes not only adds fun to meal times but also makes them a hit at parties. Crowd-Pleasing appeal ensures everyone will enjoy these delicious bites—pair them with zesty salsa or creamy guacamole for an even better experience. Enjoy them alongside other favorites like Taco Stuffed Avocados or Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa for a complete taco night! Ghost Taco Hand Pies Ingredients For the Filling Ground Beef – Offers a hearty, protein-rich filling; feel free to swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter choice. Taco Seasoning – Infuses the filling with bold taco flavor, making these Ghost Taco Hand Pies a savory delight. Shredded Carrot (optional) – Adds sweetness and a pop of color, making your filling even more inviting. Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (optional) – Boosts nutrition while providing a fresh crunch to each bite. For the Crust Pie Crusts – Forms the flaky exterior; ensure you use defrosted, unbaked crusts to achieve the best results. For the Inside Shredded Mexican Cheese – Melts beautifully, granting your hand pies a rich creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the savory filling. Egg (for brushing) – Creates a shiny, golden finish, enhancing the pie’s visual appeal right out of the oven. For Serving Salsa – A zesty dip to complement these tasty Ghost Taco Hand Pies, adding an extra layer of flavor to your experience. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies Step 1: Cook the Filling In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat before adding 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning along with optional shredded carrots or chopped vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through, then set aside to cool slightly. Step 2: Preheat Oven While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures a non-stick surface for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies and helps achieve a perfect golden finish. Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a seamless assembly process. Step 3: Prepare Pie Crusts Roll out 2 packages of pie crusts on a lightly floured surface until they’re about ⅛ inch thick to ensure a flaky texture. Use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out 30 ghost shapes. Organize them into pairs and aim for uniformity in size for consistent baking of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Step 4: Assemble Hand Pies On your prepared baking sheets, lay half of the ghost-shaped crusts. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cooled taco filling onto the center of each base. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded Mexican cheese on top of the filling before covering with the remaining ghost cut-outs. Seal the edges with a fork to ensure no filling leaks during baking. Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg with a splash of water for the egg wash. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of each assembled ghost pie. This step not only adds a glossy finish but also enhances the overall appearance of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies, making them extra inviting. Step 6: Bake Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-14 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time, as oven temperatures can vary. The tempting aroma of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies will fill your kitchen—a delightful indicator that they are almost ready! Step 7: Cool Slightly Before Serving Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This helps to ensure the filling sets slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve these delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pies warm with a side of salsa or guacamole for the perfect festive touch! Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations Feel free to explore exciting twists and spins to make these hand pies uniquely yours! Pizza Twist: Swap the taco filling with pizza sauce and mozzarella for an Italian-inspired treat that’s cheesy and rich. Imagine biting into a flaky crust filled with pepperoni and melted cheese—pure bliss! Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with black beans and corn for a hearty vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying. This combo not only adds color but also a delightful sweetness that balances perfectly with spices. Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra burst of heat. A little spice can elevate the flavor profile and make these hand pies exciting for those who love a spicy bite. Herbed Upgrade: Enhance your filling with fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano for a burst of freshness. A pinch of herbaceous notes transforms each bite into a garden of flavor that feels vibrant and alive. Sweet Addition: Mix in sweet corn or diced apples for a sweet-savory flavor explosion. This unexpected twist adds a delightful contrast that’s perfect for adventurous eaters. Crunchy Topping: Before baking, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top of the filling for an added crunch. It creates a delightful texture contrast that complements the flaky crust beautifully. Cheesy Explosion: Use a mix of cheeses like pepper jack for a creamy, melty filling. The heat from the pepper jack will surprise and delight your taste buds, making every bite feel indulgent. Global Flavors: Experiment with fillings inspired by different cuisines, like curry spiced potatoes or barbecue pulled chicken. Think outside the taco for a world of flavor that fits these ghostly forms! With so many options, these Ghost Taco Hand Pies can easily adapt to your family’s tastes. Serve with zesty salsa or creamy guacamole for dipping, and turn them into an unforgettable meal! Try pairing them with Fried Chicken Tacos or Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Crema for more delicious variety on your table. Make Ahead Options These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, taco seasoning, and any veggies) up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can assemble the hand pies and chill them for up to 24 hours before baking. This chilling step ensures they maintain their shape and crispness. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush with egg wash and bake directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra minute or two to your baking time if needed. Enjoy homemade goodness without the last-minute rush! Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies Chill Before Baking: Chill your assembled Ghost Taco Hand Pies for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape and ensures a flaky crust. Don’t Overfill: Use just about 1 tablespoon of filling per pie. Overfilling can lead to spills, making a mess during baking. Seal Tight: A fork is your best friend for sealing edges. Ensure they’re pressed firmly together to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking. Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with diverse fillings, but make sure they are moisture-controlled. Too much liquid can lead to soggy hand pies. Egg Wash Importance: Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives your Ghost Taco Hand Pies a beautiful golden finish that makes them irresistibly inviting. Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies Room Temperature: Allow baked Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool completely before storing. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped hand pies. They can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat chilled hand pies in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy them fresh, as they taste best when warmed! What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies? Enhance your spooky feast with these delightful pairings that will elevate your meal and tantalize your taste buds. Creamy Guacamole: A rich, buttery dip that complements the savory filling beautifully and adds a fresh twist. Zesty Salsa: The acidity of salsa cuts through the richness of the hand pies, making each bite refreshing and balanced. Mexican Street Corn: Creamy and slightly charred, this side adds a hit of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory tacos. Colorful Salad: A crunchy salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and lime dressing brings brightness to your plate and balances flavors. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve these alongside your Ghost Taco Hand Pies for added texture; they’re perfect for scooping up extra salsa! Churros for Dessert: End the meal with warm, sugary churros—a sweet contrast that keeps the festive theme alive and satisfies your sweet tooth. Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs What kind of ground meat can I use for the filling? Absolutely! For the filling of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies, ground beef is a classic choice due to its rich flavor. However, feel free to substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to go completely vegetarian, black beans or lentils can provide a hearty alternative while still packing a punch of flavor! How should 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. It’s best to let them cool completely before storing to avoid any sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to regain that lovely crispiness! Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies? Certainly! If you want to prepare your Ghost Taco Hand Pies in advance, freezing them is a fantastic option. After assembling but before baking, individually wrap each pie in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then brush with egg wash and bake as usual. What should I do if my hand pies leak during baking? If you find that your Ghost Taco Hand Pies are leaking, it’s often due to overfilling. Make sure to use no more than 1 tablespoon of filling per pie to avoid spills. Additionally, ensure that you seal the edges well with a fork to prevent leaks. If they do leak, don’t worry too much—it’ll still taste delicious! Just keep an eye on them while baking for any needed adjustments. Are there any allergen considerations with this recipe? Yes, absolutely! When making Ghost Taco Hand Pies, consider any allergies your guests might have. The pie crust might contain gluten and other allergens, so opt for gluten-free crust if needed. You can also ensure that the taco seasoning is free from additives like MSG or gluten. For dairy allergies, use a dairy-free cheese alternative instead. Can I add other veggies to the filling? Of course! The beauty of these Ghost Taco Hand Pies lies in their customizable nature. You can mix in any chopped vegetables you like, such as diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for added sweetness. Just be sure to make any additions in moderation to maintain the right consistency, preventing too much moisture in the filling. Ghost Taco Hand Pies: Fun, Flaky Bites for Spooky Nights Enjoy these Ghost Taco Hand Pies, a fun fusion of spooky shapes and delicious fillings, perfect for snacks or festive gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 10 pocketsCourse: SnacksCuisine: MexicanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning1 cup Shredded Carrot Optional for sweetness and color.1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach Optional for nutrition and crunch.For the Crust2 packages Pie Crusts Use defrosted, unbaked crusts.For the Inside1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese Melts beautifully.1 large Egg For brushing.For Serving1 cup Salsa For dipping. Equipment skilletovenBaking Sheetsparchment paperCookie CutterPastry Brush Method InstructionsIn a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning and optional vegetables. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.Roll out the pie crusts until about ⅛ inch thick, then cut out 30 ghost shapes using a cookie cutter. Organize them into pairs for even baking.On prepared baking sheets, lay half of the ghost-shaped crusts. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling on each, sprinkle cheese, then cover with remaining crusts. Seal edges with a fork.Whisk together the egg with a splash of water for the egg wash and brush the tops of the assembled pies.Bake for 10-14 minutes or until golden brown and flaky. Monitor closely towards end of cooking time.Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving warm with salsa or guacamole. Nutrition Serving: 1pocketCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg NotesExpert tips include chilling the pies before baking, not overfilling, sealing edges tightly, customizing fillings carefully, and using egg wash for a golden finish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
