Name: Ghost Taco Hand Pies – Spooky, Savory Fun for Halloween!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey/Chicken); 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning; 1 cup Shredded Carrot (optional); 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper (or Baby Spinach); 2 sheets Pie Crusts (store-bought or puff pastry); 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese (or dairy-free cheese); 1 large Egg (for glaze); 1 cup Salsa (for dipping)

As I was preparing for Halloween, I stumbled upon a delightful way to enliven our festive gatherings: Ghost Taco Hand Pies! These adorable little snacks are not only a feast for the eyes with their spooky shapes but are also incredibly simple to whip up, making them a perfect choice for both kids and adults. Stuffed with savory goodness and encased in a flaky crust, they promise to be the star of any Halloween party. Plus, they’re versatile enough to let you customize the filling to your heart’s content, whether you prefer beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian twist. Want to know the secret to achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior that keeps the mouthwatering filling inside? Let’s dive into this charming and kid-friendly recipe that’s bound to please everyone at the table!

Why are Ghost Taco Hand Pies a must-try?

Festive Fun: The ghost shapes are perfect for Halloween, turning a simple snack into a playful delight that everyone will enjoy.

Quick to Prepare: You’ll be amazed at how fast these come together, making them a fantastic last-minute treat for unexpected guests.

Savory Satisfaction: Each bite is bursting with flavor from the rich filling and gooey cheese, ensuring these hand pies will be a favorite at your gathering.

Customizable Goodness: Whether you choose traditional beef, turkey, or a vegetarian option, the filling possibilities are endless! If you’re interested in more quick recipes, check out our delicious High Protein Taco or mouthwatering Birria Tacos Savory.

Kid-Approved: Kids will love their spooky appearance and tasty flavor, making these hand pies a hit for family dinners or Halloween parties.

Perfect for Dipping: Pair with your favorite salsa or guacamole for an extra layer of flavor, adding to the fun and appeal of this dish.

Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients

• To create these delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling

Lean Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey/Chicken) – A flavorful protein base; substitute with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Taco Seasoning – Infuses the filling with that classic character; consider homemade seasoning to control ingredients.
Shredded Carrot – Adds a touch of sweetness and nutrition; optional but can be replaced with finely chopped zucchini or bell peppers.
Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Boosts flavor and nutrition; these are great optional additions for extra veggies.

For the Pastry

Pie Crusts – The delightful shell for your filling; easy to use store-bought refrigerated crust, or try puff pastry for a flakier texture.
Shredded Mexican Cheese – Melts beautifully to enrich the flavor; dairy-free cheese works for a vegan alternative.
Egg – Used for the golden glaze on top; you can substitute with milk or a dairy-free alternative for brushing.

For Serving

Salsa – Perfect for dipping and enhancing flavors; pick your favorite kind or whip up a quick homemade version.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with these spooky and savory Ghost Taco Hand Pies, tailored for a delightful Halloween treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add lean ground beef (or your choice of turkey or chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. This should take about 5-6 minutes. Sprinkle in taco seasoning along with optional veggies like shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers and cook for another couple of minutes until everything is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Roll Out Dough
On a lightly floured surface, unroll your pie crusts. Using ghost-shaped cookie cutters, carefully cut out shapes, ensuring you have equal numbers for the tops and bottoms. Aim for about 12-16 ghost cutouts, depending on the size. As you cut, make sure the edges are smooth and use scraps to create additional shapes if needed.

Step 3: Assemble Pies
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper, then place half of the ghost cutouts on the sheets. Spoon the taco filling onto each ghost shape, taking care not to overfill, allowing room for sealing. Sprinkle some shredded Mexican cheese over the filling, which will melt deliciously during baking.

Step 4: Top and Seal
On the remaining ghost-shaped cutouts, use a small cookie cutter or knife to cut out eyes and mouths, creating a spooky look. Carefully place them on top of the filled ghost cutouts. Press the edges together tightly and use a fork to seal them, ensuring no filling leaks out while they bake.

Step 5: Bake
Brush the tops of the assembled Ghost Taco Hand Pies with beaten egg (or a dairy-free alternative) to achieve a golden-brown finish. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-14 minutes, or until they are puffed and beautifully golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking since the perfect pies should have a crisp exterior.

Step 6: Serve
Once the Ghost Taco Hand Pies are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Serve warm, alongside your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping. The delightful combination of flavors makes these spooky treats irresistible and perfect for any Halloween gathering!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful hand pies to suit your taste buds!

Pizza Twist: Swap in pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese with your favorite toppings for a fun pizza hand pie variation. Kids love the cheesy, familiar flavors!
Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based ground meat or a mix of beans and lentils for a hearty vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Sweet Surprise: Consider making dessert hand pies by filling with chocolate hazelnut spread or your favorite fruit preserves, perfect for a spooky sweet treat after dinner.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the meat mixture for an extra kick of heat, delighting those who enjoy a spicy twist on their hand pies.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano into your filling for a burst of freshness, enhancing the savory flavor of your hand pies.
Zesty Flavor: Mix in a bit of lime juice and zest to the filling for a refreshing, citrusy twist that brightens up the dish.
Cheesy Broccoli: Add some finely chopped steamed broccoli mixed with cheese to make these hand pies a sneaky way to include veggies in your kiddos’ diet.
Taco Bowl Filling: Transform the filling into a taco bowl by substituting the crust with tortilla chips in a baking dish, topping them with cheese, and baking until bubbly and golden.

These variations allow you to tailor your Ghost Taco Hand Pies to your family’s preferences and make each batch a unique experience! If you’re eager for more inspiration, try your hand at the Chocolate Oat Cookies for a sweet dessert option!

Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Let the ghost taco hand pies cool completely before storing them at room temperature. They can stay fresh for up to 4 hours, but they are best enjoyed warm!
Fridge: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their flaky texture and savory goodness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ghost taco hand pies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the hand pies in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispness. Enjoy this tasty Halloween treat warm!

Make Ahead Options

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to take the stress out of Halloween festivities! You can prepare the filling—ground beef, spices, and optional veggies—up to 3 days ahead. Simply refrigerate the cooled mixture in an airtight container. Additionally, cut out the pie crust shapes and store them layered with parchment paper in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the crusts, top them, and bake as directed. This ensures a crispy exterior and keeps the filling just as delicious, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights or surprise guests!

Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Perfect Filling: Avoid overfilling your Ghost Taco Hand Pies; this prevents them from sealing correctly and leaking during baking.
Use the Right Crust: For a flakier texture, consider using puff pastry instead of standard pie crusts. It adds a delightful crunch!
Creative Eyes and Mouths: Use small cookie cutters to create eyes and mouths on the top ghost cutouts. This prevents steam from building up and ensures even baking.
Customizable Flavor: Feel free to experiment with the filling! Try swapping the ground meat for beans or lentils for a fun vegetarian twist on these hand pies.
Serving Tip: Serve your Ghost Taco Hand Pies warm with fresh salsa or guacamole to enhance their savory flavors and create a fun dining experience.

What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Elevate your Halloween feast with enticing side dishes that perfectly complement these whimsical hand pies.

Fresh Salsa: Enhance the hand pies’ flavor with zesty salsa for a delightful contrast; choose your favorite store-bought or homemade variation.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a luscious touch and balances the savory filling, making every bite even more satisfying.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy chips for a fun crunch; they make a festive base for scooping up salsa and guacamole.
Chili Con Queso: This gooey cheese dip is another great way to add warmth; the richness pairs beautifully with the savory hand pies.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Bright and fresh flavors shine in this salad; the sweetness of corn and zest of lime uplift the overall meal experience.
Spicy Nachos: Load nachos with jalapeños, cheese, and beans for a lively side, making your Halloween spread feel more celebratory.
Pumpkin Spice Punch: Add a festive drink to the mix; a slightly spiced punch offers a warm, seasonal hug to the gathering.
Apple Cider Donuts: For dessert, serve these warm and spiced treats; their sweetness will round off the meal perfectly.

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! While lean ground beef is the primary choice, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, swap in plant-based ground meat or even beans and lentils for a filling that satisfies all diets.

How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
To store your hand pies, let them cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them beyond that, freeze them in a single layer before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will last up to 2 months!

What’s the best way to reheat Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
The best method for reheating is to place them in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their crispy texture and delicious warmth. Microwave reheating can make them soggy, so stick with the oven for that delightful crunch!

Can I customize the filling for dietary preferences?
Very much so! The beauty of these Ghost Taco Hand Pies is in their versatility. Besides the traditional meat fillings, feel free to add in veggies like chopped bell peppers, baby spinach, or even use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it vegan. Just be mindful of overfilling to ensure they seal properly during baking.

How can I avoid leakage when sealing the pies?
To prevent leaking, don’t overfill your hand pies. Ensure you leave enough space at the edges for sealing. After placing the top ghost shape, press the edges firmly together and use a fork to crimp the edges—this creates a tight seal to keep all that yummy filling inside while they bake.

How do I know when the hand pies are done baking?
You will know the hand pies are done when they’re puffed up and golden brown, which usually takes about 10-14 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; a perfectly cooked pie should have a flaky, crispy exterior with a warm filling that bursts with flavor!