Name: Ghost Taco Hand Pies: Cute & Savory Halloween Delights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef or Ground Turkey/Chicken (Plant-based meat alternatives can be used.); 1 packet Taco Seasoning (Feel free to explore homemade options.); 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (Shredded carrots can also be used.); 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese (Any cheese blend works well.); 2 sheets Refrigerated Pie Crusts (Homemade options can elevate the hand pies.); 1 large Egg (Used for the egg wash.); 1 cup Salsa (Consider providing guacamole as well.)

As I was preparing for Halloween, I stumbled upon an idea that transformed my spooky celebrations: Ghost Taco Hand Pies! These delightful treats are a whimsical mix of flaky crusts shaped like friendly apparitions, hiding a savory treasure of seasoned beef, vibrant veggies, and gooey cheese inside. The best part? They are quick and easy to whip up, making them perfect for a fun family activity and a hit with kids at any gathering. Plus, with endless filling variations—you could even go wild with pizza ingredients—these hand pies are perfect for serving up in any festive setting. So, are you ready to bring some magic to your Halloween menu and impress your guests? Let’s dive into making these adorable Ghost Taco Hand Pies together!

Why Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies a Must-Try?

Versatile Fillings: Customize the filling with your favorite ingredients! You can switch up the savory ground beef with pizza sauce and cheese for a unique twist.

Quick to Make: These hand pies come together in no time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the spooky festivities rather than slaving in the kitchen.

Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved! They’ll love helping to cut, fill, and decorate these ghostly treats.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With their adorable shape and delicious flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at any Halloween gathering.

Simple Yet Delicious: The flaky crust combined with the warm, seasoned filling strikes the perfect balance, reminiscent of comforting comfort food that everyone loves. Don’t miss out on complementing your spooky feast with Bacon Ranch Tacos for more flavor options!

Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients

• Get ready to create these spooky delights!

For the Filling
Lean Ground Beef or Ground Turkey/Chicken – Provides the main protein for a savory filling; plant-based meat alternatives can ensure a vegetarian option.
Taco Seasoning – Adds a burst of rich flavor to the meat; feel free to explore homemade taco seasoning for enhanced taste.
Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Adds nutrition and colorful appeal to the filling; shredded carrots can be used for a hint of sweetness.
Shredded Mexican Cheese – Contributes a creamy texture and elevates the flavor; any cheese blend works well in this filling!
For the Crust
Refrigerated Pie Crusts – Offers a quick and easy base for the hand pies; homemade options can make them even more special when time allows.
Large Egg – Used for brushing over the hand pies to create a golden sheen during baking; mix with milk or water for a smooth finish.
For Serving
Salsa – A zesty component that pairs perfectly as a dipping sauce; consider providing guacamole for an extra flavor kick.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of lean ground beef (or turkey) for about 5-6 minutes until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Add in your favorite taco seasoning and a choice of chopped bell peppers or baby spinach. Mix well and let the filling cool slightly before setting it aside to avoid a soggy crust when making your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Step 2: Roll and Cut Crusts
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled refrigerated pie crusts until they are about 1/8 inch thick. Using ghost-shaped cookie cutters, cut out an equal number of top and bottom ghost pieces for your hand pies, aiming for about 10–12 shapes depending on your crust size. This will create the whimsical look of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies while ensuring even baking.

Step 3: Fill Ghosts
Place half of the ghost-shaped crusts on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Spoon the cooled taco filling onto the center of each ghost cut-out, leaving about a half-inch border. Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese on top of the filling to enhance the flavor and texture. Be careful not to overstuff, so your Ghost Taco Hand Pies seal well and don’t burst during baking.

Step 4: Top and Seal
Carefully place the remaining ghost-shaped crusts over the filled ones, aligning them well. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut out small eyes and a mouth on each ghost for an adorable effect. Press the edges together firmly, then use a fork to crimp and seal them tightly, ensuring no filling leaks out as the Ghost Taco Hand Pies bake.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk a large egg with a splash of milk or water for a smooth egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the tops of each ghost-shaped pie with the egg wash; this will give them a lovely golden sheen as they bake. Make sure to cover the crust edges as well, for an evenly baked appearance on your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare your hand pies. Once ready, pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake, looking for a golden brown color; this signals that your Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfectly crispy and ready to be devoured.

Step 7: Serve
Once baked, let the Ghost Taco Hand Pies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Serve them warm alongside salsa or guacamole for a fun dipping experience. The combination of the flaky crust with the savory filling will surely delight guests of all ages during your Halloween gathering!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies: Make It Your Own!

Feel free to get creative and tailor these delightful hand pies to your taste buds and dietary needs!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat for a flavorful vegetarian filling. A mix of spices will keep the savory essence intact!
Pizza Twist: Swap the taco seasoning for pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese, creating a delightful pizza-inspired hand pie that kids will adore.
Saucy Surprise: Add a spoonful of your favorite sauce, like barbecue or buffalo, over the filling before sealing for an unexpected flavor kick!
Bulk Up on Veggies: Incorporate shredded zucchini, mushrooms, or corn into the filling for extra nutrition and texture, adding a colorful crunch every bite.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix different types of cheeses like pepper jack or feta into the filling for a fun flavor profile that surprises guests!
Sweet Heat: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick, balancing the savory flavors with some heat for the adults.
Fun Shapes: Beyond ghosts, feel free to use other cookie cutter shapes for different occasions, like stars for New Year’s or hearts for Valentine’s Day.

If you’re looking for more flavorful inspiration, check out these Bacon Ranch Tacos for a full-belly treat, or indulge in the sweetness of Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos for those cozy dessert nights! Let your imagination run wild in the kitchen, and enjoy every delicious moment!

Helpful Tricks for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

• Chill Your Dough: Keeping refrigerated pie crusts cold until ready to use prevents them from becoming tough; a cold crust ensures flaky, delicate hand pies.

• Steam Holes: Don’t forget to cut holes for steam on top of your ghosts! This helps prevent them from getting soggy and ensures a crispy exterior on your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

• Fill with Care: Avoid overstuffing your hand pies. A well-filled pie ensures that the filling stays inside during baking and you get that delightful pop of flavor with every bite.

• Golden Finish: Use the egg wash generously but carefully, coating all edges for a golden sheen and a beautiful presentation on your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

• Adjust Bake Time: Oven temperatures can vary; start checking at around 10 minutes to prevent overbaking, aiming for a perfectly crisp, golden brown finish.

What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Delight in a Halloween feast that’s as enchanting as it is delicious, creating a memorable meal experience.

Crispy Kale Chips: Offers a satisfying crunch, the perfect counterpoint to the warm, flaky hand pies while adding a nutritious element.
Roasted Corn Salsa: This colorful salsa not only provides a zesty kick but also fresh flavors that elevate the savory filling of the hand pies.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this dip perfectly complements the zest of the hand pies, making every bite a tantalizing experience.
Spicy Queso Dip: A warm, cheesy dip that pairs beautifully with the hand pies, adding a layer of flavor that is irresistible to cheese lovers.
Apple Cider Mocktails: Refreshing and festive, these drinks bring a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the hand pies.
Pumpkin Spice Brownies: For a seasonal dessert, these fudgy treats add a cozy touch to your Halloween spread, perfectly sweetening the spooky celebration.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and fluffy, this rice dish adds texture and a hint of fresh flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the ghostly hand pies.
Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with citrus dressing offers a contrast that complements the richness of the hand pies while cleansing the palate.
Chili Lime Watermelon Bites: Sweet and tangy, these watermelon bites bring a delightful freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: This warm drink wraps everyone in cozy vibes and complements the festive spirit, making it a fun pairing for your spooky treats.

How to Store and Freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Fridge: Place cooled Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hand pies individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through, ensuring that the flaky crust remains delightful.

Thawing: If thawing, let the Ghost Taco Hand Pies sit in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for an hour before reheating to maintain their texture.

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; simply cook and cool the filling before refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can roll out and cut the pie crusts the day before, storing the ghost shapes in the fridge separated by parchment paper to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the crusts, seal, and bake them at 425°F (220°C) for 10-14 minutes until golden. This preparation method ensures that your Ghost Taco Hand Pies are just as delicious on the day of your Halloween festivities, saving you precious time for enjoying the spooky celebrations!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What kind of meat can I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef, ground turkey, or even ground chicken. If you’re seeking a meat-free option, plant-based meat alternatives work beautifully and are a fantastic substitution for vegans.

How do I store the Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
To keep your hand pies deliciously fresh, place the cooled Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you have a quick and tasty snack ready to go!

Can I freeze the Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Very! If you want to store them for a longer period, freeze the hand pies individually on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

What should I do if the filling leaks out while baking?
The most common reason for filling leakage is overstuffing your hand pies. To prevent this, fill them sufficiently but not excessively, and ensure that you seal the edges firmly using a fork. Creating small steam holes will also allow air to escape without compromising the integrity of your filling.

Is there a way to make these hand pies healthier?
Absolutely! You can lighten them up by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and incorporating more vegetables, like zucchini or shredded carrots, into the filling. If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free pie crusts, and serve with fresh salsa instead of sour cream for a lighter dip option.

How do I know when the Ghost Taco Hand Pies are done baking?
Keep an eye on them while baking! They should be a beautiful golden brown when ready, typically around 10-14 minutes at 425°F (220°C). If you notice they’re browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning. Enjoy your spooky creations!