Name: Delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies for a Spooky Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef or Ground Turkey/Chicken (or plant-based meat for a vegetarian option); 1 packet Taco Seasoning (homemade for lower sodium content optional); 1 cup Shredded Carrot (optional, can be replaced with diced zucchini or omitted); 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (optional); 2 crusts Pie Crusts (defrosted but unbaked, store-bought or homemade); 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese (dairy-free alternative for vegan version optional); 1 large Egg (for brushing, use non-dairy milk for vegan option); 1 cup Salsa (for dipping, consider guacamole for an alternative)

As I rummaged through my kitchen, a whimsical idea struck me: what if tacos could be transformed into adorable ghostly figures for Halloween? That’s how these Ghost Taco Hand Pies came to life! Perfect for festive gatherings and playful dinners, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of a savory taco filling, wrapped in a flaky crust that’s both visually appealing and irresistible. Plus, they’re quick and easy to whip up, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. Imagine the joy when your little ones see these fun hand pies at the dinner table! Ready to bring some spooky flair to your next meal? Let’s get cooking!

Why Make Ghost Taco Hand Pies?

Versatile Delight: These hand pies can easily switch from spooky ghost shapes to fun pizza pocket versions, making them perfect for any occasion.
Kid-Approved Fun: Kids love the playful design, ensuring they’ll gobble them up at dinner or parties.
Quick & Easy: With only a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time—ideal for busy weekdays!
Flavorful Filling: The savory taco mixture, rich cheese, and optional veggies create a mouth-watering explosion of taste.
Perfect Party Food: Serve with a variety of dips like salsa or guacamole for a hit at gatherings or Halloween festivities. Check out how to amp up your party spread with Ghost S’Mores Dip for another crowd-pleaser!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Ingredients

For the Filling
• Lean Ground Beef or Ground Turkey/Chicken – The main protein source; swap for plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
• Taco Seasoning – Adds flavor and spice; consider homemade for lower sodium content.
• Shredded Carrot (optional) – Introduces sweetness and nutrition; can be replaced with diced zucchini or omitted.
• Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (optional) – Boosts color and nutrition in the filling.

For the Crust
• Pie Crusts (defrosted but unbaked) – The delicious base for your hand pies; use store-bought for convenience or homemade for a fresh touch.

For the Topping
• Shredded Mexican Cheese – Provides richness; opt for a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
• Egg (for brushing) – Gives the pies a beautiful golden brown finish; use non-dairy milk for a vegan option.

For Dipping
• Salsa (for dipping) – A delightful complement to the hand pies; consider guacamole for a tasty alternative.

These wonderful Ghost Taco Hand Pies combine ease and creativity into a dish that the whole family will absolutely love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté 1 pound of lean ground beef or turkey for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles until browned. Add taco seasoning and any optional veggies like shredded carrot or chopped bell pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and the veggies are tender, which should take an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Roll and Cut Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your defrosted pie crusts to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to stamp out an even number of shapes, ensuring you have pairs for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Gather any dough scraps, re-roll, and continue cutting until you have enough ghost shapes.

Step 3: Fill and Seal
Place half of the ghost-shaped cutouts onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Spoon a generous amount of the taco mixture onto each ghost, then sprinkle with shredded Mexican cheese. Top with the matching ghost cutouts, pressing the edges gently. Use a fork to seal the edges firmly to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.

Step 4: Create Eyes
Using a small knife, cut two tiny holes in the top layer of each ghosted pie to create “eyes.” This allows steam to escape while they bake and adds a fun touch to your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Make sure not to cut too large; small slits are perfect for keeping the spooky shape intact.

Step 5: Brush and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Before baking, brush the tops of the hand pies with an egg wash for a lovely golden finish. Bake the Ghost Taco Hand Pies in the preheated oven for 10-14 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them for a beautiful color that signals they are done.

Step 6: Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the Ghost Taco Hand Pies from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm alongside salsa or guacamole for dipping. Enjoy these whimsical treats at your Halloween gathering or family dinner, bringing comfort and creativity to your table!

What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Getting the whole family involved in the kitchen can make mealtime even more special; here’s how to build the perfect feast around your ghostly creations.

Colorful Salad: A vibrant garden salad adds crisp freshness, balancing the savory flavors of the pies with colorful veggies and a zesty dressing.
Spicy Salsa: A bowl of homemade salsa enhances flavor with its bright acidity and spice, perfect for dipping those adorable ghost figures.
Guacamole Delight: Creamy guacamole provides a rich and velvety contrast to the flaky crust, making every bite a tantalizing experience.
Creamy Ranch Dip: For a cool twist, serve with ranch dressing, offering a smooth creamy complement to the crispy pies that both kids and adults will adore.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn perfectly complements the dish adding a smoky flavor that ties in beautifully with the taco theme.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they provide a fun texture and delicious taste pairing alongside your spooky hand pies.
Chilled Lemonade: Refreshing and citrusy, a glass of lemonade balances the rich flavors of the pies and keeps the festive spirit alive!
Pumpkin Spice Brownies: For dessert, sink your teeth into these fudgy treats that bring the fall flavors together, creating a sweet end to a fun meal.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling (with the ground meat, taco seasoning, and optional veggies) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cut out the ghost shapes from the pie crust and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to maintain their freshness. When it’s time to cook, assemble the hand pies by filling them with your prepared filling and cheese, sealing the edges securely. Brush with egg wash, bake at 425°F for 10-14 minutes, and enjoy the same delicious taste as if they were made fresh!

Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Crispy Crust: For an extra crispy texture, reheat leftover hand pies in the oven rather than the microwave. This keeps them flaky and delicious!
Seal Properly: Be sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork or by pinching them to prevent any of the savory filling from leaking out during baking.
Custom Fillings: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Try using different meats or even vegetables to create unique flavor profiles for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
Baking Time Variation: If you use larger cookie cutters for your ghost shapes, monitor the baking time and adjust it accordingly to ensure the filling heats through.
Fun Shapes: Use various cookie cutters to make a mix of fun shapes, not just ghosts! This way, you can keep the recipe playful for your family dinners or Halloween parties.

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful hand pies, allowing your taste buds to explore new flavors and textures!

Pizza Filling: Swap the taco filling for pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni pieces for a fun twist. Imagine the gooey, cheesy goodness wrapped in that flaky crust!
Vegetable Medley: Use a mix of chopped mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers instead of meat to create a colorful, hearty vegetarian version. Your family will love the hearty veggie bite!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the taco filling for an extra layer of flavor and heat. This little boost will surely excite your palate!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute shredded cheese with a dairy-free alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy these hand pies regardless of dietary restrictions. It’s still packed with flavor!
Sweet Potato Filling: Replace the meat with mashed sweet potato mixed with taco seasoning for a slightly sweet yet savory twist. The creamy texture is irresistible and a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Guacamole Dip: Serve alongside a fresh guacamole dip instead of classic salsa for a creamy upgrade. It helps balance the flavors and adds a rich depth to each bite!
Multiple Shapes: Experiment with holiday-themed shapes like pumpkins or bats for different occasions, allowing for endless fun and creativity in the kitchen. This could be a Halloween hit as well!
Crunchy Coating: For an added crunch, consider brushing the tops of the hand pies with crushed tortilla chips before baking. This adds a delightful texture that everyone will appreciate.

For more creative dips that can enhance your hand pie experience, don’t miss out on making a tasty Ghost S’Mores Dip or adding a refreshing side with Taco Bell Mexican Pizza!

Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Allow the hand pies to cool completely before storing them at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you plan to keep them longer, transfer to the fridge.

Fridge: Store any leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and ready for a quick snack or meal.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cooled hand pie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat frozen hand pies in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of meat works best for the filling?
Lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken make excellent choices for the filling. If you’re seeking a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based meat alternatives—they’ll still deliver that satisfying texture and flavor that everyone loves!

How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Once cooled, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and grants you quick access to a tasty snack or meal when cravings strike!

Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the hand pies cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Whenever you’re ready to indulge, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until warm and crispy.

What happens if my dough cracks during rolling?
If your pie crust cracks while rolling, it may be too cold. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften. If it’s very difficult to work with, you can patch up small cracks by pressing the dough together with your fingers. If all else fails, simply roll it back up and try again—don’t worry, it’ll be delicious regardless!

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes! To make these Ghost Taco Hand Pies vegan, substitute ground meat with plant-based meat, use dairy-free cheese, and brush with almond or soy milk instead of egg. Everyone can enjoy the fun of this spooky dish!

Are there any dietary considerations for ingredients?
When preparing this recipe, it’s essential to be aware of allergies. For example, if you’re serving guests with dairy allergies, swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative. Check other ingredients like taco seasoning too, as pre-packaged varieties may contain allergens like wheat. Always customize ingredients to fit dietary preferences and health needs!