As Halloween approaches, I can’t help but feel a thrill of excitement for the culinary creativity the season brings. There’s something wonderfully playful about transforming savory dishes into spooky works of art. Enter these delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies, a whimsical twist on traditional taco fare that will enchant both kids and adults alike at any Halloween gathering.
Imagine flaky, golden crusts shaped like friendly ghosts, each filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, colorful veggies, and melted cheese—all waiting to be devoured with your favorite salsa or guacamole. Preparing these hand pies is as simple as rolling out store-bought pie crusts and crafting ghostly shapes with cookie cutters. It’s the perfect dish to engage little chefs or impress your party guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients, and let’s whisk everyone away into a world of tasty fun this Halloween!
Why will you love these Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Delightful appearance: These ghostly hand pies are sure to capture the attention and delight of your guests, making them perfect for Halloween parties.
Quick and easy: Made with refrigerated pie crusts, they’re a breeze to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities.
Savory goodness: The combination of seasoned meat, fresh veggies, and melted cheese creates a flavor-packed bite that everyone will love.
Kid-friendly fun: Engaging kids in the cooking process makes for memorable family moments while instilling a love for homemade food.
Versatile options: Customize the filling or switch to a pizza variation for diverse flavors tailored to your crowd’s preferences.
Ingredients for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
• Create these festive treats with ease!
For the Filling
- Lean Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey/Chicken) – The main protein source that adds heartiness; feel free to swap with plant-based alternatives for vegetarian options.
- Taco Seasoning – Infuses the filling with robust flavors; homemade seasoning is a great choice to customize taste without excess sodium.
- Shredded Carrot – An optional filler that brings sweetness and nutrition; can be replaced with finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra color.
- Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Optional veggies that enhance both nutrition and visual appeal in your ghostly filling.
- Shredded Mexican Cheese – Adds a gooey, cheesy element that ties the flavors together; any cheese blend of your choice works beautifully.
For the Pie Crusts
- Pie Crusts – Provides a flaky outer layer; using refrigerated dough saves time, but you can make your own for that personal touch.
- Egg (for brushing) – Gives a lovely golden finish once baked; substitute with milk or a plant-based alternative for brushing if desired.
For Serving
- Salsa (for dipping) – Complements the hand pies with amazing flavor; both homemade or store-bought salsa enhance your ghostly experience!
How to Make Ghost Taco Hand Pies
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Prepare Filling: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground meat, breaking it apart. Add taco seasoning and any optional veggies, cooking until the meat is well browned, roughly 5-6 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Roll and Cut Crusts: Roll out pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and cut out ghost shapes using cookie cutters—make sure to cut an even number for both top and bottom.
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Fill Ghosts: Place half of the ghost-shaped crusts on a lined baking sheet. Spoon the delicious taco filling onto each ghost shape, then sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.
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Top and Seal: Use the remaining ghost cutouts to cover, ensuring each has holes for eyes and a mouth. Seal the edges tightly with a fork to keep the filling secure inside.
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Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, mix the egg with a splash of milk or water, then brush the mixture over the top of each hand pie for that perfect golden sheen.
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Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 10-14 minutes, until the hand pies are golden brown and flaky.
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Serve: Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping!
Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro or serve with a side of sour cream for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
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 by cooking it and then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to enhance its savory flavors. You can also cut the pie crusts into ghost shapes and keep them separated with parchment paper in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply spoon the filling onto the crusts, top them with cheese, seal, and brush with egg wash. This make-ahead strategy saves valuable time on party day while ensuring your hand pies are just as delicious and festive!
Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
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Room Temperature: These savory hand pies are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours during parties.
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Fridge: Store leftover ghost taco hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay delicious and ready to reheat.
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Freezer: If you need to save them for later, freeze the hand pies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: For the crispiest results, reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
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Don’t Overstuff: Ensure the filling isn’t overflowing. This keeps the edges accessible for sealing and prevents messy spills during baking.
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Seal Firmly: Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly. A good seal is essential to keep the savory filling inside and maintain the hand pies’ shape.
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Steam Escape: Make small holes in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents sogginess and helps achieve that desired crispy texture.
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Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to swap out the taco filling for something new! Consider using pizza sauce and cheese for a tasty pizza-inspired ghost taco hand pie.
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Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your hand pies towards the end of the baking time. You want them nicely golden brown for the perfect finish!
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Store Leftovers Smartly: If you have any ghosts left, store them in an airtight container. They can easily be reheated in an oven or air fryer without sacrificing crispiness.
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Get ready to elevate your Halloween festivities with delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement these playful hand pies!
- Creamy Guacamole: A velvety avocado dip that adds a rich, cool contrast to the savory filling. Perfect for dipping!
- Zesty Salsa: A fresh, homemade salsa packed with bright flavors enhances the pies’ taste, bringing a delightful kick to each bite.
- Crisp Salad: Serve with a refreshing side salad of mixed greens, colorful veggies, and a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Charred Corn on the Cob: Grilled sweet corn provides a delightful sweetness and crunch, perfect for pairing with the tacos’ flavors.
- Spooky Fruit Skewers: Arrange seasonal fruits on skewers for a fun, colorful, and healthy treat that adds a festive touch to your spread.
- Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: Warm and inviting, this seasonal drink offers a comforting sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory hand pies.
- Apple Cider: Serve chilled or warmed, its crisp, seasonal flavor makes for a lovely refreshment alongside your taco hand pies.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Conclude your meal with a classic dessert that adds a sweet ending, making Halloween celebrations extra special.
- Spiced Cinnamon Pretzels: These crunchy snacks bring a hint of sweetness and warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere for your Halloween gathering.
- Crisp Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked, these hearty wedges deliver a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the flaky hand pies.
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful hand pies your own with these fun variations!
- Vegetarian: Swap out meat for black beans or lentils, seasoned well with taco spices for a hearty filling.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add diced jalapeños or green chilies to the filling for a zesty kick that spices things up.
- Cheesy Veggie: Mix in some corn and shredded zucchini for a veggie-packed filling that complements the cheese beautifully.
- Pesto Delight: Replace taco seasoning with homemade basil pesto for an entirely new flavor profile—a delicious twist!
- Sweet Heat: Combine diced cooked sweet potatoes with a touch of chipotle for a sweet and smoky filling that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Pizza Ghosts: Instead of taco filling, use marinara sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni for a pizza-inspired hand pie that’s sure to please.
- Gourmet Touch: Incorporate some caramelized onions and goat cheese for a gourmet spin on these snacks that adds elegance and depth.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into your filling for an extra burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
These variations let you cater to every dietary preference and taste, ensuring that everyone can enjoy your spooky Halloween treats!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What kind of meat works best for the filling?
Absolutely! Lean ground beef, ground turkey, or even chicken are all fantastic options for the filling. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using plant-based ground meat or even a mix of beans and quinoa for a hearty, protein-packed option.
How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
For sure! Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy them later, freezing is also an option. Just wrap them tightly and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Very much so! To freeze before baking, arrange the unbaked hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time when you’re ready to enjoy them.
What if I don’t have a ghost-shaped cookie cutter?
No problem at all! You can use any cookie cutter shape you have on hand—hearts, stars, or even simple rounds work beautifully. Just make sure that you cut an even number so you can create a top and bottom for each pie.
Can pets eat Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
It’s best to keep these savory treats away from pets, as some ingredients like onions in the taco seasoning or excessive cheese can be harmful to them. Stick to pet-friendly snacks for your furry friends!
What should I do if my hand pies are leaking filling?
If your filling is leaking, it’s likely due to overstuffing or not sealing the edges tightly enough. To remedy this, go easy on the filling and be sure to crimp the edges well with a fork. If you’re still having trouble, consider adding small holes in the top crust to allow steam to vent, preventing pressure buildup.
Ghost Taco Hand Pies: Spooky Savory Treats for Halloween Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Filling: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground meat, breaking it apart. Add taco seasoning and any optional veggies, cooking until the meat is well browned, roughly 5-6 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Roll and Cut Crusts: Roll out pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and cut out ghost shapes using cookie cutters—make sure to cut an even number for both top and bottom.
- Fill Ghosts: Place half of the ghost-shaped crusts on a lined baking sheet. Spoon the delicious taco filling onto each ghost shape, then sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.
- Top and Seal: Use the remaining ghost cutouts to cover, ensuring each has holes for eyes and a mouth. Seal the edges tightly with a fork to keep the filling secure inside.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, mix the egg with a splash of milk or water, then brush the mixture over the top of each hand pie for that perfect golden sheen.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 10-14 minutes, until the hand pies are golden brown and flaky.
- Serve: Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping!