Name: Spooky Ghost Taco Hand Pies for a Fun Halloween Feast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey/Chicken) (Main protein for savory filling); 1 packet Taco Seasoning (Adds a flavorful Mexican kick); 1 cup Shredded Carrot (Optional - adds sweetness and nutrition); 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper (Optional - adds color and nutrients); 1 cup Baby Spinach (Optional - substitute or omit as desired); 2 pieces Pie Crusts (defrosted but unbaked) (Store-bought for ease); 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese (Adds melty texture); 1 large Egg (For brushing to achieve golden finish); 1 cup Salsa (Perfect for adding zesty flavor)

As the sun sets and the crisp fall air creeps in, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, where the spirit of Halloween inspires playful recipes that delight both children and adults alike. Enter my Ghost Taco Hand Pies! These surprisingly simple yet cheerful bites are not only fun to assemble but also boast a savory taco filling encased in a flaky crust that perfectly captures that festive spirit. They’re incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of fillings, making them a fantastic solution for busy weeknights or spooky gatherings. Serve them with salsa or guacamole for a delightful dip that will have everyone coming back for more. Curious how to bring a spooky twist to your dinner table? Let’s get started!

Why Will You Love Ghost Taco Hand Pies?

Spooktacular Fun: These Ghost Taco Hand Pies add a whimsical touch to your Halloween festivities, making cooking feel like a celebration!

Easy Preparation: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious snack that even the kids can help with.

Savory Filling: Each bite bursts with a taco-inspired filling that will satisfy both young and old, ensuring everyone at your gathering gets their fill.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite fillings—try a pizza variation for your pizza lovers! No need to stick with just the taco version.

Perfect for Leftovers: Have leftover filling? Use it in other dishes, like quesadillas or salads, ensuring nothing goes to waste!

So, if you're after a festive treat that’s both fun and delicious, these ghostly delights will steal the show. Don't forget to check out Scramble Breakfast Tacos for a delightful morning twist!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to create these delightful treats!

For the Filling

Lean Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey/Chicken) – The main protein for a savory taco filling; feel free to substitute with your preferred ground meat or a meat alternative.
Taco Seasoning – This adds a flavorful Mexican kick; consider making your own blend for a personal touch.
Shredded Carrot (optional) – Adds a hint of sweetness and extra nutrition; zucchini or finely chopped bell pepper can work as substitutes.
Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (optional) – These add a pop of color and nutrients; omit for a simpler version if desired.

For the Crust

Pie Crusts (defrosted but unbaked) – These form the outer layer of your hand pies; using store-bought makes the process quick and easy.
Shredded Mexican Cheese – Adds a gooey, melty texture inside; swap in your favorite cheese if desired.

For Assembly

Egg (for brushing) – This provides a beautiful golden finish post-baking; a milk wash is a great dairy-free option.

For Dipping

Salsa (for dipping) – Perfect for adding a zesty flair when serving these Ghost Taco Hand Pies, enhancing their flavor profile.

Gather these ingredients to craft your spooky, savory hand pies, and watch your loved ones enjoy each bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Make Taco Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of lean ground beef (or chicken/turkey) until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and optional veggies like shredded carrots and bell peppers. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. The mix should smell fragrant and be slightly saucy; remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare Pie Crust
While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out store-bought pie crust on a lightly floured surface and use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out as many ghost shapes as you can. Keep equal numbers for the tops and bottoms of the Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Place the cut shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Fill Ghosts
Spoon generous portions of the cooled taco filling onto half of the ghost shapes, making sure to leave about a half-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle each filling with shredded Mexican cheese for that melty goodness. The goal is to create a delightful surprise inside each ghost pie while keeping them manageable to seal.

Step 4: Seal Pies
Top each filled ghost with another ghost shape that includes cute facial cutouts. Press the edges together firmly, then seal them with a fork by crimping along the edges. This helps keep the filling snugly inside while baking. It's important to ensure the edges are well-sealed to avoid any leaks during baking.

Step 5: Brush Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg with a splash of water or milk until combined. Brush this egg wash over the tops of the assembled Ghost Taco Hand Pies using a pastry brush, giving them a beautiful golden finish. This step is key to achieving that enticing color as they bake.

Step 6: Bake
Place the baking sheets with the ghost hand pies into your preheated oven. Bake for 10-14 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; your Ghost Taco Hand Pies should look deliciously crunchy and puffed up.

Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Serve your delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies warm with salsa or guacamole on the side for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in this spooky Halloween treat!

What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Set the stage for a delightful Halloween feast by pairing these spooky hand pies with fun and flavorful sides that elevate your dining experience.

Salsa Verde: This zesty green salsa adds a fresh, tangy flavor that complements the savory filling beautifully, making each bite more exciting.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole offers a luscious contrast to the flaky crust of the Ghost Taco Hand Pies, creating a dreamy dipping experience.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice balances the hearty hand pies and provides a comforting base on the plate, adding a satisfying texture to the meal.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad bursts with sweetness and crunch, adding brightness to your Halloween spread and balancing the richness of the hand pies.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans enhance the meal's heartiness and bring a traditional Mexican flavor that pairs well with the taco-inspired filling.
Crispy Oven-Baked Tortilla Chips: Serve these crunchy chips on the side for added texture and a fun way to scoop up the salsa, perfect for festive gatherings.
Spooky Mocktails: Whip up some Halloween-inspired mocktails, like a fizzy blood orange soda, to add a playful and festive drink option that everyone can enjoy.
Pumpkin Spice Brownies: End the meal with a sweet treat—pumpkin spice brownies add a seasonal twist that will have your guests raving long after the feast.

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these delightful hand pies with your favorite ingredients!

Pizza Filling: Swap out the taco filling for pizza sauces, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni for an Italian twist.
Vegetarian Delight: Use a mix of peppers, mushrooms, and spinach instead of meat for a hearty veggie option that everyone will love.
Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute regular pie crust with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Extra Spice: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a kick that’ll have spice lovers cheering.
Herb Fusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic flavor boost that brightens up each bite.
Creamy Filling: Incorporate cream cheese or Greek yogurt into the filling for extra creaminess and richness that kids adore.
Taco Salad Twist: Use the filling as a taco salad topping instead of in a crust for a lighter, salad-style option.
Sweet Treats: Feeling adventurous? Fill with sweetened cream cheese and diced strawberries for a unique dessert variation.

Don't forget to check out Taco Ranch Bites for another fun and festive delight, or even try Scramble Breakfast Tacos to kickstart your day!

Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Fridge: Store your Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze hand pies before baking. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Reheating in an air fryer is also a great option for that perfect crunch!

Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and cut out ghost shapes ahead of time, storing them separated in the fridge, allowing for an easy assembly just before baking your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Avoid Overstuffing: When filling the ghost shapes, be careful not to overstuff them. Too much filling can make sealing difficult and cause leaks during baking.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! These Ghost Taco Hand Pies can easily adapt to various fillings like pizza ingredients or even vegetarian options to suit everyone's taste.
Seal Well: Ensure the edges of your hand pies are securely crimped with a fork. This keeps all the delicious taco filling inside and prevents any mess while baking.
Check Baking Time: Keep a close watch on your pies as they bake. They should be golden brown and flaky, so don't hesitate to pull them out of the oven if they reach that perfection early.
Use Leftover Fillings: If you have extra taco filling, try using it in other meals, like quesadillas or salads, ensuring nothing goes to waste while enjoying the savory flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the Halloween hustle! You can prepare the taco filling and cut out the ghost shapes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the filling, allow it to cool, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the ghost shapes, cut them out and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, covering them tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, simply assemble by spooning the filling onto the ghost shapes, sealing them, brushing with egg wash, and popping them in the oven. This way, you’ll have spooky, homemade bites ready with minimal effort, ensuring they taste just as delicious as fresh!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best meat for the taco filling?
Absolutely! For the filling, lean ground beef, ground turkey, or chicken work beautifully. If you prefer a meat substitute, alternatives like lentils or textured vegetable protein can add a great texture and flavor, making these Ghost Taco Hand Pies suitable for everyone.

How should I store leftovers of these hand pies?
Very! Store your Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, I recommend reheating them in the oven or air fryer to keep that delightful crispiness!

Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap each assembled but unbaked hand pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just bake from frozen at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden and heated through.

What if my filling leaks during baking?
Oh no! To prevent leaks, be sure not to overfill the pies. During assembly, leave about half an inch of edge clear around the filling. Additionally, crimp the edges securely with a fork to ensure a tight seal. If you do experience leakage, serve them in bowls—it's still a delicious dinner!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very much so! These Ghost Taco Hand Pies can be customized to meet dietary needs. You can use gluten-free pie crust or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Also, be cautious of common allergens like dairy if you're using cheese; opt for dairy-free cheese if needed.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! You can make the filling and cut out the ghost shapes a day in advance. Store the cutouts in the fridge, then assemble and bake them just before your guests arrive for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!