Name: Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey, or chicken); 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning; 1/4 cup shredded carrot (optional); 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper or baby spinach (optional); 2 pie crusts (defrosted but unbaked); 1/3 cup shredded Mexican cheese; 1 egg (for brushing); Salsa (for dipping)

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe

Ghost Taco Hand Pies are a fun and delicious way to celebrate fall flavors, Halloween, or any festive gathering. These delightful mini pies are not just visually appealing with their spooky ghost shapes, but they also pack a flavorful punch, making them an enticing treat for both kids and adults alike. You may also find Nectarine Hand Pies useful.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating Ghost Taco Hand Pies is an excellent way to add some creativity to your cooking routine. Not only can you customize them with various toppings and fillings, but they are also perfect for meal prep or as a party appetizer. If you enjoy hands-on cooking activities, making these pies is a fantastic family project. Plus, if you’re looking for more taco-inspired dishes, try making some authentic birria tacos for an added flavor experience.

How to Make Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Making Ghost Taco Hand Pies is straightforward, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time. Let’s get started with the ingredients and directions! You may also find Bbq Chicken Tacos useful.

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef (ground turkey, or chicken)
1 Tablespoon taco seasoning
1/4 cup shredded carrot (optional)
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper or baby spinach (optional)
2 pie crusts (defrosted but unbaked)
1/3 cup shredded Mexican cheese
1 egg (for brushing)
Salsa (for dipping)

Directions

To create the taco filling, first set a medium skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the ground beef and begin to break it apart into crumbles. If you’re opting for ground turkey or chicken, warm a drizzle of olive oil in the skillet before adding the meat. Next, add the taco seasoning and any optional vegetables, such as shredded carrot or bell pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, until the meat is browned; remember to keep breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Now, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Roll out the pie crusts on a pastry mat or a counter lightly dusted with flour. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes, ensuring you have an even number for each taco pie—one shape for the top and one for the bottom. Gather any scraps of dough and roll them out again until you’ve used all the pie crust.

Arrange half of the cut ghost shapes on your prepared baking sheets, ensuring you leave some space around each. Spoon a small amount of the taco filling into the center of each ghost, then sprinkle a bit of cheese on top. To create the classic ghost features, use something small and round to cut out eyes and/or a mouth from the remaining ghost shapes—many find that the lid of a Crayola marker works perfectly! Place the cut-out shapes over each filled ghost on the baking sheets, and use the tines of a fork to gently seal all the edges.

In a small bowl, mix the egg with a splash of water or milk to create an egg wash, then brush this mixture over the top of each mini pie.

Bake the hand pies for 10-14 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. After baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a minute or two. Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping and enjoy this spook-tacular treat!

Pro Tips for Success Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor of your filling. This not only improves taste but also adds nutritional value.
Customize Your Filling: Don’t hesitate to mix up your filling ingredients. You could add beans, corn, or even different types of cheese to create unique flavor variations tailored to your preference.
Experiment with Spices: Add your favorite spices or herbs to the taco seasoning for an extra kick. Chipotle powder or paprika can add a smoky flavor to your filling.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. This will save time on cooking day!
Test the Heat: Every oven is different; watch for doneness as baking times might vary slightly.
Fun Presentation: Consider serving these pies on a plate decorated with a spooky theme to enhance the fun experience during Halloween parties or other festive occasions.

Flavor Variations for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Buffalo Chicken: Swap the beef for shredded buffalo chicken for a spicy twist on the classic recipe.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and beans for a tasty vegetarian version.
Cheesy Quesadilla: For a cheese lover’s option, use cheese only, mixing different types like pepper jack or cheddar along with some taco seasoning.
Breakfast Hand Pies: Use scrambled eggs, cheese, and diced veggies for a hearty breakfast variation.
Sweet Twist: For an unexpected dessert, fill the pies with a mixture of sweetened cream cheese and fruit for a unique dessert option.

Serving Suggestions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with traditional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sour cream. Additionally, you might consider serving them alongside a warm bowl of chili or alongside some crispy tortilla chips.

For a festive presentation, arrange them on a platter adorned with themed decorations, especially around Halloween. This will surely impress your guests and set the mood for a delightful meal.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

If you have leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies, they can be stored easily. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, these hand pies freeze exceptionally well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, bake straight from the freezer at 350 degrees F until hot and golden brown.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 185
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 350mg

FAQ About Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Can I use store-bought pie crusts?

Yes, store-bought pie crusts are a convenient option and will save you time in preparing these ghost hand pies. Just make sure to defrost them according to package instructions before use.

How can I make these hand pies healthier?

To make these hand pies healthier, consider using whole wheat pie crusts and leaner meats like ground turkey. You can also omit the cheese or reduce the quantity for fewer calories.

Can I make mini versions of these hand pies?

Absolutely! You can use smaller cookie cutters to create mini ghost hand pies. Keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted accordingly.

What dipping sauces work best with these hand pies?

Salsa and guacamole are great choices for dipping sauces. You can also serve them with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for something different.

Are there any alternatives if I don’t have ghost-shaped cookie cutters?

If you don’t have ghost-shaped cutters, you can use any shape you have on hand. Hearts, stars, or plain circles work just as well, and the pies will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are a fantastic way to enjoy a fun twist on a classic dish while engaging in some creative cooking. Perfect for gatherings, they bring a festive spirit to any meal. With their customizable fillings and delightful shapes, they are sure to be a hit at your next event! Whether served with salsa, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce, they are deliciously satisfying and easy to make. Enjoy this spooky treat that blends fun with flavor!