Name: Ghost Taco Hand Pies: Spooky Treats for Halloween Fun
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken); 1 packet taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup shredded carrot (can substitute with bell peppers or zucchini); 1 cup chopped bell pepper or baby spinach (optional); 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese (can substitute with cheddar or mozzarella); 2 packets pie crusts (ready-made or homemade); 1 egg egg (can substitute with milk or water for brushing); 1 cup salsa (homemade or store-bought)

As the leaves turn and Halloween creeps in, there’s something irresistibly enchanting about transforming ordinary meals into whimsical treats. I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Ghost Taco Hand Pies! These delightful little pockets blend the classic comfort of tacos with a spooky twist, making them the perfect addition to your Halloween festivities or a cozy family gathering. With their quick prep time and versatility—choose between savory taco fillings or delightful pizza alternatives—these hand pies promise to please both kids and adults alike. Whether served with luscious salsa or creamy guacamole, you’ll want to make these again and again. Ready to make your kitchen a bit more hauntingly delicious? Let’s dive into this fun, family-friendly recipe!

Why Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies So Fun?

Festive Fun: These hand pies bring a playful twist to your Halloween table, transforming ordinary tacos into spooky treats that kids will love.

Quick & Easy: With a simple preparation process, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy evenings or last-minute parties!

Versatile Fillings: Choose from classic taco ingredients or switch it up with pizza-inspired fillings for a delightful alternative.

Crowd-Pleaser: These savory pockets cater to all taste buds and are sure to impress guests at any Halloween gathering. Serve with salsa or guacamole for added flavor!

Creative Presentation: Plus, their fun ghost shapes make them not just a meal but a festive decoration for your dinner table, inviting everyone to enjoy the whimsy.

Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients

For the Filling
• Lean Ground Beef – The main protein source; swap for ground turkey or chicken if desired.
• Taco Seasoning – Infuses flavor into the meat; use homemade or store-bought varieties for convenience.
• Shredded Carrot – Adds natural sweetness and nutrients; can be replaced with finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini.
• Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach – Optional; enhances flavor and adds color to your filling.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor; cheddar or mozzarella works well as a substitute.

For the Crust
• Pie Crusts – Ready-made for quick preparation; consider homemade crust for a fresher taste.
• Egg – For brushing the top; gives the hand pies a golden, glossy finish. Substitute milk or water if needed.

For Serving
• Salsa – A perfect accompaniment that adds freshness; enjoy homemade or take a shortcut with store-bought salsas.

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these Ghost Taco Hand Pies, and remember, the combinations are endless—allowing you to enjoy this festive treat throughout the Halloween season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Taco Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of lean ground beef for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Stir in your favorite taco seasoning and optional shredded carrots, chopped bell peppers, or baby spinach. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Once everything is evenly combined and cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Roll Out Pie Crusts
On a lightly floured surface, take two unbaked pie crusts and roll each out gently with a rolling pin. Aim for about 1/8-inch thickness to ensure they are manageable. Using ghost-shaped cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the dough, making sure you have an equal number of tops and bottoms for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Gather and re-roll any dough scraps as needed.

Step 3: Fill Ghost Shapes
Arrange half of the ghost shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a generous amount of the taco filling onto the center of each shape, followed by a sprinkle of shredded Mexican cheese. Be cautious not to overfill, as this can prevent proper sealing. The filling should be heaped nicely but with enough space to allow for a good seal with the tops.

Step 4: Seal and Cut Eyes
Place the remaining ghost cut-outs over the filled shapes to create the tops of your hand pies. Press around the edges firmly to seal them completely. Using a small circular tool or a knife, cut out tiny holes for eyes and mouths in each ghost to give them their spooky charm. This step is essential for letting steam escape while baking.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
To achieve that beautiful golden finish, whisk one egg in a small bowl to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the tops of the sealed Ghost Taco Hand Pies with the egg mixture. This will lend a lovely shine and enhance the overall appearance of your festive treats.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and once ready, place the baking sheet with your prepared Ghost Taco Hand Pies into the oven. Bake for about 10-14 minutes, watching carefully for them to turn a rich golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that Halloween treats are on the way!

Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove your Ghost Taco Hand Pies from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They will be hot out of the oven! Serve them warm with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping. The flakiness of the crust paired with the savory filling makes this spooky snack a perfect addition to any Halloween gathering.

How to Store and Freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies

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

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the baked hand pies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen hand pies, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Prep Tips: If you want to make ahead, consider preparing the filling in advance and assembling the hand pies just before baking for fresh, delicious results.

Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

• Roll It Right: Ensure your pie crust is rolled to about 1/8-inch thickness for the ideal flaky texture that supports the filling without tearing.

• Fill Wisely: Don’t overfill your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. A heaping spoonful is enough—this prevents bursting and keeps the filling from leaking out during baking.

• Keep It Chilled: Use chilled pie crust for easier handling. If it gets warm while rolling out, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to maintain that perfect texture.

• Creative Cutouts: Have fun with shapes! While ghosts are perfect for Halloween, feel free to use pumpkins or other festive designs for variety.

• Taste the Twist: Experiment with different fillings, like swapping taco meat for pizza ingredients. Your Ghost Taco Hand Pies can easily become party favorites with this simple change.

What to Serve With Ghost Taco Hand Pies

These delightful treats are not only fun to eat but also perfect for creating a spooky Halloween feast the whole family will love.

Creamy Guacamole: This smooth and buttery dip offers a refreshing contrast to the savory filling, making each bite more enjoyable.
Zesty Salsa: A tangy salsa brightens up the dish and adds a burst of flavor that complements the rich taco filling beautifully.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the hand pies while offering a fresh crunch.
Sweet Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled or buttered corn pairs wonderfully with the savory hand pies, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve them on the side with additional salsa or guacamole for a delicious crunch and a bit of extra fun.
Spooky Punch: A cool, fruity punch in eerie colors makes for a festive drink option, adding to the ambiance of your Halloween gathering.
Pumpkin Spice Brownies: For dessert, these fudgy treats add a seasonal touch and subtly tie in with the Halloween theme for a perfect end to the meal.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This grilled corn, topped with creamy cheese and spices, offers a delightful, flavorful side dish that enhances the festive spirit.
Savory Bean Salad: A mix of black beans, corn, and avocado can bring refreshing textures and flavors, providing a nutritious element to your spread.

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity as you customize these delicious hand pies with tempting twists and tasty alternatives!

Dairy-Free: Replace shredded cheese with a dairy-free cheese substitute for a lighter option.
Vegetarian: Use black beans or lentils instead of meat, seasoned with taco spices for a hearty filling.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level in your taco filling.

For those who enjoy bold flavors, consider the heat of fresh jalapeños. It adds a punch and pairs well with your favorite spicy salsa.

Pizza Filling: Substitute taco filling with pepperoni and mozzarella for a fun pizza flavor—perfect for kids!
Sweet Twist: Create a dessert version filled with chocolate or pumpkin pie filling, perfect for Halloween!

Imagine the delight of serving pumpkin-filled hand pies after dinner, spreading warmth and sweetness around the table.

Whole Wheat Crust: Switch to whole wheat pie crusts for a healthier twist, adding a nutty flavor to the hand pies.
Herb Infusion: Integrate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into your filling for an herbaceous freshness that brightens the dish.

For a refreshing touch, herbs like cilantro can make your fillings pop and elevate the overall flavor profile.

Feel free to explore these delicious alternatives as you craft your own version of Ghost Taco Hand Pies—they’re sure to be a hit at your Halloween gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy Halloween festivities with minimal last-minute stress! You can prepare the taco filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cook it as directed and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, cut out the pie crust ghost shapes and store them between sheets of parchment paper in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, fill the crusts with the chilled filling, seal, apply the egg wash, and bake as directed. This way, you ensure that your hand pies are just as delicious and flaky while saving valuable time during your Halloween preparations!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What kind of meat can I use for the filling?
Absolutely! While lean ground beef is a favorite, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try black beans or sautéed mushrooms mixed with taco seasoning.

How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Store your Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their deliciousness, I recommend reheating them in the oven or air fryer to restore that lovely crispiness.

Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful treats! After baking, let them cool completely. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.

What if my hand pies burst open while baking?
Don’t worry, it happens! If your Ghost Taco Hand Pies burst, it’s often due to overfilling. Make sure you only use a heaping spoonful of filling and seal them tightly to avoid any leaks. Also, cutting out small holes for steam will help prevent bursting.

Are these hand pies suitable for kids?
Very! These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are not only fun but also customizable. You can adjust the spice level in the filling or even opt for a non-spicy cheese mixture to cater to younger taste buds. They make for a delightful and engaging cooking activity with kids!

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the taco filling in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, just make sure to let it come to room temperature before assembling the hand pies. This way, they will be fresh and easy to bake when you’re ready to serve them!