Name: Spooky and Savory Ghost Taco Hand Pies for Halloween Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Meat (Lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken); 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning; 1 cup Shredded Carrot (Can substitute with finely chopped veggies like zucchini or bell pepper); 1 cup Chopped Bell Pepper (Optional; can mix in your family’s favorites); 1 cup Chopped Spinach (Optional; can mix in your family’s favorites); 2 units Pie Crust (Unbaked; refrigerated ones save prep time); 1 cup Shredded Mexican Cheese; 1 unit Egg (For egg wash); 1 cup Salsa (For dipping)

As the leaves turn and the air fills with a crispness that can only mean one thing—it’s Halloween season! This is the perfect time to bring a bit of spooky fun into the kitchen with my Ghost Taco Hand Pies. These delightful turnovers blend the savory goodness of seasoned meat with a flaky, golden crust, making them an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or festive treat for your family gatherings. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to get everyone in the spirit of Halloween without sacrificing homemade quality. Serve them warm with a side of salsa and guacamole for an extra layer of deliciousness. Curious to learn how to create these whimsical delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Ghost Taco Hand Pies irresistible?

Spooky Fun: These hand pies are a whimsical twist on traditional tacos, adding a playful element to your Halloween festivities.

Savory Goodness: Packed with seasoned meat and gooey cheese, each bite offers a burst of flavor that will delight both kids and adults.

Easy Preparation: With their simple assembly and no-fuss ingredients, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for last-minute gatherings!

Dipping Delight: Serve them with salsa or guacamole for an extra kick, making them an unforgettable appetizer everyone will rave about.

Versatile Options: Not just tacos! Try a pizza variation by swapping the filling for your favorite pizza ingredients for a delicious twist!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Ingredients

For the Filling

Ground Meat – Choose lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a protein-rich base.
Taco Seasoning – Essential for infusing the meat with classic taco flavors that everyone loves.
Shredded Carrot – Adds sweetness and nutrients; can substitute with finely chopped veggies like zucchini or bell pepper.
Chopped Bell Pepper/Spinach – Optional for added taste and nutrition; feel free to mix in your family’s favorites.

For the Crust

Pie Crust – Use two unbaked pie crusts; refrigerated ones save you precious prep time on busy days!

For the Topping & Serving

Shredded Mexican Cheese – Provides a gooey texture and delicious flavor that complements the filling perfectly.
Egg – Brush on top for a glossy finish that enhances appearance and taste.
Salsa – Perfect for dipping, adding an extra kick to your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Prepare for a delightful Halloween treat with these delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Make the Taco Filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add your choice of lean ground meat. Brown the meat, breaking it apart with a spatula for about 5-6 minutes. Once thoroughly cooked, stir in taco seasoning and any optional vegetables like shredded carrots or chopped bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your refrigerated pie crusts on a floured surface to ensure easy handling. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out equal top and bottom shapes for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Keep the cut-outs close together to maximize the use of the dough, and place them on a lined baking sheet for easier transfer to the oven later.

Step 3: Fill Ghosts
On half of the ghost-shaped cutouts, spoon an even layer of the savory taco filling, being careful not to overfill. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Mexican cheese over the filling, which will melt beautifully during baking. This adds to the indulgent flavor of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Step 4: Seal and Cut Openings
Top each filled ghost shape with a matching cut-out, gently pressing the edges together. To seal them properly, use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring a tight seal so the filling doesn’t escape while baking. Use a sharp knife to cut small slits in the tops, allowing steam to escape and preventing any bursting.

Step 5: Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together an egg and a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Using a pastry brush, carefully brush the egg mixture over the tops of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. This step adds a lovely golden color and sheen to the pies, making them even more irresistible when they come out of the oven.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the assembled Ghost Taco Hand Pies on the middle rack and bake for 10-14 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them—once you see that inviting golden hue, you’ll know they’re ready to come out and be enjoyed!

Step 7: Serve Warm
Once baked to perfection, remove the Ghost Taco Hand Pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve them warm with a side of your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping, enhancing their flavors and making for an exciting Halloween treat. Enjoy this festive, savory delight with family and friends!

Make Ahead Options

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time for your spooky festivities! You can prepare the taco filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cook the ground meat with taco seasoning and optional veggies, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cut the pie crusts into ghost shapes up to 24 hours ahead and keep them in the fridge, using parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, just reassemble the hand pies, add the filling, and bake as instructed for a delicious homemade treat that tastes just as delightful!

Tips for the Best Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Crisp Crust: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. A hot oven is key for flaky results!
Don’t Overfill: Be cautious about the amount of taco filling you use; too much can cause the hand pies to leak during baking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
Seal it Right: Use a fork to crimp the edges thoroughly; this not only ensures that the filling stays inside but creates a beautiful design for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
Baking Sheet Prep: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup. This helps with the overall presentation of your hand pies!
Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe focuses on savory taco goodness, feel free to switch it up! Try a pizza variation or include seasonal veggies to make them your own.

What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies

As you gather with friends and family for Halloween festivities, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

Creamy Guacamole: The smoothness of guacamole pairs perfectly with the flaky crust, adding a rich flavor contrast to each bite.
Spicy Salsa: With its zesty kick, salsa complements the savory filling for a truly mouthwatering experience.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This fresh salad offers a crisp and refreshing option, enhancing the meal’s flavors with sweet corn and tangy lime.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide an extra textural layer, perfect for scooping up extra salsa or guacamole.
Refried Beans: Their creamy texture pairs beautifully with the hand pies, making it a hearty addition to your spread.
Chilled Watermelon Salad: A sweet, juicy salad balances the savory hand pies, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay beautifully complements the flavors of the hand pies, adding sophistication to your Halloween feast.
Pumpkin Spice Brownies: For dessert, these decadent treats will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping with the festive spirit.

These pairings transform your Ghost Taco Hand Pies into a delicious, memorable feast that captures the fun of the season!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Ghost Taco Hand Pies and let your culinary creativity shine through with these delectable twists!

Pizza Twist: Substitute taco filling with pizza sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni for a cheesy Italian-inspired treat. Perfect for little pizza lovers!
Veggie Delight: Use roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers instead of meat for a wholesome vegetarian version. Each bite bursts with flavor and nutrients!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the taco filling for those who crave a bit of heat. Spice it up and watch these pies disappear!
Dairy-Free: Swap out the shredded cheese for dairy-free alternatives or simply omit it for an equally scrumptious taco vibe. You won’t sacrifice taste but cater to dietary needs.
Grain-Free Option: Use almond flour or coconut flour dough instead of traditional pie crusts for a gluten-free variant. These options lend a unique texture and flavor to the hand pies!
Flavor Infusion: Brush the crust with garlic butter before baking for a savory aroma that will have everyone eager to dig in. The added layer of flavor will bring your Ghost Taco Hand Pies to life!
Sweet Surprise: Try a dessert version by swapping savory filling for sweet ingredients like pie filling or chocolate hazelnut spread. How about Halloween-themed hand pies that satisfy your sweet tooth?

If you find yourself inspired by these variations, why not check out how to make Meringue Ghost Cookies as a spooky sweet treat? Or, pair your hand pies with a delightful Mexican salad to round out your meal perfectly!

How to Store and Freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Fridge: Store any leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful for your next snack or meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to baking time.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispy crust, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.

Preparation Tip: Consider making a double batch of the Ghost Taco Hand Pies and freezing half for a quick, ready-to-bake treat when cravings strike!

Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What kind of ground meat can I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can choose lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken for your filling. Each option provides a protein-rich base to keep everyone fueled and satisfied. I often use turkey for a leaner alternative—just remember to adjust the seasoning slightly as turkey has a milder flavor.

How should I store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
To keep your hand pies fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay flavorful for your next snack! Just remember to reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave for that ultimate crispy texture.

Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies and how?
Yes! To freeze, lay the unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once set, transfer them to a freezer bag where they’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time for a perfectly flaky crust.

What’s the best way to reheat the Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the hand pies on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. I recommend avoiding the microwave, as it tends to make them soggy, which is not the goal for such a delightful treat!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Very! If you’re catering to allergies or dietary preferences, you can easily modify the filling. For instance, use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or switch to vegetarian protein sources like black beans or lentils. Always check your ingredient labels, especially for pre-made items like taco seasoning, to avoid common allergens.