As I was rummaging through my pantry the other day, I stumbled upon some unfashionably cute pie crusts just waiting to be revived! That’s when the magic of Ghost Taco Hand Pies hit me—these delightful, customizable treats blend all the spicy joy of taco night into flaky, whimsical shapes. In just 40 minutes, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a fun meal that both kids and adults will adore. Plus, the best part? These hand pies are not only quick to prepare but also leave room for your creativity—swap in your favorite fillings or make them vegetarian! Paired with zesty salsa or creamy guacamole, each bite promises a cozy adventure. Ready to bring a little spook-tacular flavor to your dinner table?
Why Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies Unique?
Quick to prepare: Ready in just 40 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Customizable: Tailor the fillings to your taste, whether you love spicy jalapeños or prefer a veggie-packed version with black beans.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Their playful ghost shapes are perfect for getting kids involved in cooking, making mealtime a delightful experience.
Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, or serve as snacks at parties or Halloween get-togethers. For a delicious twist on taco aesthetics, check out Taco Spaghetti Cheesy.
Satisfying Crunch: The flaky crust locks in gooey, flavorful filling, ensuring every bite is a delightful combination of textures. Don’t forget to dip them in some fresh salsa or guacamole for an extra layer of flavor!
Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients
Elevate your taco night with these delightful hand pies!
For the Filling
- Lean Ground Beef, Turkey, or Chicken – This serves as the main protein for filling; feel free to substitute with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Taco Seasoning – Essential for that classic taco flavor; you can use store-bought or whip up your own to control the spice level.
- Shredded Carrot (optional) – Adds subtle sweetness and color; try replacing it with zucchini or corn for another tasty twist.
- Chopped Bell Pepper or Baby Spinach (optional) – Provides crunch and nutrients; other leafy greens or diced tomatoes work just as well.
For the Crust
- Pie Crusts (defrosted but unbaked) – This is the shell for your hand pies; opt for store-bought for ease or make your own for a personal touch.
For the Cheese
- Shredded Mexican Cheese – Melts wonderfully to create a creamy texture; substitute with dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free alternative.
For the Glaze
- Egg (for brushing) – This creates a gorgeous golden finish; substitute with a plant-based egg wash for a vegan version if desired.
For Serving
- Salsa – A must-have dipping sauce that adds a flavor contrast; choose from spicy or mild varieties to suit your taste!
With these ingredients, you'll have everything you need to create delicious, customized Ghost Taco Hand Pies that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Step 1: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat, adding your choice of lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and any optional vegetables like shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, ensuring everything is combined and heated through.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While your filling is cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. This is a perfect time to get your ingredients ready and organized for assembly.
Step 3: Prepare Pie Crust
Roll out the defrosted pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using ghost-shaped cookie cutters, cut out the dough into fun shapes. You should have an equal number of cutouts for the bottom and top of your hand pies. Keep the extra dough aside, as you can re-roll it to create more shapes.
Step 4: Assemble Pies
Place half of the ghost-shaped cutouts onto your prepared baking sheets. Spoon the meat mixture onto each cutout, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese over the filling, creating a gooey layer that melts beautifully. Now, it’s time to top them!
Step 5: Create Faces
Using the remaining pie crust cutouts, cut out eyes and mouths to decorate your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Carefully place these face cutouts on top of the filled pies, ensuring they fit nicely. This adds a playful touch to your hand pies, making them even more inviting for family and friends.
Step 6: Seal Edges
To prevent any filling from escaping during baking, use a fork to crimp the edges of each pie. Press down firmly along the border, ensuring a secure seal. This step is crucial for maintaining the delicious filling within each Ghost Taco Hand Pie.
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together an egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this mixture over each pie, giving them a beautiful golden finish as they bake. An egg wash also enhances the overall appearance, making them look enticing and appetizing.
Step 8: Bake
Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake the pies for 10-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for a golden-brown color and a puffed appearance. Once they’re perfectly baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 9: Serve
Allow your Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve them warm alongside zesty salsa or creamy guacamole for dipping, enhancing their delightful flavors. Gather around the table and enjoy this fun, delicious twist on taco night!
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
- Sealing is Key: Ensure the edges are tightly crimped to prevent any filling from leaking during baking. A thorough seal means more gooey goodness inside!
- Monitor Bake Time: Keep an eye on the pies as they bake. Overbaking will leave you with dry hand pies instead of that delightful flaky texture.
- Chill the Dough: If the pie crusts get too soft while cutting out shapes, refrigerate them for about 15 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and cut clean shapes.
- Filling Variety: Don't hesitate to get creative! You can switch up the fillings according to your family’s preferences. Use the customizable aspect of Ghost Taco Hand Pies to add seasonal veggies for bonus nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: If you love heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a zesty kick.
Storage Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
- Room Temperature: Store baked hand pies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness while allowing them to remain slightly warm.
- Fridge: Keep any leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
- Freezer: Unbaked hand pies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for that perfect golden-brown finish.
- Reheating: To revive your hand pies, heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes for a crispy texture.
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Ghost Taco Hand Pies—your kitchen journey begins with your imagination!
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Vegetarian: Replace meat with seasoned black beans or lentils for a plant-based delight.
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Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to spice things up! Feel the heat embracing each bite as your taste buds dance.
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Southwestern Style: Incorporate corn and diced tomatoes into the filling for a fresh flavor twist. This adds a pop of sweetness that perfectly complements the seasonings.
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Breakfast Edition: Swap the meat for scrambled eggs and add breakfast sausage for a morning treat. Imagine feasting on these while sipping a warm cup of coffee!
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Dessert Version: Fill with a mixture of cream cheese and pumpkin puree, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet surprise. Who knew hand pies could bring a charming twist to dessert?
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy. The flakiness will still shine through, ensuring no one misses out on the fun!
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Crunchy Twist: Experiment with using crushed tortilla chips or fried onions in your filling for an added crunch. The textural contrast will surprise and delight!
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Flavor Boost: Change up the cheese—try pepper jack for a little extra kick, or go dairy-free with your favorite plant-based cheese. Each variation will bring a new flavor to your Ghost Taco Hand Pies!
For even more customizable ideas, consider checking out these delightful recipes like Taco Bell Crunchwrap or indulge in Fish Taco Bowls for inspiration!
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can pre-cook the filling and prepare the crust shapes up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook your choice of meat with taco seasoning, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, roll out and cut your pie crusts into ghost shapes, stacking them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the hand pies, brush with egg wash, and bake as directed. This way, you'll enjoy delicious, fun-filled meals with minimal effort on hectic nights!
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Pairing your delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies with the right sides can turn dinner into a feast bursting with flavors and textures.
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Creamy Guacamole: This velvety dip complements the savory filling of the pies perfectly, adding a fresh and rich contrast.
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Zesty Salsa: A classic pairing that provides a refreshing punch—choose a mild or spicy version tailored to your taste for a delightful kick.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Their satisfying crunch balances the flaky hand pies, making for a fun and interactive eating experience that everyone will enjoy.
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Spanish Rice: Fluffy and flavorful, it rounds out the meal beautifully, offering a heartwarming base that hugs the flavors of your hand pies.
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Corn Salad: A burst of sweetness and crunch, this salad brightens up the plate and adds a delightful freshness to each bite.
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Mixed Green Salad with Lime Vinaigrette: Light and zesty, the salad cleanses the palate and adds a nice refreshing balance to the richness of the pies.
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Margaritas: For an adult twist, pair your meal with sweet and tangy margaritas that echo the fiesta vibes and elevate the dining experience.
Serving these alongside your Ghost Taco Hand Pies not only creates a visually appealing spread but also ensures every bite is an adventure full of deliciousness!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose lean ground meats like beef, turkey, or chicken that are fresh and free from dark spots. If opting for a vegetarian filling, pick high-quality black beans or lentils that are firm and plump. When selecting vegetables, ensure they're vibrant in color and free from any softness or wilting. Fresh taco seasoning can elevate flavor; if using a store-bought option, check the expiration date!
What is the best way to store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Very! Baked hand pies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, place them in a sealed container in the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. Reheat them gently in the oven for that freshly baked taste!
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Absolutely! Unbaked Ghost Taco Hand Pies can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, assemble the pies, ensuring they’re well sealed, and place them on a baking sheet without touching. Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply cook them from frozen, adding an extra 3-5 minutes to the baking time!
What can I do if my pie crusts are too soft to cut?
Very! If you find your pie crusts becoming too soft during preparation, just chill them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This will firm them up, making them easier to cut and handle. If time allows, work with one crust at a time to keep the others cool.
Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize your Ghost Taco Hand Pies to fit various dietary needs. For those avoiding gluten, simply use gluten-free pie crusts and be mindful of your spices and other ingredients. For lactose intolerance, dairy-free cheese options work beautifully. Always double-check labels to ensure the ingredients meet specific dietary requirements.
How can I get creative with the fillings for my Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
The more the merrier! There are endless options to enrich your fillings. Try adding chopped jalapeños for heat, diced tomatoes for freshness, or even corn for sweetness. For a breakfast twist, substitute the meat with scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage. Don't shy away from experimenting—every filling brings a unique flavor profile to your hand pies!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies: A Fun Twist for Taco Lovers Everywhere
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat, adding your choice of lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in taco seasoning and any optional vegetables. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, ensuring everything is combined and heated through.
- While your filling is cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Roll out the defrosted pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using ghost-shaped cookie cutters, cut out the dough into fun shapes.
- Place half of the ghost-shaped cutouts onto your prepared baking sheets. Spoon the meat mixture onto each cutout, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese over the filling.
- Using the remaining pie crust cutouts, cut out eyes and mouths to decorate your Ghost Taco Hand Pies. Carefully place these on top, ensuring they fit nicely.
- To seal, use a fork to crimp the edges of each pie, ensuring a secure seal.
- In a small bowl, whisk together an egg with a splash of water. Lightly brush this mixture over each pie.
- Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake for 10-14 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow the Ghost Taco Hand Pies to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Serve warm with salsa or guacamole for dipping.
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