As I pulled open my cupboard in search of a fun weeknight dinner idea, a lightbulb went off in my head: why not make Ghost Taco Hand Pies? These adorable little treats not only look delightful, but they come with a big bonus—they’re quick to assemble and perfect for the entire family. With just a handful of simple ingredients like ground beef, taco seasoning, and shredded cheese, you’ll whip up a crowd-pleasing meal in no time. Plus, the playful ghost shapes add a dash of whimsy, making them an ideal option for both cozy dinners and festive gatherings. Who wouldn’t want to dive into these charming hand pies? Ready to treat yourself and your loved ones? Let’s get cooking!
Why Are Ghost Taco Hand Pies So Fun?
Unique Experience: These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are not just a meal; they're an exciting, whimsical treat that turns dinner into a celebration.
Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can have a delicious dinner ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Options: Customize your fillings easily! Try adding ingredients like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. They’re as versatile as your imagination—just like with Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa for those craving tropical flavors.
Kid-Friendly Fun: The ghost shapes and dipping salsa make these hand pies a hit with children and adults alike. They’re perfect for festive occasions and everyday fun.
Comforting Flavors: Packed with savory taco fillings and gooey cheese, these pies provide the comforting taste of home-cooked food you can’t resist.
Make mealtime memorable with these delightful hand pies!
Ghost Taco Hand Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken – Choose your favorite protein for a flavorful filling.
• Taco seasoning – This blend infuses the meat with that essential taco flavor.
• Shredded carrot (optional) – Adds a touch of sweetness and enhances nutrition.
• Chopped bell pepper or baby spinach (optional) – Burst of color and added vitamins to your hand pies.
For the Crust
• Pie crusts – Use defrosted but unbaked crusts for a flaky, delicious outer layer.
For the Topping
• Shredded Mexican cheese – Melts beautifully inside the pie for that gooey goodness.
• Egg (for brushing) – Gives the hand pies a golden finish and adds a lovely shine.
For Serving
• Salsa – Perfect for dipping and adds an extra kick to your savory ghost taco hand pies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Set a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of your chosen ground meat and break it apart into crumbles with a spatula. For ground turkey or chicken, warm a drizzle of olive oil first. Cook for about 5-6 minutes or until the meat is browned, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and transfer into a bowl, setting it aside.
Step 2: Season and Combine
Add 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning to the cooked meat, along with optional shredded carrot and chopped bell pepper or baby spinach if desired. Mix everything well and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. The filling should be fragrant and well-combined; set it aside to cool while you prep the crusts.
Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Sheets
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Meanwhile, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, ensuring they’re ready for the assembled Ghost Taco Hand Pies. This will help achieve that perfect golden finish and easy clean-up once they’re baked.
Step 4: Roll Out the Pie Crusts
On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the two defrosted pie crusts until they are about ⅛ inch thick. Use your ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out an equal number of ghost shapes, ensuring you have enough for tops and bottoms. Gather the scraps, re-roll, and cut additional shapes as needed to use every bit of dough.
Step 5: Fill the Hand Pies
Arrange half of the ghost shapes on the lined baking sheets, leaving space around each for expansion. Spoon a small amount of the prepared taco filling into the center of each ghost, then sprinkle with a bit of shredded Mexican cheese. This will create a deliciously gooey center in each Ghost Taco Hand Pie.
Step 6: Cover and Seal
Take the remaining ghost shapes and, using a small round object, cut out eyes and/or a mouth for the ghosts. Place these over the filled ghosts, gently pressing the edges together. Use the tines of a fork to seal them securely, ensuring no filling spills out during baking. This step adds to the whimsical look and helps keep the delicious filling inside.
Step 7: Egg Wash for Shine
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg with a splash of water or milk to create an egg wash. Carefully brush this mixture over the tops of each mini hand pie to give them a beautiful golden color when baked. The egg wash also helps the shapes look extra charming for your festive occasion.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake for 10-14 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and flaky. Watch closely as they bake, as the perfect visual cue is a lovely golden hue that indicates a delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pie is ready to be enjoyed.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Ghost Taco Hand Pies from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two on the baking sheets. This will make them easier to handle. Serve warm with salsa on the side for dipping, transforming your cozy dinner into a festive and fun meal that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Ghost Taco Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the taco filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. For ultimate convenience, cut out the ghost shapes from the pie crusts and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, simply fill the ghost cutouts, seal them up, and bake according to the recipe. This ensures your hand pies remain just as delicious, with a fresh and flaky crust every time. Enjoy the ease of preparing ahead and savoring a fun, hearty meal!
Expert Tips for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
• Choose Your Protein: Opt for lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken for a healthier filling that satisfies.
• Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overstuff your hand pies, as this can cause them to burst during baking. A tablespoon of filling is usually sufficient.
• Seal Well: Ensure to seal the edges of your pies tightly using a fork to avoid any leakage of the tasty filling while they bake.
• Customize Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the taco seasoning to your taste or even add a hint of spice with some diced jalapeños for a kick!
• Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on your Ghost Taco Hand Pies; when they turn golden brown, they’re ready to be devoured!
• Serve Warm: These hand pies taste best fresh out of the oven, so serve them warm with a side of salsa for dipping.
What to Serve with Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Elevate your cozy dinner experience with these delightful flavors that perfectly complement your playful ghostly pies.
-
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole's smooth texture pairs wonderfully with the flaky hand pies for the ultimate comfort food experience.
-
Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices and herbs adds a wonderful heartiness. Each scoop is bursting with flavor, making it a satisfying sidekick.
-
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad brings brightness with its charred corn, creaminess, and a hint of lime, balancing the savory hand pies beautifully.
-
Black Bean Salad: A colorful mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers adds freshness and protein, plus it’s a great way to invigorate your meal.
-
Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips alongside a zesty salsa make for a fun, crunchy snack. They’re perfect for dipping and mingling with the flavors of your hand pies.
-
Margaritas: A refreshing margarita, whether classic or fruit-flavored, brings a hint of festivity and balances the richness of the filling with its tangy sweetness.
-
Roasted Veggies: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables offers earthy flavors and textures. Their natural sweetness enhances the taste of the hand pies, creating a wholesome meal.
-
Chili: A warm bowl of chili adds depth and warmth to your dining experience, providing a spiced kick that pairs beautifully with your Ghost Taco Hand Pies.
-
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: For dessert, these sweet and salty treats create a delightful ending to your meal. Their crunch is reminiscent of the hand pies' crust, making for a cohesive experience.
How to Store and Freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies
Fridge: Keep leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked filled pies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat baked hand pies, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy with fresh salsa on the side!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to make these Ghost Taco Hand Pies uniquely yours with these fun twists and substitutions!
-
Vegetarian: Swap out the meat for a mixture of black beans and corn. It’s hearty and packed with flavor.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts for a delicious alternative that anyone can enjoy without sacrificing taste.
-
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into your filling for those who love a little heat. Remember, a little spice goes a long way!
-
Herb Infusion: Toss in some chopped fresh cilantro or parsley to the filling for an aromatic boost that brightens up the flavors.
-
Cheesy Delight: Mix in different types of cheese, like pepper jack or feta, for a melty surprise with every bite. Combining flavors can create unforgettable taste experiences.
-
Sweet Satisfaction: Incorporate a spoonful of salsa verde for a zesty twist or try mixing in a touch of apple or pineapple for sweetness!
-
Savory Stuffing: Add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to your filling for a delightful texture contrast and extra nutrition. These veggie additions can elevate your pies to gourmet status.
-
Breakfast Version: Substitute the taco seasoning and ground meat with scrambled eggs and your choice of breakfast meat, like sausage or bacon. Perfect for a brunch treat!
Explore these variations and let your creativity shine, embracing flavors that make your meals memorable, just like a satisfying evening with Crock Pot Birria Tacos or a sweet treat like Chocolate Whoopie Pies for dessert! Happy cooking!
Ghost Taco Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my filling?
Absolutely! When selecting your protein, opt for fresh, lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken with no discoloration. If using veggies, look for vibrant colors—bell peppers should be firm, while spinach should be bright green without wilting.
What’s the best way to store leftover Ghost Taco Hand Pies?
Very simple! Keep your leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, pop them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F to restore their delightful crispiness!
Can I freeze Ghost Taco Hand Pies? If so, how?
Yes, you can! For unbaked pies, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, there's no need to thaw—just bake directly from the freezer for a couple of extra minutes!
What if my hand pies leak during baking?
Not to worry! If you see that some of your Ghost Taco Hand Pies start to leak, it’s likely because they were overstuffed. For future batches, be sure to use just 1 tablespoon of filling per pie, and seal them well with a fork to prevent any fillings from escaping while they cook.
Can I make these Ghost Taco Hand Pies gluten-free?
Of course! Substitute regular pie crusts with gluten-free ones available at most grocery stores. Just ensure you check the labels for any other potential allergens. Your delicious, friendly hand pies will be perfect for everyone to enjoy!
Are there any dietary considerations for serving these hand pies to pets?
It’s best to avoid giving your pets food that includes taco seasoning or cheese, as these can be harmful to them. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends, and keep the Ghost Taco Hand Pies just for your family to indulge!
Delicious Ghost Taco Hand Pies That Will Haunt Your Taste Buds
Equipment
- skillet
- baking sheets
- cookie cutters
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey/chicken
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded carrot optional
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper or baby spinach optional
For the Crust
- 2 crusts pie crusts defrosted but unbaked
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
- 1 egg egg for brushing
For Serving
- 1 cup salsa
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ghost Taco Hand Pies
- Brown the meat in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned, then set aside.
- Add taco seasoning, shredded carrot, and bell pepper or spinach to the cooked meat and mix. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out crusts to ⅛ inch thick and cut out ghost shapes.
- Fill half of the ghost shapes with taco filling and shredded cheese.
- Cover with remaining ghost shapes, seal edges with a fork after cutting out eyes/mouth.
- Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 10-14 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool briefly and serve warm with salsa.
Leave a Reply