Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Go beyond basic with these Ghost Taco Hand Pies for your Halloween party or festive family dinner. These fun and surprisingly easy treats are perfect for all ages. Filled with delicious taco flavors and shaped like spooky ghosts, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve them with salsa or guacamole for a delightful dipping experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Spooky Fun: These hand pies add a festive touch to any Halloween celebration, making them a great conversation starter.
• Versatile Filling: Customize the filling with your favorite proteins and veggies, ensuring everyone can enjoy their own version.
• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
• Perfect for Dipping: Pair these pies with salsa or guacamole for an added layer of flavor that everyone will love.
• Great for Meal Prep: Whip up a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick snacks or meals during busy weeks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Ghost Taco Hand Pies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Medium skillet
• Pastry mat or counter surface
• Ghost-shaped cookie cutters
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even cooking and preventing pies from sticking during baking.
• Medium skillet: Ideal for browning the meat evenly, ensuring a flavorful filling.
• Ghost-shaped cookie cutters: These bring the fun theme to life, making your hand pies visually appealing.

Ingredients

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)

How to Make Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Filling

To make the taco filling, set a medium skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the ground beef and start to break it apart into crumbles. If using ground turkey or chicken, warm a drizzle of olive oil in the skillet first. Add taco seasoning and shredded carrot or pepper if using. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the meat is browned, continuing to break it up into small pieces as you go. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 3: Roll Out Pie Crusts

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

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

Arrange half of the cut ghost shapes on the pastry mat, leaving some space around each. Spoon a small amount of taco filling into the middle of each ghost, then sprinkle a bit of cheese on top.

Step 5: Cut Out Eyes and Mouths

Use anything small and round to cut out eyes and/or mouths from the remaining ghost shapes. I used the lid of a Crayola marker! Place one cut-out shape over each filled ghost on the baking sheets. Use the tines of a fork to gently seal all edges.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

Mix the egg with a splash of water or milk in a small bowl to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture on top of each mini pie to give them a golden finish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 10-14 minutes until tops are golden brown. Remove from oven, let cool briefly, then serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Ghost Taco Hand Pies are not just delicious; they are also versatile. You can serve them in various creative ways to delight your guests or family members. Whether it’s a Halloween party or a cozy family dinner, these hand pies will be the star of the meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Salsa: A classic pairing that adds a zesty kick! Choose your favorite variety—mild, medium, or spicy.
• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole complements the taco flavors perfectly.
• Sour Cream: For a cool contrast, serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side.

As Part of a Themed Platter

• Halloween Snack Board: Incorporate other spooky-themed snacks like spider-shaped cheese bites and pumpkin-shaped veggies.
• Taco Bar: Let guests create their own mini taco platter with toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and jalapeños alongside the hand pies.

With Beverages

• Margaritas: A classic Mexican drink that pairs well with tacos. Try serving frozen margaritas for a fun twist!
• Fruit Punch: A non-alcoholic option that is vibrant and refreshing, perfect for all ages.

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How to Perfect Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Creating perfect Ghost Taco Hand Pies is easy when you follow these helpful tips. Here’s how to ensure your hand pies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality meat for the best flavor in your filling.
• Don’t Overfill: Keep the filling amount moderate to prevent spills during baking. A tablespoon per pie is usually enough.
• Seal Well: Make sure to seal the edges properly with a fork to avoid any leakage while baking.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different spices or ingredients like black beans or corn for added texture and taste.
• Cool Before Serving: Allowing them to cool slightly will make them easier to handle and enhance the flavors as they settle.

Best Side Dishes for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

To complete your meal experience with Ghost Taco Hand Pies, consider pairing them with some delightful side dishes. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a great base alongside hand pies.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty complement that balances the flavors nicely.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter and lime adds sweetness to your plate.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa provide an extra layer of texture and flavor.
5. Spicy Slaw: A tangy slaw can give a refreshing crunch that goes well with the richness of the hand pies.
6. Avocado Salad: Light and creamy avocado salad enhances the overall meal while adding healthy fats.

Enjoy preparing and serving your Ghost Taco Hand Pies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ghost Taco Hand Pies can be a fun experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring the Filling Ratio – Using too much filling can lead to spills while baking. Stick to a small spoonful in the center of each ghost shape.
• Not Sealing Properly – Failing to seal the edges completely will cause your hand pies to open during baking. Use a fork to press down all around the edges.
• Using Cold Pie Crust – If your pie crust is too cold, it may crack when cutting shapes. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling out.
• Skipping the Egg Wash – Not brushing the tops with egg wash can result in pale, unappetizing pastries. Always brush for that golden color and shine.
• Overbaking – Baking for too long can dry out your hand pies. Keep an eye on them and take them out once they’re golden brown.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Ghost Taco Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Ghost Taco Hand Pies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on high for about 30-45 seconds; this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Ghost Taco Hand Pies?

Ghost Taco Hand Pies are savory pastries filled with taco-flavored meat and cheese shaped like ghosts, perfect for Halloween parties or festive dinners.

How do I customize Ghost Taco Hand Pies?

You can customize these hand pies by adding vegetables like corn or black beans or using different types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack.

Can I make these pies vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the meat with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth for added flavor.

How do I serve Ghost Taco Hand Pies?

Serve them warm with salsa or guacamole for dipping. They make a great appetizer or snack!

Final Thoughts

Ghost Taco Hand Pies are not only fun but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to get creative with your fillings and dips! Try them at your next gathering and enjoy the spooky delight!