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-to-make treats are perfect for sharing with friends and family. The unique ghost-shaped design adds a playful touch, making them a standout addition to any gathering. Serve them warm with salsa or guacamole for delicious dipping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun Presentation: The ghost shapes make these hand pies visually appealing and perfect for Halloween-themed parties.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have these tasty treats ready in no time, making it a great recipe for all skill levels.
• Flavorful Filling: Packed with seasoned ground beef and cheese, each bite is bursting with flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Options: Customize your filling by adding vegetables or switching up the meat according to your preference.
• Perfect for Sharing: These mini hand pies are ideal for appetizers or snacks at social gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Ghost Taco Hand Pies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cookie cutters
• Pastry mat or rolling pin
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for cooking the beef mixture evenly, ensuring that it’s flavorful and properly cooked.
• Cookie Cutters: The ghost-shaped cutters add a festive flair to your hand pies, making them fun and attractive.
• Baking Sheets: Necessary for baking the hand pies to perfection while allowing even heat distribution.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey, or chicken)
• 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup shredded carrot (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper or baby spinach (optional)

For the Hand Pies

• 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 along with shredded carrot or bell pepper if using.
* Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the meat is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as you go. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

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

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.
* Ensure you have an even number of shapes—one for the top and one for each bottom of the taco pie.
* Gather any scraps and roll them out again until all dough is used.

Step 4: Assemble the Ghost Shapes

Arrange half of the cut ghost shapes on your pastry mat, leaving space around each. Spoon a small amount of taco filling into each ghost’s center.
* Sprinkle a bit of cheese over each filling.

Step 5: Create Faces on Your Ghosts

Use anything small and round to cut out eyes and/or mouths from the remaining ghost shapes.
* Place these cut-out shapes over each filled ghost on the baking sheets.
* Use the tines of a fork to gently seal all edges together.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

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

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 10-14 minutes until tops are golden brown. Remove from oven, allow them to cool slightly, then serve warm with salsa or guacamole for dipping. Enjoy!

How to Serve Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Ghost Taco Hand Pies are a playful twist on traditional tacos and make for a great party snack or festive appetizer. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will delight your guests.

With Dipping Sauces

• Salsa: A classic choice, salsa adds a fresh and zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory filling.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole complements the crunch of the hand pies, providing a rich contrast.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can help balance the spices in the filling and add a cool, creamy texture.

As Part of a Themed Platter

• Halloween Snack Board: Arrange your Ghost Taco Hand Pies alongside other spooky snacks like black olives shaped as spiders and veggie sticks for a fun presentation.
• Mini Tacos: Include small traditional tacos alongside your hand pies to give guests different taco experiences.

Accompanied by Drinks

• Fruit Punch: A sweet and fruity punch can be a refreshing beverage option that complements the savory hand pies.
• Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, serve sparkling water with lime wedges to cleanse the palate between bites.

Best Side Dishes for Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Ghost Taco Hand Pies can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement these tasty treats well.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A mix of corn, lime, cheese, and spices creates a vibrant side that enhances the flavors of the hand pies.
2. Spicy Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and a kick of spice that pairs beautifully with the hand pies.
3. Chips and Salsa: A classic combo; crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa offer an additional texture contrast.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can refresh your palate while complementing the savory flavors of the ghost pies.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances out the richness of the hand pies.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients, making for a wholesome side dish choice.
7. Queso Dip: Creamy queso dip serves as another excellent dipping option alongside salsa, adding cheesy goodness to your meal.
8. Cilantro Lime Rice: This flavorful rice dish brings freshness and complements Mexican flavors wonderfully!

These sides will not only enhance your meal but also make it more festive! Enjoy making this spooky treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ghost Taco Hand Pies can be fun, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the egg wash: Not brushing the tops with egg wash can lead to pale, unappetizing hand pies. Always apply an egg wash for a golden finish.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst while baking. Use just enough filling to seal without overflow.
• Not sealing properly: Failing to seal the edges can result in leaks during baking. Use a fork to firmly press and seal all edges before cooking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the hand pies too soon can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool slightly for easier serving.
• Using overly cold pie crust: If the pie crust is too cold, it may crack when rolling out. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• These hand pies will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ghost Taco Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Ghost Taco Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ghost Taco Hand Pies.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even lamb based on your preference.

How do I customize my fillings?

Feel free to add your choice of vegetables or beans for added flavor and nutrition. Just keep the total filling amount similar.

How do I make these vegetarian?

Simply replace the meat with a mixture of beans, corn, and additional veggies. Season well with taco seasoning for flavor.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to bake.

What sauces pair well with Ghost Taco Hand Pies?

Salsa and guacamole are perfect dips! You could also try sour cream or a spicy aioli if you like extra zest.

Final Thoughts

These Ghost Taco Hand Pies are delightful and versatile treats perfect for any gathering or festive occasion. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, everyone will enjoy these fun snacks. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and dipping sauces!