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Ghost Taco Hand Pies

Delightful hand pies combining homemade pie crusts with a zesty taco filling, perfect for Halloween or family nights.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 44 minutes
Servings: 6 pieces
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Taco Filling
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey, or chicken) Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, this is the heart of your filling.
  • 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning This aromatic blend brings a burst of spices that elevate the meat to deliciousness.
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrot (optional) Sweet yet earthy, adding moisture and a bit of crunch.
  • 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper or baby spinach (optional) Colorful, vibrant, and healthful, they add a fresh note to your hand pies.
For the Hand Pies
  • 2 pie crusts defrosted but unbaked Buttery and flaky, these are the perfect envelopes for your filling.
  • 1/3 cup shredded Mexican cheese Melty and creamy, this cheese blend binds the delicious mixture together.
  • 1 egg (for brushing) This will give your hand pies a beautiful golden finish.
  • Salsa (for dipping) A zesty companion that enhances the flavor with freshness and tang.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) and break it apart with a spatula.
  2. If using turkey or chicken, drizzle a bit of olive oil into the skillet to help sauté the meat.
  3. Add the taco seasoning along with any shredded carrot or chopped bell peppers you desire.
  4. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the meat is fully browned, stirring frequently.
  5. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assembly
  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crusts until thin and even.
  3. Use ghost-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the shapes, making pairs for the top and bottom of each taco pie.
  4. Arrange half of the ghost shapes on your baking sheets and spoon a small amount of taco filling into the center of each.
  5. Sprinkle a bit of shredded cheese on top.
  6. Cut out eyes/mouths from the remaining ghost shapes and place them over each filled ghost.
  7. Seal the edges with the tines of a fork.
  8. Whisk the egg with a splash of water and brush it over the tops of the hand pies.
Baking
  1. Bake in the oven for 10-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
  2. Allow to cool for a minute or two before serving with salsa.

Notes

You can prepare the taco filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Feel free to customize fillings and add vegetables as per your preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.