Mini Taco Hand Pies Recipe

It all started on a busy weeknight, the kind where dinner inspiration was running on fumes. My family, always enthusiastic about Taco Tuesday (or any day ending in ‘y’ really), was clamoring for their favorite Mexican flavors. However, I was craving something a little different, something portable and fun. That’s when the idea of Mini Taco Hand Pies popped into my head. Could I transform the beloved taco into a convenient, handheld treat? The answer, as it turns out, was a resounding YES! These Mini Taco Hand Pies were an absolute hit. The flaky, golden crust encasing a savory, perfectly seasoned taco filling was pure delight. Even my pickiest eater devoured them, proclaiming them “way better than regular tacos!” They are incredibly easy to make, surprisingly versatile, and perfect for everything from a casual family dinner to a fun party appetizer. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive into how to make these little pockets of taco heaven.

Ingredients

Creating delicious Mini Taco Hand Pies starts with gathering the right ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; you can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Let’s break down each component and explore the best options for your taco hand pies.

For the Filling:

• 1 pound Ground Meat: The foundation of our taco filling is ground meat. Beef is the classic choice, offering a robust and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with taco seasoning. Opt for lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to minimize excess grease. However, don’t feel limited to beef! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent, lighter alternatives that still deliver fantastic flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using a plant-based ground meat substitute like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, or even finely diced and sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Each of these will create a delicious and satisfying filling. Remember to adjust cooking times slightly based on your choice of meat or meat alternative, ensuring it’s cooked through completely.
• 1 packet Taco Seasoning (or Homemade Equivalent): Taco seasoning is the magic ingredient that infuses our filling with that quintessential taco flavor. A standard packet of taco seasoning (around 1-1.25 ounces) works perfectly for this recipe. However, for those who prefer to control the spice level and ingredients, homemade taco seasoning is a fantastic option. You can easily find numerous recipes online, allowing you to customize the blend to your liking. Consider adjusting the amount of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create your perfect taco spice profile. Using homemade also allows you to avoid any added sodium or preservatives found in some store-bought packets.
• 1/2 cup Water (or Beef Broth for richer flavor): Liquid is crucial for creating a moist and flavorful taco filling. Water is the simplest and most readily available option, helping to dissolve the taco seasoning and create a slightly saucy consistency. For an extra layer of depth and richness, consider substituting water with beef broth. The broth will enhance the savory notes of the ground meat and taco seasoning, resulting in a more robust and flavorful filling. Chicken broth can be used if you are using ground chicken or turkey for a harmonious flavor pairing. For vegetarian options, vegetable broth works wonderfully.
• 1 (10 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (like Rotel), undrained: Diced tomatoes and green chilies add moisture, a touch of acidity, and a subtle kick of heat to the taco filling. Using a can of Rotel or a similar product provides a convenient way to incorporate both tomatoes and green chilies in one step. The undrained liquid from the can is essential for maintaining moisture in the filling and preventing it from becoming dry during baking. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for mild Rotel or simply use plain diced tomatoes and add a small amount of diced green bell pepper for a milder chili flavor. For those who love extra heat, consider using hot Rotel or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño to the filling.
• 1 cup Shredded Cheese: Cheese is an integral part of any taco experience, and it’s no different in our Mini Taco Hand Pies. Shredded cheese adds richness, creaminess, and that delightful cheesy pull when you bite into a hand pie. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for tacos, offering a sharp and tangy flavor that complements the savory filling. Monterey Jack cheese is another excellent option, known for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties, resulting in a gooey and delicious cheese pull. For a more complex flavor profile, consider using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend that typically includes cheeses like queso Oaxaca, asadero, and Chihuahua. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but shredding your own cheese from a block will often result in better melting and flavor, as it lacks the cellulose coating found in pre-shredded varieties.

For the Hand Pies:

• 2 boxes (14.1 ounces each) Refrigerated Pie Crusts (or Puff Pastry for a flakier crust): The crust is the vessel that holds our delicious taco filling and provides that satisfying handheld experience. Refrigerated pie crusts are incredibly convenient and readily available, making this recipe quick and easy. They provide a classic pie crust texture that is slightly flaky and tender. For those who prefer an even flakier and more buttery crust, puff pastry is an exceptional alternative. Puff pastry creates layers upon layers of delicate, buttery pastry that shatter with each bite, adding a luxurious element to the hand pies. Keep in mind that puff pastry can be slightly more delicate to work with than pie crust, especially in warmer temperatures, so ensure it stays cold while you are working with it. If using puff pastry, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly as it tends to brown faster than pie crust. Regardless of your choice, make sure the crust is cold before you start working with it for optimal results.
• 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash): An egg wash is a simple yet essential step that gives our Mini Taco Hand Pies that beautiful golden brown color and a glossy sheen. Beating an egg with a tablespoon of water or milk creates the egg wash. The proteins in the egg brown during baking, creating a visually appealing and slightly crisp crust. The egg wash also helps to seal the edges of the hand pies, preventing filling from leaking out during baking. For a vegan option, you can use plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) mixed with a touch of maple syrup or agave as a substitute egg wash, although the browning effect may be slightly less pronounced.

Optional Toppings (for serving):

• Salsa: Fresh salsa, pico de gallo, or your favorite jarred salsa adds a vibrant burst of flavor and freshness to the Mini Taco Hand Pies. The acidity of the tomatoes and onions in salsa cuts through the richness of the filling and cheese, creating a balanced and delicious bite.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy and cooling contrast to the savory and slightly spicy taco filling. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream, offering a similar tanginess with less fat and more protein.
• Guacamole or Avocado: Creamy guacamole or sliced avocado adds richness, healthy fats, and a smooth texture that complements the other toppings and the hand pies themselves.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that enhances the overall flavor profile and provides a pop of color.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like an extra kick of heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce is the perfect finishing touch.

Having all your ingredients prepped and ready will make the assembly process smooth and enjoyable. Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating these delightful Mini Taco Hand Pies.

Instructions

Crafting these Mini Taco Hand Pies is surprisingly straightforward, even for novice bakers. Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to create perfect, mouthwatering hand pies every time.

Getting Started: Preparing the Filling

1. Brown the Ground Meat: In a large skillet, place your ground meat of choice (beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative) over medium-high heat. Break up the meat with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink. For leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken, you may need to add a tablespoon of olive oil or cooking spray to the skillet to prevent sticking. If using a plant-based ground meat substitute, follow the package instructions for browning, as cooking times and methods may vary.
2. Drain Excess Grease (if using ground beef): If you are using ground beef, especially if it’s not extra lean, there will likely be some grease rendered out during the browning process. Carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet after the meat is cooked. This step is important to prevent the taco filling from becoming greasy and to ensure the hand pies are not soggy. You can tilt the skillet and use a spoon to scoop out the grease, or carefully pour the meat into a colander placed over a bowl to drain.
3. Add Taco Seasoning, Water (or Broth), and Diced Tomatoes: Return the skillet to medium heat. Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet (or your homemade seasoning blend) over the browned meat. Pour in the water (or beef broth for a richer flavor) and the undrained can of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
4. Simmer and Thicken the Filling: Stir everything together well to combine, ensuring the taco seasoning is evenly distributed and dissolved in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the filling simmer uncovered for about 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the filling has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The goal is to create a filling that is moist but not overly liquidy, as excess moisture can make the hand pies soggy. The simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency.
5. Stir in Shredded Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted and evenly distributed throughout the taco filling. The cheese will add creaminess and bind the filling together slightly. The heat from the filling will melt the cheese quickly.
6. Cool the Filling Slightly: Allow the taco filling to cool slightly before assembling the hand pies. This is important for two reasons: first, it makes the filling easier to handle and prevents it from scorching your hands. Second, it prevents the hot filling from melting the pie crust too quickly and making it difficult to work with. While the filling cools, you can prepare the pie crusts.

Assembling the Mini Taco Hand Pies

7. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the hand pies from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup a breeze.
8. Unroll Pie Crusts: Gently unroll one box of refrigerated pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. If using puff pastry, follow the package instructions for thawing and unfolding. Lightly flouring your work surface will prevent the pie crust from sticking.
9. Cut out Circles: Use a 4-inch round cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out circles from the pie crust. You should get approximately 6-8 circles from each pie crust, depending on how efficiently you cut. Reroll any scraps of pie crust to cut out additional circles until you have used up most of the dough. If you have extra scraps, you can bake them separately with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a quick treat.
10. Fill the Pie Crust Circles: Place a spoonful (about 2-3 tablespoons) of the cooled taco filling in the center of each pie crust circle. Do not overfill the circles, as this can make them difficult to seal and cause the filling to leak out during baking. Leave a small border around the edge of each circle for sealing.
11. Fold and Seal the Hand Pies: Fold one side of the pie crust circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Gently press the edges together to seal. For a decorative and secure seal, use a fork to crimp the edges of each hand pie. The fork will create a ridged pattern and ensure the edges are tightly sealed, preventing the filling from escaping during baking.
12. Place Hand Pies on Baking Sheets: Arrange the assembled Mini Taco Hand Pies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each hand pie to allow for even baking and air circulation.
13. Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and a tablespoon of water or milk to create the egg wash. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash using a pastry brush. Be sure to brush evenly for a consistent golden brown color. The egg wash will also add a slight shine to the finished hand pies.

Baking and Serving

14. Bake until Golden Brown: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and the crust is cooked through. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your pie crust. Keep an eye on the hand pies and check for doneness around 18 minutes. The crust should be golden brown and slightly puffed up.
15. Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the Mini Taco Hand Pies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth. Serve warm with your favorite taco toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro.

Following these detailed instructions will guide you through each step of creating these irresistible Mini Taco Hand Pies. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your Mini Taco Hand Pies can be helpful for meal planning and making informed dietary choices. Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and brands.

Serving Size: 1 Mini Taco Hand Pie

Approximate Calories per Serving: 250-350 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Protein: 10-15 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 5-8 grams
• Cholesterol: 40-60 mg
• Sodium: 300-500 mg
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 2-3 grams

Important Considerations:

• Ingredient Variations: Using leaner ground meat like turkey or chicken, reducing the amount of cheese, or opting for whole wheat pie crust can lower the calorie and fat content. Vegetarian versions using plant-based meat substitutes or lentils may have different macronutrient profiles.
• Portion Size: These are mini hand pies, but portion control is still important. Consuming multiple hand pies will increase your overall calorie and nutrient intake.
• Toppings: Adding toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and cheese will increase the calorie, fat, and sodium content. Choose toppings mindfully and in moderation.
• Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Homemade taco seasoning and pie crust allow for greater control over ingredients and sodium content compared to some store-bought options.

Disclaimer: This nutritional information is an estimate for general guidance only. For precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and amounts used in your recipe.

Preparation Time

The beauty of Mini Taco Hand Pies is that they are relatively quick to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation time:

Prep Time: 20-25 minutes

• This includes browning the ground meat, preparing the taco filling, cooling the filling slightly, unrolling and cutting the pie crusts, and assembling the hand pies. The exact prep time may vary depending on your knife skills and familiarity with the recipe. Having your ingredients prepped and organized beforehand can help streamline the process.

Cook Time: 18-22 minutes

• This is the time required for baking the Mini Taco Hand Pies in the oven until they are golden brown and cooked through. Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s important to monitor the hand pies and adjust baking time as needed.

Total Time: 38-47 minutes

• This is the sum of the prep time and cook time, representing the total time from start to finish to make a batch of Mini Taco Hand Pies.

Make-Ahead Options:

• Filling: The taco filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This can significantly reduce the prep time on the day you plan to bake the hand pies. Simply reheat the filling slightly before assembling the hand pies.
• Assembled Hand Pies (Unbaked): You can assemble the hand pies completely, brush them with egg wash, and then store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 4-6 hours. Cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. Bake them as directed when you are ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

These time estimations are approximate and can vary depending on individual cooking pace and kitchen setup. However, they provide a general idea of the time commitment involved in making these delicious Mini Taco Hand Pies.

How to Serve

Mini Taco Hand Pies are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for different occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Party Platter: Arrange the Mini Taco Hand Pies on a platter alongside bowls of salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese. This creates a visually appealing and interactive appetizer spread for parties and gatherings.
  • Dipping Station: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as salsa, ranch dressing, queso dip, or a spicy chipotle mayo. Guests can customize their dipping experience.
  • Miniature Bites: For smaller portions, cut the hand pies in half or quarters before serving as bite-sized appetizers.
• As a Main Course:
  • Family Dinner: Serve 2-3 Mini Taco Hand Pies per person as a fun and satisfying weeknight meal.
  • Side Salad: Pair the hand pies with a fresh and vibrant side salad, such as a Mexican-inspired salad with corn, black beans, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette, or a simple green salad.
  • Spanish Rice and Beans: Complement the hand pies with classic sides like Spanish rice and refried beans for a complete and flavorful Mexican-inspired meal.
  • Soup and Hand Pie Combo: Serve alongside a hearty soup like tortilla soup or black bean soup for a comforting and satisfying meal, especially during colder months.
• For Lunch Boxes or Picnics:
  • Portable Lunch: Mini Taco Hand Pies are perfect for packing in lunch boxes for kids or adults. They are easy to eat on the go and hold up well at room temperature for several hours.
  • Picnic Basket Staple: Include them in your picnic basket for a delicious and mess-free picnic food option. Pack toppings separately and assemble them just before eating if desired.
• Serving Temperature:
  • Warm: Mini Taco Hand Pies are best served warm, straight from the oven or slightly cooled. Warming them enhances the flavors and textures.
  • Room Temperature: They can also be enjoyed at room temperature, especially for picnics or packed lunches.
  • Reheating: Reheat leftover hand pies in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Microwaving can make them slightly soggy.

Garnishing Ideas:

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the hand pies for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Shredded Cheese: A light sprinkle of shredded cheese on top adds visual appeal and extra cheesy goodness.
• Diced Tomatoes and Green Onions: A garnish of diced tomatoes and sliced green onions adds freshness and a touch of color.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for squeezing fresh lime juice over the hand pies, adding a zesty and bright flavor.

By exploring these serving suggestions and garnishing ideas, you can elevate your Mini Taco Hand Pie experience and enjoy them in various settings and with different accompaniments.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Mini Taco Hand Pies are a resounding success every time, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overfill the Hand Pies: It’s tempting to pack as much filling as possible into each hand pie, but resist the urge to overfill them. Overfilling makes it difficult to seal the edges properly, leading to filling leakage during baking and potentially soggy hand pies. Stick to about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per hand pie and ensure you can easily fold over the crust and seal the edges. A slightly less filled hand pie is better than a messy, leaky one.
2. Keep the Pie Crust Cold: Working with cold pie crust is crucial for achieving a flaky and tender texture. Cold fat in the pie crust creates steam during baking, which results in those desirable flaky layers. Keep your refrigerated pie crusts in the refrigerator until you are ready to use them. If you are using puff pastry, it’s even more important to keep it cold, as it can become sticky and difficult to handle if it warms up too much. If your pie crust becomes too warm and sticky while working with it, pop it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
3. Customize Your Filling: While the classic ground beef and taco seasoning filling is delicious, don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your filling to your preferences. Experiment with different ground meats like turkey, chicken, or chorizo. Add other vegetables to the filling, such as diced bell peppers, onions, corn, or black beans. Adjust the spice level by using different types of taco seasoning or adding extra chili powder or hot sauce. You can even create sweet fillings for dessert hand pies using fruits or chocolate. The possibilities are endless!
4. Ensure Proper Sealing: Properly sealing the edges of the hand pies is essential to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking and to create a neat and visually appealing finished product. Press the edges firmly together after folding the pie crust over the filling. Using a fork to crimp the edges not only creates a decorative touch but also provides a more secure seal. If you notice any gaps or openings in the seal, pinch them closed before baking.
5. Bake until Golden Brown, Not Just Cooked: Baking the Mini Taco Hand Pies until they are a beautiful golden brown color is key to achieving a crispy and flavorful crust. Don’t underbake them, as the crust may be pale and doughy. Bake them for the recommended time, and then check for doneness by looking for a rich golden brown color on the top and bottom crust. If they are not quite golden brown, you can bake them for a few minutes longer, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. A well-baked, golden brown crust will enhance both the flavor and texture of your hand pies.

By following these additional tips, you can elevate your Mini Taco Hand Pie game and consistently create delicious and impressive results that will impress your family and friends.

FAQ Section

Here are five frequently asked questions about Mini Taco Hand Pies, along with helpful answers to guide you:

Q1: Can I make these Mini Taco Hand Pies ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! Mini Taco Hand Pies are excellent make-ahead appetizers or meals. You have a couple of options:

• Make the filling ahead: The taco filling can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it slightly before assembling the hand pies.
• Assemble and refrigerate unbaked: You can assemble the hand pies completely, brush them with egg wash, and then refrigerate them unbaked for up to 4-6 hours. Bake them as directed when you’re ready to serve. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
• Bake and freeze: Baked hand pies can be frozen for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Q2: Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?

A: Yes, you can definitely use puff pastry for a flakier and more buttery crust. Puff pastry creates a wonderfully light and airy hand pie. Keep in mind that puff pastry can be a bit more delicate to work with and tends to brown faster than pie crust. Follow the package instructions for thawing and handling puff pastry. You may need to slightly reduce the baking time when using puff pastry as it cooks and browns quicker. The result will be a more decadent and flaky hand pie.

Q3: Can I make these vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, easily! For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based ground meat substitute like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, or even a combination of sautéed and finely diced mushrooms, lentils, and black beans as the filling. Ensure your taco seasoning is vegetarian-friendly. To make them vegan, in addition to using a plant-based filling, you’ll need to use a vegan pie crust (many store-bought refrigerated pie crusts are vegan, but check the ingredients) and skip the cheese or use a vegan shredded cheese alternative. For the egg wash, you can use plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) mixed with a touch of maple syrup or agave as a substitute, although the browning effect may be slightly less pronounced.

Q4: How do I prevent the bottom of the hand pies from getting soggy?

A: Soggy bottoms can be avoided by following a few key steps:

• Drain excess grease from the meat: Make sure to drain off any excess grease after browning ground beef.
• Thicken the filling: Simmer the taco filling until the liquid reduces and it thickens slightly. A thicker filling is less likely to make the crust soggy.
• Don’t overfill: Overfilling can lead to filling leakage and sogginess.
• Bake on parchment paper: Parchment paper helps to lift the hand pies slightly off the baking sheet, promoting better air circulation and preventing the bottoms from becoming soggy.
• Bake until golden brown: Ensure the hand pies are baked until the crust is golden brown and cooked through, especially on the bottom.

Q5: What are some other filling variations I can try?

A: Get creative with your fillings! Here are a few delicious variation ideas:

• Chicken Fajita Filling: Use shredded cooked chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, fajita seasoning, and cheese.
• Pulled Pork BBQ Filling: Combine shredded pulled pork with your favorite BBQ sauce and shredded cheddar cheese.
• Black Bean and Corn Filling (Vegetarian/Vegan): Use a mixture of black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, salsa, and taco seasoning. Add vegan cheese for a vegan cheesy version.
• Spicy Chorizo and Potato Filling: Sauté chorizo sausage with diced potatoes, onions, and spices.
• Breakfast Hand Pies: Fill with scrambled eggs, sausage or bacon, cheese, and diced potatoes or peppers for a breakfast or brunch option.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite filling combinations. Mini Taco Hand Pies are a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity!

Print