Looking for a fun and spooky dinner idea for Halloween? Halloween spaghetti with meatballs made to look like eyeballs is a great way to bring some creepy fun to your table. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and adds a playful twist to a classic meal.
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This dish uses meatballs topped with cheese and olives to create eyeballs, served over spaghetti tossed in a rich tomato sauce. The look is perfect for Halloween parties or a festive family dinner that feels special without taking too much time to prepare.
You’ll enjoy how simple it is to turn regular pasta and meatballs into a memorable Halloween meal your guests will talk about. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some homemade goodness on a night usually reserved for sweets.
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How To Make Halloween Spaghetti With Meatballs For Eyeballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground hamburger (ground beef)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 6–8 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or slices of mozzarella cheese
- 6–8 black olive slices (for the “pupils”)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground hamburger, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into meatballs about 1½ inches wide.
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Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
While the meatballs cook, prepare the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and toss with the marinara sauce in a large pot to keep warm.
When the meatballs are done, top each one with a small mozzarella ball or slice. Return them to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese starts to melt slightly.
Press a black olive slice into the center of each melted mozzarella piece to create the “eyeball” look.
Spoon the spaghetti and sauce onto plates, then place the eyeball meatballs on top so they peek out from the noodles. Sprinkle with parsley if desired and serve warm.
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Tips For A Spooky Presentation
To make your Halloween spaghetti with meatball eyeballs really stand out, focus on details that add fun and creepiness. Using creative garnishes and thoughtful serving ideas can create the perfect eerie atmosphere.
Creative Garnishes
Try using black olives or sliced green olives on top of your meatballs to create realistic eyeball pupils. You can also add small cuts of red bell pepper around the meatballs to look like blood vessels or veins.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a touch of green that looks like slimy “monster hair” around the spaghetti. If you want an extra spooky look, sprinkle some grated parmesan on top to mimic cobwebs.
Using colorful, edible decorations like small cherry tomatoes or bits of roasted red peppers can add more color contrast and creepiness to your dish. Don’t forget to shape mozzarella balls with olives inserted as additional eyeballs to scatter across the plate.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve your spooky spaghetti on a black or dark-colored plate to make the colors pop and highlight the eyeball effect. You can also line your serving dishes with lettuce leaves or use a rustic wooden bowl for a creepy vibe.
Consider placing small, fake plastic spiders or Halloween-themed picks around the plate for added fun. Use themed napkins and cups nearby to extend the eerie experience.
Keep a warm sauce on the side so each guest can add extra “blood-red” tomato sauce if they want more flavor and color. Serve with garlic bread shaped like bones or fingers to keep your whole meal spooky and tasty.
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