Description

Looking for a Halloween dinner idea that’s spooky, silly, and absolutely delicious? Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs is the perfect blend of fun and flavor. With juicy homemade meatballs covered in melted mozzarella and olive “eyes,” this playful twist on classic spaghetti is perfect for kids and adults alike. Whether you need quick dinner ideas for a themed party or are looking for food ideas to make mealtime exciting, this easy recipe delivers a creative, comforting meal with a spooky flair. It’s great for parties, easy dinners, or just a fun weekend activity. Think: quick comfort food meets festive fun.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1/3 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp milk

1 tbsp olive oil (for baking or frying)

12 oz spaghetti

1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cups marinara or tomato basil pasta sauce

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 small onion, finely diced

1 garlic clove, minced (optional)

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

12–14 sliced black olives

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix just until combined.

2. Form into 8 round meatballs, slightly flatten the bottoms. Place on greased baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 18–20 mins or pan-fry until cooked through.

3. Boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil.

4. In a saucepan, sauté diced onion in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer 8–10 minutes.

5. Arrange spaghetti on a serving platter. Place cooked meatballs on top.

6. Add mozzarella on each meatball. Broil 2–3 mins until cheese melts and drips.

7. Place two olive slices on each meatball to make monster eyes. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh shredded mozzarella for that perfect monster-drip cheese effect.

Don’t overmix your meatball mixture—light mixing makes them tender.

Add olive eyes after cheese melts for better positioning and spooky look.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked + Boiled
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 620
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg