Looking for a spooky but tasty Halloween dinner idea? This Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is the ultimate creepy-cute meal! Tender spaghetti drenched in rich red tomato sauce is topped with mozzarella “eyeballs” made from olives and cheese.
It’s fun to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to get gasps (and giggles) from guests of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or planning a themed family night, this festive pasta will be the star of your table.
🍝 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beginner-friendly: Simple ingredients and easy steps.
- Creepy-fun: Those mozzarella eyeballs are surprisingly realistic!
- Customizable: Add meat, veggies, or spice to your taste.
- Perfect for parties: Easy to scale up for a crowd.
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need
Essentials
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 12 mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini)
- 6 black olives, halved
Optional Add-Ons
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Balsamic glaze or red food coloring for “bloody” effects
Substitutions
- Use store-bought pasta sauce to save time.
- Swap crushed tomatoes for tomato puree if you like smoother texture.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the “Bloody” Sauce
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion for 3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
Simmer gently for 15 minutes until thick and flavorful.
Step 3: Create Mozzarella Eyeballs
Press halved black olives into the mozzarella balls to form “eyeballs.” For an extra spooky look, add a small dot of balsamic glaze or red food coloring in the center.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce until evenly coated. Plate and top with mozzarella eyeballs. Garnish with herbs or parmesan and serve immediately.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking pasta: Always cook to al dente; it’ll soften slightly in the sauce.
- Skipping simmer time: Those 15 minutes deepen the sauce flavor.
- Forgetting seasoning: Taste and adjust before serving.
🧀 Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Garlic Bread “Fingers”: Cut breadsticks into finger shapes with almond “nails.”
- Green Side Salad: Light vinaigrette helps balance the rich sauce.
- Halloween Drinks: Serve with red “vampire punch” or pomegranate mocktails.
- Wine Pairing: Try Chianti or Merlot for a spooky-elegant touch.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips
- Use fresh herbs when possible for brighter flavor.
- Blend your sauce for a smoother, restaurant-style texture.
- Want protein? Add sautéed ground beef or plant-based crumbles.
- Double the recipe for a Halloween party spread.
🕸️ Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just reheat when serving.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! It’s naturally vegetarian and easy to make vegan with plant-based cheese.
Can I use fresh tomatoes?
Yes — use about 2 lbs peeled and chopped tomatoes instead of canned.
🎃 Conclusion
That’s it — your Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is ready to serve!
It’s creepy, cozy, and surprisingly comforting — the perfect mix of festive fun and delicious Italian flavor. Make it your new Halloween tradition, and don’t forget to have fun decorating those spooky eyeballs.
📸 Show off your creation! Share your Bloody Spaghetti photos on Pinterest or tag us on Instagram — we’d love to see your scary-cute plates!
