Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

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Whether you’re planning a ghoulish Halloween dinner or just want to have fun in the kitchen, this Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is a guaranteed showstopper. Spooky, savory, and satisfyingly delicious, this dish mixes the comfort of classic spaghetti with a creepy twist that kids and adults will adore.

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Imagine twirling your fork through rich, garlicky marinara sauce-drenched pasta only to be met with the eerie gaze of a “mozzarella eyeball” staring back at you. It sounds gruesome, but it tastes heavenly. With its bold Italian flavors and playful presentation, this recipe is a total win for themed parties or a fright-night family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

This recipe isn’t just for looks. The spaghetti is cooked to al dente perfection and smothered in a homemade (or store-bought, we don’t judge!) marinara sauce that’s rich and garlicky. The mozzarella eyeballs are made with soft bocconcini cheese, “pupils” made from olives, and a drizzle of balsamic or olive oil to add realism and depth of flavor.

  • It’s a fun way to get kids excited about dinner.
  • Perfect centerpiece for your Halloween spread.
  • Easily made vegetarian.
  • Customizable with your favorite pasta or sauces.
  • Looks creepy, tastes cozy.

What Kind of Pasta and Mozzarella Should I Use?

For maximum effect, spaghetti is your best bet. It mimics a tangle of “bloody veins” beautifully, especially once coated in marinara. However, you can switch it up with bucatini or linguine for a similar look.

For the eyeballs, bocconcini or mozzarella pearls are ideal. They’re small, round, and soft enough to stick olives into easily. If using larger mozzarella balls, just cut them in half and press the olive slice into the flat side.


Ingredients for the Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

Each ingredient plays a role in bringing the creepy deliciousness to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Spaghetti: The foundation of the dish; choose a long pasta like spaghetti or linguine to create that tangled, worm-like effect.
  • Marinara Sauce: Use a homemade version or your favorite store-bought one. It’s the “blood” in this bloody spaghetti.
  • Olive Oil & Garlic: For sauteing and adding flavor depth to the sauce.
  • Bocconcini Mozzarella Balls: These are your eyeballs. Their size and shape make them ideal.
  • Black or Green Olives: Sliced into rings to form the “pupil” for each eyeball.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of green and freshness.
  • Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavor of the sauce and pasta.

How To Make the Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Bloody Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in marinara sauce, stir, and let simmer for 10 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Create the Eyeballs

While the sauce simmers, prepare your eyeballs. Slice black or green olives into rings. Press one olive ring into the center of each bocconcini ball to resemble a pupil. For extra gore, drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar around the olive.

Step 4: Combine and Decorate

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Transfer to a serving dish or leave it in the skillet for rustic presentation. Nestle the mozzarella eyeballs into the spaghetti, spacing them out for maximum visual impact.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch, then serve hot and let the creepy compliments roll in.


Serving and Storing Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

This dish feeds around 4 to 6 people, making it a great option for a small party or family dinner.

  • To Serve: Present the dish in a dark or black serving dish for extra Halloween vibes. Pair with eerie appetizers or themed cocktails to complete the look.
  • To Store: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over the stovetop, and if needed, add a splash of water or extra sauce to loosen it up. Store the mozzarella eyeballs separately for best presentation.

What to Serve With Bloody Spaghetti?

Creepy Caprese Skewers

Skewer mini mozzarella balls, grape tomatoes, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve alongside for a color-matching creepy side.

Garlic Bread Fingers

Shape breadsticks into finger-like forms and add sliced almonds for nails. Brush with garlic butter and bake until golden.

Roasted Bone Marrow (for adults)

For something really spooky, roasted bone marrow with crusty bread makes a rich and dramatic pairing.

Caesar Salad with “Wormy” Croutons

Toss Caesar salad with spiral-shaped croutons or thin fried noodles to give it a creepy-crawly vibe.

Witch’s Brew Punch

Whip up a green or purple punch with floating “eyeball” lychees for a spooky drink.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o-Lanterns

Carve orange bell peppers into faces and stuff with grains or veggies for a spooky, healthy side.

Spider Deviled Eggs

Classic deviled eggs topped with olive “spiders” add protein and another festive touch.


Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re into playful and comforting pasta dishes like this one, check these out next:

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest Halloween or dinner ideas board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did your kids scream (with delight)? Did you try a spicy marinara or go with something mild?

I always love hearing your twists and creations. Got questions? Ask away and let’s help each other make Halloween delicious.

Explore creepily creative dinners, desserts, and more on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and keep the spooky fun coming!

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Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Ready to freak out your family or Halloween guests with a dish that *stares back* at them? This Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is creepy, creative, and loaded with comforting Italian flavors. Perfect for themed parties or spooky weeknight dinners, it’s a fun and easy recipe that turns classic pasta night into a delicious fright. Whether you’re after Halloween dinner ideas, fun food for kids, or a quick pasta dish with a twist, this one’s for you!


Ingredients

16 oz spaghetti

2 cups marinara sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

12 bocconcini mozzarella balls

6 black or green olives, sliced into rings

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Slice olives into rings. Press a ring into each mozzarella ball to form an eyeball.

5. Add spaghetti to the sauce and toss until coated evenly.

6. Transfer to a serving dish or skillet and nestle the mozzarella eyeballs into the pasta.

7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Make sure the mozzarella balls are dry before adding the olive slices so they stick well.

Use extra marinara sauce if preparing ahead to keep it from drying out on reheating.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: halloween pasta, spooky dinner, mozzarella eyeballs, easy pasta dinner, halloween party food

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