why make this recipe
Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is a fun and spooky dish perfect for Halloween or any time you want to add a creepy twist to dinner. This recipe combines the classic taste of spaghetti with a frightening presentation that will delight both kids and adults. It’s a great way to make mealtime exciting and can be a conversation starter at any gathering. Plus, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients!
how to make Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs
Ingredients:
For the Bloody Spaghetti:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) crushed tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
For the Mozzarella Eyeballs:
- 12 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 6 black olives (pitted and sliced in half)
- A few drops of balsamic glaze or food-safe black food coloring (optional)
Directions:
Boil the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package instructions (typically 8–10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Bloody Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir well and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The result should be thick and vividly red.
Prepare the Mozzarella Eyeballs: While the sauce simmers, press a slice of black olive into the center of each mozzarella ball. For extra creepy effect, add a small dot of balsamic glaze or black food coloring to resemble the pupil. If you want “bloodshot” eyes, you can use a toothpick dipped in tomato sauce to draw red streaks on the mozzarella.
Assemble: Toss the cooked spaghetti in the bloody sauce until well coated. Plate the spaghetti, then place the mozzarella eyeballs on top, nestling them into the noodles so they appear to be staring back at your guests. Optional: Serve with extra Halloween touches like garlic “fingers” and demon-gnawed crusty bread.
how to serve Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs
Serve the Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs in a large bowl or on individual plates. You can add decorative elements like plastic spiders or fake cobwebs around the serving dish to enhance the Halloween theme. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs
You can store leftover Bloody Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce to prevent it from drying out. The mozzarella eyeballs may not look as fresh after storage, so it’s best to prepare them fresh when serving.
tips to make Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red chili flakes.
- For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream to the tomato sauce before serving.
- Create more Halloween fun by adding gummy worms or other spooky edibles on the plate for decoration.
variation
You can use different types of pasta like penne or fusilli for a fun twist. Additionally, you can replace mozzarella with other cheeses like feta for a different flavor. For vegans, substitute mozzarella with plant-based cheese options.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Cook the spaghetti fresh just before serving for the best texture.
2. Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes optional red chili flakes, so you can adjust the spice level according to your taste by omitting them.
3. Can I use different ingredients for the eyeballs?
Yes, you can get creative! Use different cheeses or even chocolate balls with a bit of jam for a dessert version if you want to have some fun without the savory elements.
Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package instructions (typically 8–10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Stir well and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The result should be thick and vividly red.
- While the sauce simmers, press a slice of black olive into the center of each mozzarella ball.
- For an extra creepy effect, add a small dot of balsamic glaze or black food coloring to resemble the pupil.
- If you want 'bloodshot' eyes, you can use a toothpick dipped in tomato sauce to draw red streaks on the mozzarella.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti in the bloody sauce until well coated.
- Plate the spaghetti, then place the mozzarella eyeballs on top, nestling them into the noodles so they appear to be staring back at your guests.
- Optional: Serve with extra Halloween touches like garlic 'fingers' and demon-gnawed crusty bread.