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This spooky spaghetti and meatballs recipe is what Halloween dinner dreams are made of. Tender meatballs with melty mozzarella centers sit on a bed of vibrant, blood-red marinara and tangled spaghetti strands, all topped off with olive “eyeballs” that give each bite a playful, monstrous look. It’s silly, spooky, and absolutely delicious.

Perfect for a pre-trick-or-treat meal or a Halloween party centerpiece, this dish combines fun and comfort in one pot. The meatballs are juicy and cheesy inside, while the spaghetti soaks up all that rich sauce. And when those little eyes stare up from the plate? It’s impossible not to smile.

Why You’ll Love This Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs

This isn’t your average weeknight pasta. It brings the drama and the fun, especially for kids who love a bit of theatrical flair with dinner. The mozzarella-stuffed meatballs melt just enough to stay gooey in the center, and the olive eyes add a savory pop. It also scales easily if you’re feeding a crowd, and leftovers reheat like a charm.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies through the sauce and keep everyone well-fed before the sugar rush of Halloween night.

What Kind of Meat Should I Use for the Meatballs?

Ground beef is the most traditional and delivers juicy, tender meatballs. You can also mix in ground pork for extra flavor or use ground turkey for a leaner option. If you’re going vegetarian, plant-based meat alternatives will still work great here—just be sure they hold together well when rolled.

Ingredients for the Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs

Every part of this dish plays into the spooky theme while still delivering a cozy, comforting pasta night. The ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, but the results feel festive and imaginative.

• Ground beef
• Italian breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Mozzarella cheese (cut into cubes)
• Spaghetti noodles
• Marinara sauce
• Black olives (sliced into rounds)
• Green olives (stuffed, sliced into rounds)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Each meatball is packed with flavor thanks to the seasoned mix of ground beef and breadcrumbs, then elevated with a gooey mozzarella center. The olives create fun edible eyeballs, and the marinara provides that creepy red color perfect for Halloween night.

How To Make the Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs

Step 1: Make the Monster Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it or your meatballs might get tough.

Step 2: Stuff and Shape

Take a small scoop of the meat mixture and press a cube of mozzarella into the center. Roll into a ball, making sure the cheese is completely sealed inside. Repeat until all the meat is used.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs bake, boil your spaghetti noodles until al dente. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Heat the Sauce

Warm the marinara sauce in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs into the sauce and let simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Assemble the Monsters

Serve spaghetti on plates or a big platter. Top with marinara-drenched meatballs, and place black and green olive slices on each meatball to form the “eyes.”

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if using. Serve warm and watch the monsters disappear!

How to Serve and Store Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs

This recipe makes enough to serve 4 to 6 people generously, especially when paired with some simple sides. It’s a great option for a themed dinner party, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the meatballs and sauce gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, then toss with fresh pasta or reheat the noodles separately.

For freezing, store the meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe bag. Cooked spaghetti is best fresh, but you can freeze it if needed, then reheat with a splash of water.

What to Serve With Spooky Spaghetti?

Garlic Bread Fingers

Cut classic garlic bread into finger shapes and use almond slivers for creepy fingernails.

Roasted Broccoli Trees

The perfect green side that contrasts the red sauce and adds some nutrients to the table.

Mozzarella Eyeballs

Skewer mozzarella balls with a slice of olive for a quick appetizer that matches the meal.

Witch’s Brew Punch

Serve a vibrant green or purple drink to add whimsy to the meal.

Halloween Caprese Salad

Layer cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella in ghost or bat-shaped plates.

Carrot Jack-o’-Lantern Sticks

Slice carrots into jack-o’-lantern shapes with a paring knife for a fun veggie side.

Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls

These little savory bites make a perfect starter while the spaghetti finishes.

Want More Pasta Ideas for Festive Nights?

If this spooky spaghetti got you inspired, try one of these comforting and creative pasta favorites:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a creamy, rich twist.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for a decadent, earthy experience.
• Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce if you want spice and slurp.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta when you crave bold flavor with minimal prep.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for buttery richness and comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

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

Did you give your meatballs two eyes or go all out with three? Maybe yours had a spicy twist? Let me know in the comments how yours turned out!

And if you’re hungry for more creative seasonal recipes, check out Luna Meals on Pinterest for fun, easy meals that wow: Luna Meals on Pinterest

Conclusion

Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs brings the spirit of Halloween straight to the dinner table. It’s equal parts fun and flavorful, and while it’s ideal for spooky season, don’t be surprised if the kids start asking for “monster pasta” year-round. Embrace the creativity, enjoy the comfort, and let your dinner plate be the canvas for some kitchen fun.

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