Name: Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti noodles; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz / 425 g); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional); 12 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine); 6 pieces black olives (pitted and sliced in half); 1 few drops balsamic glaze or food-safe black food coloring (optional)

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A Spooky Delight: Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

There’s something undeniably fun about serving up a dish that’s both delicious and delightfully creepy, especially around Halloween! I first encountered Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs at a themed dinner party, and it quickly became a go-to recipe for any spooky gathering. The vibrant, blood-red sauce combined with cute (yet slightly eerie) mozzarella eyeballs creates a dramatic presentation that elicits gasps and giggles alike. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and festive flair that not only tricks the eye but also treats the palate.

What Makes This Dish a Must-Try

If you’re on the fence about whether to give this recipe a whirl, let me share a few good reasons to try it out. This Bloody Spaghetti is quick to whip up, perfect for a busy weeknight, or even a festive family gathering. The combination of spaghetti and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce is a crowd-pleaser, while the mozzarella eyeballs add that unique twist that makes your meal unforgettable.

“This dish was a hit at our Halloween party—everyone loved the taste and how fun it looked! A definite keeper!”

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is a delightful adventure through the kitchen. To start, you’ll boil the spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente. Meanwhile, you’ll create a luscious, thick sauce packed with flavor. As the sauce simmers, you’ll prepare the mozzarella eyeballs, transforming ordinary cheese into a festive centerpiece. Finally, you’ll combine everything, plate, and serve this spooky dish with style.

What You’ll Need

To bring your Bloody Spaghetti and Mozzarella Eyeballs to life, gather the following 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 (adjust 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)

Feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand—substituting fresh herbs for dried or using different pasta shapes can work beautifully too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking!

Boil the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Bloody Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions for about 2–3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. Then, mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well and let this sauce simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Your sauce should end up thick and brilliantly red.
Prepare the Mozzarella Eyeballs: While the sauce is simmering, press half a black olive into the center of each mozzarella ball. For an extra spooky touch, you can add a drop of balsamic glaze or black food coloring in the middle to mimic a pupil. Want to turn them into "bloodshot" eyes? Use a toothpick dipped in the tomato sauce to create veins on the mozzarella.
Assemble the Dish: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the bloody sauce, ensuring each strand is well coated. Plate the spaghetti and place the mozzarella eyeballs on top, nestling them into the noodles as if they are staring out at your guests. For additional Halloween flair, consider serving with garlic “fingers” or crusty bread that looks as if it has been demon-gnawed!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This dish is perfect for a spooky dinner party or Halloween festivity, but it can also make for fun family dinners. Serve with a side of garlic bread shaped like fingers for extra flair or pair with a crisp salad to balance the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! Store any unused spaghetti and mozzarella balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the sauce. However, for the mozzarella eyeballs, it’s best to prepare them fresh as they might lose their charm when reheated.

Pro Chef Tips

Add Extra Flavor: For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a splash of red wine to your sauce while it simmers.
Make it Your Own: Experiment with spicy sausage or ground beef mixed into the sauce for added protein and heartiness.
Presentation is Key: Use a large serving bowl to present the spaghetti, making sure to place the mozzarella eyeballs artfully so they stand out.

Creative Twists

Feel free to customize your Bloody Spaghetti! You can add seasonal veggies, like sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sauce for an extra nutrition boost. For an even more horrifying effect, try using black squid ink pasta for that extra eerie look. Plant-based eaters can swap the mozzarella for vegan cheese alternatives or olives.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this recipe take?

From start to finish, expect about 30–40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute party dish.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead of time. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve!

Are there any substitutions for the mozzarella balls?

Absolutely! You might try substituting with marinated feta for a tangy twist or even tofu for a vegan version.

This Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is not only a great conversation starter but reminds us that food can be both fun and delicious. Get ready to impress your guests with this creative and tasty dish!