Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

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Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and spooky dish to impress your guests, Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs is the perfect choice. It combines delicious pasta with a creepy twist, making it ideal for Halloween gatherings or themed parties. This dish is not only visually striking but also easy to prepare and absolutely tasty. Your friends and family will be amazed by this fun and festive meal!

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 heat)

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 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 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—perfect for that “bloody” look!
Prepare the Mozzarella Eyeballs: While the sauce simmers, take each mozzarella ball and gently press a slice of black olive into the center. 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 the Dish: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the bloody sauce until well coated. Plate the spaghetti on a serving platter or individual plates. Gently place the mozzarella eyeballs on top of the pasta, slightly nestling them into the noodles so they appear to be staring back at your guests. Try to space them out for maximum visual effect.
Tips (optional): Use squid ink pasta for a more dramatic look; add extra eyeballs as garnish; make the sauce ahead and reheat; serve with garlic bread “fingers” for a full Halloween theme.

How to Serve Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

Serve the Bloody Spaghetti on a large platter or individual plates. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair this spooky dish with a fun drink like a red punch to enhance the theme.

How to Store Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the spaghetti in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or additional crushed tomatoes to keep it moist. The mozzarella eyeballs can be kept in the refrigerator but are best added right before serving to maintain their fresh look.

Tips to Make Bloody Spaghetti with Mozzarella Eyeballs

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; ripe tomatoes or fresh herbs can elevate the dish.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili flakes according to your preference.
If you want a richer sauce, consider adding cooked ground meat or vegetables.

Variation

You can substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta like fettuccine or even use a gluten-free option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in some black pasta for even more visual impact!

FAQs

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just reheat it before adding the spaghetti.

2. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is kid-friendly. You can adjust the spice level to make it milder for younger children.

3. Can I use other types of cheese for the eyeballs?
Yes, other kinds of cheese like cream cheese or even sliced provolone can work, but mozzarella gives you the best effect for eyeballs.