Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese: The Creamiest, Spookiest Baked Mac and Cheese for Halloween
why make this recipe
Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese is perfect for Halloween fun! This spooky twist on classic mac and cheese is not only creamy and delicious, but it also adds a festive touch to any Halloween gathering. The ghostly mozzarella shapes and sesame seed eyes make it a hit for kids and adults alike. It’s a great dish to celebrate the season while enjoying a comforting meal.
how to make Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow pasta (or any cheddar mac favorite)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10-12 slices mozzarella (for ghost-shaped mozzarella)
- Sesame seeds or peppercorns (for ghost eyes)
- Optional: Extra cheddar or breadcrumbs for spooky cheese topping
Directions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan and whisk in the flour. Cook for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every piece is coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered casserole dish.
- Cut the mozzarella slices into ghost shapes and arrange them on top.
- Add sesame seeds or peppercorns for the ghost eyes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve each portion with a ghost on top for extra spooky delight!
how to serve Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese
Serve Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese straight from the oven while it’s hot. You can present it in individual bowls to show off the ghostly shapes. Pair it with a refreshing salad or some crispy bread to make the meal complete. Don’t forget to enjoy it with friends and family, as it’s meant to be shared!
how to store Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just place it in the oven or microwave until it’s warm again.
tips to make Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese
- For an even cheesier dish, mix in some extra shredded cheese before baking.
- You can add cooked bacon or veggies to the pasta mixture for more flavor and texture.
- If you want a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
variation
Try using different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist, like shells or spirals. You can also swap the cheeses for different flavors, such as gouda or pepper jack, to add a unique kick!
FAQs
1. Can I make Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it, assemble it in the casserole dish, and then cover it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
2. What sides go well with this dish?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this creamy mac and cheese.
3. Can I freeze Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese?
Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it well. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese
A spooky twist on classic mac and cheese, perfect for Halloween gatherings. This creamy dish features ghost-shaped mozzarella and sesame seed eyes for a festive touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow pasta (or any cheddar mac favorite)
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10–12 slices mozzarella (for ghost-shaped mozzarella)
- Sesame seeds or peppercorns (for ghost eyes)
- Optional: Extra cheddar or breadcrumbs for spooky cheese topping
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan and whisk in the flour. Cook for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every piece is coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered casserole dish.
- Cut the mozzarella slices into ghost shapes and arrange them on top.
- Add sesame seeds or peppercorns for the ghost eyes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve each portion with a ghost on top for extra spooky delight!
Notes
For an even cheesier dish, mix in some extra shredded cheese before baking. You can add cooked bacon or veggies for more flavor and texture. For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg