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Creepy Eyeball Meatballs

Creepy Eyeball Meatballs for Spooky Family Fun

These Creepy Eyeball Meatballs combine playful presentation with savory goodness, making them a perfect spooky treat for Halloween dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 meatballs
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend) or ground turkey for a lighter option
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs gluten-free for a gluten-free version
  • 1/2 cup Milk or almond/oat milk for dairy-free option
  • 1 large Egg no substitutions recommended
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) or nutritional yeast for vegan alternative
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) fresh is recommended
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper omit for milder taste
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) or basil/oregano
For the Eyeballs
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Balls (small) or regular mozzarella cubed
  • 10 pieces Green Olives with Pimentos black olives for different look
For Serving
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce low-sodium version if preferred
  • 1 tbsp Red Gel Food Coloring or Hot Sauce optional for veins
  • 20 pieces Toothpicks for assembling

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Paper Towels

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk and let them soak for about 5 minutes to soften. Then, add the ground beef, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
  2. With your hands, shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs—aim for about 24 in total. As you form each meatball, press gently in the center to create a slightly larger indent for the mozzarella eyepieces later.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then place the meatballs on it. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through and golden-brown.
  4. While the meatballs bake, dry the mozzarella balls with a paper towel. Using a small knife, carefully slice the green olives in half to create pupils. Attach each half onto a mozzarella ball to create the spooky eyeballs.
  5. In a large skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once warm, add the baked meatballs and simmer for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to coat evenly.
  6. Once warmed, gently press a mozzarella eyeball onto each meatball while still hot. Use toothpicks dipped in red gel food coloring to create creepy veins. Serve on a festive platter with extra marinara sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure deep indents in meatballs to hold mozzarella 'eyeballs' securely. Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.

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