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Spooky Meatball Eyeballs with Marinara Sauce

Rhonda Anderson
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizers u0026amp; Snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 20 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef u0026 pork)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • For the “Eyeballs”:
  • 20 small slices of fresh mozzarella cheese (or string cheese rounds)
  • 10 black olives, cut into small round slices (for pupils)
  • For Serving:
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven :– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Make Meatballs :– In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  • Shape Meatballs :– Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet. You should get about 20 meatballs.
  • Bake Meatballs :– Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temp: 160°F / 70°C).
  • Add Eyeballs :– Remove meatballs from the oven. Immediately place a slice of mozzarella on top of each one. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes, until cheese melts slightly.
  • Add Pupils :– Place an olive slice in the center of each mozzarella round while the cheese is warm, pressing gently to stick.
  • Heat Sauce :– Warm marinara sauce in a skillet or saucepan. Place meatballs into the sauce to coat lightly.
  • Serve :– Transfer meatballs to a platter or individual plates, spoon extra sauce around them, and garnish with parsley or basil for a creepy presentation.