Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs

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If you’re looking for a festive, frightfully fun dinner to serve this Halloween (or any playful night), Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs is your answer. This dish isn’t just eye-catching—it’s incredibly satisfying and kid-approved. Picture savory meatballs draped in melty mozzarella, with creepy olive eyes staring back at you from a cozy nest of spaghetti in rich marinara sauce.

What makes this recipe extra magical is how easily it turns a classic comfort food into a spooky centerpiece for your table. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just want to surprise your little goblins at dinnertime, these monster meatballs will be the highlight of the night.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Spaghetti works perfectly here because it gives a “nest” effect for your monster meatballs to sit in. You can also use linguine or fettuccine if you want a similar texture with a little more bite. The goal is to have long, thin strands that cradle the cheesy meatballs and soak up that savory tomato sauce.

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Ingredients for the Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs

Ground Beef – A classic base for juicy, tender meatballs with rich flavor.

Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatballs together and give them a great texture.

Egg – The key binder for keeping your meatballs firm but not dry.

Garlic & Onion Powder – Essential for seasoning the meat mixture without overwhelming it.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory umami punch to the meatballs.

Salt & Pepper – Balances and enhances all other flavors.

Mozzarella Cheese Slices or Shreds – Melted over the meatballs to create a spooky ghost-like look.

Black Olives – Sliced to form “monster eyes” that peer out from the melted cheese.

Spaghetti – The pasta base that holds your monster meatballs.

Marinara Sauce – Brings the whole dish together with a sweet and savory tomato flavor.

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How To Make the Spooky Spaghetti & Cheesy Monster Meatballs

Step 1: Mix & Shape the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into evenly sized meatballs (about the size of a golf ball).

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

Place the meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with warm marinara sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cheese & Eyes

Remove the meatballs from the oven and place a slice or handful of mozzarella over each one. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and drapes like a ghost. Add sliced black olives on top to create eyes.

Step 5: Assemble the Plate

Plate the spaghetti in a circular “nest” on each serving dish. Nestle 2-3 monster meatballs in each, letting their cheesy faces peek out.

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How to Serve and Store This Spooky Pasta

Serve the Spooky Spaghetti immediately while the cheese is still gooey and stretchy. For presentation, use a dark or Halloween-themed plate to make the “monsters” pop even more.

To store leftovers, place the meatballs and spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of marinara.

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What to Serve With Spooky Spaghetti?

Garlic Bread Fingers

Slice up some garlic bread into long finger-like pieces. Serve crispy and warm for a spooky twist on a classic side.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

These golden, herby bites are a great healthy contrast to cheesy pasta. Try Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes.

Monster Green Salad

Toss together a salad with romaine, cucumber, purple cabbage, and black olives for a creepy color combo.

Mozzarella Stick Broomsticks

Cut mozzarella sticks in half and use thin pretzel sticks for handles. A fun and easy appetizer!

Cheesecake Fruit Salad

Add a sweet ending to your spooky dinner with this Cheesecake Fruit Salad.

Halloween Punch

A bright red or green punch with floating gummy worms or eyeballs makes the whole meal even more festive.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love spooky or creative pasta dishes, check out these crowd-pleasing favorites from Savor Queen:

• Classic Spaghetti Carbonara for rich, creamy indulgence.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a cozy spoonful of comfort.
• Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni for bold flavors and hearty bites.
• Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for an easy weeknight win.
• Spaghetti Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce for something gourmet but simple.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added chili flakes, or swapped mozzarella for provolone? I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your spin in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite recipe might be waiting there.

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