Cool Eyeball Meatballs Feast

Get ready for a spooky and fun meal with these Cool Eyeball Meatballs! They’re made from ground meat, delicious spices, and topped with a tasty sauce that gives them a unique look.

Perfect for Halloween or any fun dinner, these little meatballs will surprise everyone on the table. I love serving them with pasta or in a bun. Just watch out for those “eyeballs!” 😂

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: The main protein for this recipe, but you can use turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.

Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs add texture. If you want to make it gluten-free, substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.

Parmesan Cheese: A little grated Parmesan enhances flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy taste without the dairy.

Tomato Sauce: Any marinara works, but if you’re low on time, a jarred sauce is convenient. For a bolder flavor, add Italian herbs or red pepper flakes to a basic sauce.

Eyeball Topping: Mozzarella balls make for cute eyeballs! You can also use cream cheese balls with an olive slice on top for an equally fun look.

How Do I Get Perfectly Shaped Meatballs?

Shaping meatballs can be tricky! Here’s how to get them just right:

• Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form equally sized meatballs. This ensures they cook evenly.
• Wet your hands with water before rolling to prevent sticking.
• Don’t overwork the meat mixture; it can make your meatballs tough. Just mix until combined.
• Space them on the baking sheet to give them room to brown and not steam.

By using these tips, your meatballs will turn out perfectly every time — round and delicious!

Cool Eyeball Meatballs Feast

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara or your favorite tomato sauce

For the Eyeball Topping:

• Mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
• Edible printed eyeball images or food-safe eyeball images (or make your own with sliced olives and cheese)
• Red bell pepper or red-colored sauce (e.g., ketchup or sriracha) for veiny details

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. You’ll enjoy a fun dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper so the meatballs don’t stick.

2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until just combined—don’t overwork it!

3. Shape the Meatballs:

Now, take portions of the mixture and shape them into small, golf-ball-sized meatballs. Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.

4. Bake the Meatballs:

Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and slightly browned on the outside.

5. Warm the Sauce:

While the meatballs are baking, take a large skillet and pour in the marinara sauce. Warm the sauce over medium heat so it’s nice and hot when the meatballs are ready.

6. Coat the Meatballs:

Once the meatballs are done, carefully transfer them into the warm marinara sauce, gently coating them. This keeps them flavorful and warm as you prepare the final touches.

7. Prepare the Eyeball Decoration:

For the fun part! Take a mozzarella ball for each meatball and place an edible printed eyeball image or a slice of black olive on top to create the pupil. You can also use a small circle of colored cheese for a more artistic touch!

8. Add Some Spooky Details:

Using small strips of red bell pepper or tiny dots of red sauce, mimic veins or eyelashes around the mozzarella to make your eyeball meatballs look even spookier!

9. Place the Eyeballs:

While the meatballs are still warm from the sauce, place the mozzarella eyeballs carefully on top. The heat will help the cheese stick on nicely.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Now that your “eyeball” meatballs are ready, serve them hot over a plate of pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread. Get ready for some excited reactions at your spooky feast!

This recipe not only looks great but tastes fantastic too. Perfect for Halloween parties, movie nights, or just a fun dinner with family! Enjoy the creepy goodness!

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a great lean alternative and will still work well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey can cook a bit faster.

How Do I Store Leftover Eyeball Meatballs?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of sauce to keep them moist.

Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance. Just shape them and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s a Good Vegetarian Substitute for Meatballs?

For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based meat substitutes or making meatballs with lentils or chickpeas. Just follow the same mixing and shaping process, and they’ll still be delicious!