Get ready for a spooky fun time with these Cool Eyeball Meatballs! They’re made with juicy meatballs and topped with cheesy “eyeballs” that are sure to impress your guests.
Perfect for a Halloween party or just for a silly dinner, these meatballs are a hit with kids and adults alike. I love serving them with spaghetti to keep things messy and really playful! 🍝👁️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef and Pork: This combo gives the meatballs great flavor and a juicy texture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option or use a plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian version!
Breadcrumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs, but you could swap in panko for a crunchier texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work too if you’re avoiding gluten. Just adjust the amount of liquid to prevent dryness!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought sauce is super convenient, but homemade is always better! You can also use any pasta sauce you have on hand, like BBQ sauce for a fun twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella is gooey and melts beautifully. For a sharper taste, you can use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses. Vegan cheese can replace it if you’re keeping it plant-based.
How Do I Shape Perfect Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs can be tricky, but here are some tips for perfect results. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking. Use your hands to roll them gently; avoid pressing too hard or they might end up dense.
- Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniformity.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish; give them space to brown.
Taking time to shape them correctly will lead to tender and juicy meatballs!
Cool Eyeball Meatballs Feast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Assembly:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12-16 small round mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
- 12-16 black olives, sliced (to make eyeball pupils)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect to whip up for a fun weeknight dinner or a spooky themed gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your meatballs bake evenly and come out perfectly cooked.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything together until fully combined. No need to overmix; just make sure everything is well blended!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Once your mixture is ready, shape it into meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs in a baking dish or ovenproof skillet, giving them a bit of space between each one.
4. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce evenly around the meatballs in the baking dish. This will keep them moist and infuse them with delicious flavor as they cook.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are nearly cooked through.
6. Add the Mozzarella ‘Eyeballs’:
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over each meatball. Then, place a small mozzarella ball on top of each meatball for the fun “eyeball” effect!
7. Create the Eyeball Pupils:
Slice the black olives into small rounds. Carefully place one olive slice on top of each mozzarella ball to resemble the pupil of an eye. It’s okay if they aren’t perfect—spooky is the intention!
8. Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This will create a wonderful cheesy crust that everyone will love!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, take your dish out of the oven and garnish with extra chopped parsley for a bright touch. Serve your Cool Eyeball Meatballs hot with spaghetti, garlic bread, or any of your favorite sides.
10. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your spooky creation, perfect for any Halloween party or a fun family dinner! Get ready to impress your guests with this imaginative dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef and Pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or some finely chopped onions, to keep the meatballs juicy.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats. Just make sure to check the marinara sauce label to ensure it’s gluten-free as well!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the meatballs and assemble everything up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just adjust the baking time as needed if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little marinara sauce to keep them moist. Enjoy them again as a fun snack or meal!
