Oh, Halloween! That magical time of year when we can embrace our love of all things spooky, silly, and scrumptious. One of my absolute favorite recipes that captures the spirit of the season is my delightful Monster Eyeball Meatballs! Not only do they look like something straight out of a horror movie, but they also pack a flavor punch that will leave your guests clamoring for more—after they get over the initial shock, of course!
I still remember the first time I made these meatballs for a Halloween party years ago. Everyone was so excited, and I could barely keep a straight face as I served them. The expressions on their faces ranged from horror to amusement, and quite frankly, those meatballs were the star of the show. These little monsters are a fun twist on traditional meatballs, featuring an “eyeball” made from olives. They are so easy to make and fun to decorate, they’re perfect for both kids and adults. Plus, you can get creative with sauces, spices, and even the meat you choose!
What’s in Monster Eyeball Meatballs?
Let’s break down the ingredients, shall we?
Ground Beef or Turkey: This is the base for your meatballs. I often opt for lean ground turkey for a healthier twist, but ground beef brings that classic flavor we all love.
Breadcrumbs: These help to bind the meatballs together and give them a fabulous texture. I usually go for plain breadcrumbs, but you can also use Italian-seasoned ones for an extra flavor boost.
Egg: This acts as a binding agent, making sure everything sticks together beautifully.
Onion and Garlic: The holy duo of flavor! I finely chop them for a nice mix in the meatballs. You could also use garlic powder and onion powder if you prefer.
Parmesan Cheese: This brings a lovely umami flavor and richness to the meatballs. Don’t skimp on the cheese; it really makes a difference!
Olives: These are the “eyeballs” of the meatballs! You can use green or black olives, and I personally love using the pimento-stuffed green olives for a touch of color.
Marinara Sauce: Helps to keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful, and serves as a ghoulish blood-like sauce when you drizzle it over the top.
Spices (Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning): Basic yet essential to enhance those comforting flavors.
Is Monster Eyeball Meatballs Good for You?
Absolutely! Well, sort of. While these meatballs are undeniably a playful dish, they also boast some health benefits!
Lean Proteins: Whether you choose ground beef or turkey, you’re getting a solid dose of protein. Great for muscle repair and overall health!
Olives: These briny beauties are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. Just be mindful of the sodium content if you’re watching your salt intake.
That said, they’re still meatballs, so moderation is key! Pair them with a side salad or some roasted veggies to balance things out.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 large egg
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
– ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 cup olives (green or black)
– 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon pepper
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
*Serves about 4-6 people, depending on how many eyeballs you can eat!*
How to Make Monster Eyeball Meatballs?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix it until well combined; your hands are the best tools for this job!
3. Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
4. Using a paring knife, pierce a small hole in the center of each meatball and gently press an olive into the center—this is the “eyeball!”
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
6. While they’re baking, heat up your marinara sauce on the stove over low heat.
7. Once cooked, serve the meatballs with the marinara sauce drizzled over them for an extra spooky effect!
Spook-tacular Tips and Tricks
– If you want a kick, feel free to add some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture!
– You can substitute the marinara for a creamy sauce if you’d like something a bit different—a “mad scientist” twist!
– For a fun party idea, set up a meatball station with different sauces, toppings, and spaghetti for a make-your-own dish!
I can’t wait for you to try these Monster Eyeball Meatballs! They’re terrific for Halloween get-togethers or even a fun family dinner. Please, let me know how your batch turns out, and share those culinary creations with your friends—because nothing brings people together quite like a good scare and a great meal! Happy Halloween!