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Platter of Halloween meatballs with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and black olives
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Halloween Meatballs

Make easy Halloween meatballs for a spooky party appetizer or dinner that's fun, festive, and perfect for Halloween gatherings.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Keyword halloween meatballs
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 24 meatballs
Calories 340kcal
Author C. Sophie

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Meatball scoop
  • Baking Sheet
  • skillet

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground beef 85/15 lean
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 12 slices fresh mozzarella cheese cut into 1-inch circles
  • 12 slices pitted black olives sliced into thin rounds

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  • Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just incorporated; do not overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
  • Portion and roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls (approximately 24 meatballs) and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake for 15 to 17 minutes until the meatballs are browned and have reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • While the meatballs are baking, pour the marinara sauce into a large skillet and warm it over medium-low heat until simmering.
  • Once baked, carefully transfer the meatballs into the skillet with the marinara sauce, gently tossing them to ensure they are well-coated.
  • Place one mozzarella cheese circle on top of each meatball, followed by a slice of black olive in the center to create an 'eyeball' look.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid for 60 to 90 seconds, just until the cheese begins to soften and melt onto the meatball without losing its round shape.
  • Remove from heat and serve the 'eyeball' meatballs immediately, either on a platter or over pasta.

Notes

Nutritional information:
  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 23g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Potassium: 200mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 10 IU
  • Vitamin C: 2mg
  • Calcium: 10mg
  • Iron: 2mg
Tip: Let the preparation cool completely before sealing containers to limit condensation and preserve texture.