Get ready for a spook-tacular treat with Eyeball Meatballs! These fun and spooky meatballs are made with ground meat, herbs, and tasty cheese for the “eyeball” effect. Perfect for Halloween or a silly dinner.
When I make these, I can’t help but chuckle as they look at me from the plate! 🍝 Just add some spaghetti and sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s both fun and delicious. Perfect for impressing kids or guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often mix ground beef and pork for richer meatballs, but feel free to use just one of them. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re seeking a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work great, but if you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have any, pecorino Romano is a nice substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option!
Marinara Sauce: Any jarred or homemade marinara is fine. You could also opt for a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a kick, or even a smooth tomato sauce if you prefer.
Olive Slices: If you’re not a fan of black olives, enjoy these meatballs with sliced jalapeños or even pickled peppers for a different twist.
How Can You Shape Perfect Meatballs?
Shaping the meatballs can seem tricky, but it’s all about technique! Here’s how to make them perfectly round:
- Use a medium-sized scoop or your hands to grab a portion of the mixture.
- Gently roll it between your palms without applying too much pressure to keep them tender.
- Ensure the meatballs are uniform in size so they cook evenly. About 2 inches in diameter is great!
To keep your hands from getting too sticky, try wetting them with a little water before shaping. This grease helps the meat slide off easily!
How to Make Eyeball Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce and Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 6 slices of mozzarella cheese (cut into circles roughly the size of the meatballs)
- 6 black olive slices (for the “pupil” of the eyeball)
- Olive oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun dish takes about 30 minutes in total! You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation, 8 minutes for browning the meatballs, and an additional 15-20 minutes for baking. A quick and delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the meatballs tender!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to shape your mixture! With your hands, form the mixture into 6 equal-sized meatballs. They should be compact but gently rounded. Aim for about 2 inches in diameter.
3. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once heated, add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 6-8 minutes. You’re not cooking them through just yet, just giving them a nice color!
4. Preheat the Oven:
While the meatballs are browning, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Assemble in the Baking Dish:
Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over and around them. It will soak into the meatballs while they bake—yum!
6. Add the Cheese and Olives:
Cut circles of mozzarella cheese to fit the top of each meatball. Place one cheese slice on each meatball, then press one black olive slice into the center of each cheese slice, creating the “pupil” for the eyeball effect!
7. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. The meatballs should be cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C), and the cheese you added will be melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle some additional chopped parsley on top for a fresh, green touch. Serve your spooky Eyeball Meatballs hot, ideally with spaghetti or crusty bread to soak up that delicious marinara!
Enjoy your spooky, fun, and tasty Eyeball Meatballs! They’re sure to be a hit at any Halloween gathering or family dinner. 🍝👀
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so adding a bit more moisture, like an extra splash of marinara or a touch of olive oil, can help keep your meatballs tender.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also use ground oats, which work well to bind the mixture together!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Any leftover Eyeball Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge and heat whenever you’re ready to eat!
