These Cool Eyeball Meatballs are not just fun, they’re delicious! They’re meatballs that look like eyeballs, complete with a tasty sauce that will make everyone giggle with delight.
Making these is a blast! I love serving them at parties. Just grab some spaghetti and watch the kids’ faces light up—who wouldn’t want to eat eyeball meatballs? 👀🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use a mix of beef and pork for added flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier or lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are standard, but you can substitute them with Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a good option if you’re gluten-sensitive.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but homemade is always better. For a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes to your sauce.
Mozzarella Balls: Look for small bocconcini, but if unavailable, you can cube regular mozzarella cheese. Also, cheese alternatives work for a vegan twist—cashew cheese, for instance, can be fun to experiment with!
How Can You Get Meatballs to Hold Their Shape?
Shaping meatballs can feel tricky, but there are some simple tips to make it easy. Start by mixing your ingredients well but don’t overwork the meat—this can make them tough. Here’s how to shape them perfectly:
- Use wet hands to shape the meatballs. This prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Make them uniform in size, about the size of a golf ball, for even cooking.
- Searing them in the skillet before baking helps them hold together and adds flavor.
Following these steps will lead to meatballs that are deliciously moist and perfectly shaped for your feast!
Cool Eyeball Meatballs Feast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- For the Eyeball Topping:
- 20 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained – these will be the eyeballs
- 20 black olives, sliced into rounds – to form the pupils
- For Cooking:
- Olive oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun dish takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus an additional 30-40 minutes to cook and bake the meatballs. Perfect for a spooky party or a lively family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and hot for those delicious meatballs!
2. Mix the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or your chosen meat), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly, but be gentle so you don’t overwork the meat.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Take the mixture and shape it into golf ball-sized meatballs—aim for about 20 pieces. Use wet hands for easier shaping if needed!
4. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 4-5 minutes. You want them nice and seared but not fully cooked through, as they’ll finish in the oven.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Once browned, carefully transfer the meatballs to a baking dish or oven-safe platter.
6. Add the Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs, making sure they’re all coated and ready for baking.
7. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This will ensure the meatballs are fully cooked and flavorful.
8. Prepare the Eyeballs:
While the meatballs bake, slice your black olives into small rounds for the eyeball pupils.
9. Add the Mozzarella:
After baking, take the meatballs out of the oven and gently press one mozzarella ball on top of each meatball to create the “eyeball” effect.
10. Finish with Pupils:
Place one sliced olive piece right in the center of each mozzarella ball to make them look just like eyeballs!
11. Garnish and Serve:
For a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top as a garnish. Serve the meatballs hot as a spooky main dish and watch everyone enjoy this fun feast!
Enjoy your “Cool Eyeball Meatballs Feast” — they’re not just tasty, but also a playful addition to any party! 🍽️👀
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or an extra egg to maintain moisture.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and shape the meatballs a day ahead, keeping them covered in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving. Additionally, the sauce can also be made in advance and reheated.
What Can I Serve with Eyeball Meatballs?
These meatballs are fun on their own, but they shine when served over a bed of pasta, rice, or even in a sub sandwich. Pair them with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal!
