Description
Transform your Halloween party with **Graveyard Taco Dip**—a mouthwatering and visually captivating appetizer! Layered with creamy refried beans, zesty salsa, and rich guacamole, this dip is topped with cheese and decorated with spooky olive “spiders” and tortilla chip “tombstones.” It’s not just a delicious treat; it’s a festive centerpiece that will delight guests of all ages. Easy to make and fun to serve, this dip is sure to be the highlight of your celebration. Don’t miss out—bring this showstopper to your table!
Ingredients
Scale
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- 12 oz spaghetti – The classic pasta base that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
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- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey) – This will be used for the meatballs. Feel free to substitute with plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
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- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs together.
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- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds flavor and richness to the meatballs.
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- 1 egg – Helps bind the meatball mixture.
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- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a savory kick.
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- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor.
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- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
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- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – This will be the delicious sauce to coat your spaghetti.
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- Olives – Black olives work great for creating the “eyeballs.”
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- Mozzarella cheese – Optional, for a cheesy touch!
Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
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- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Eyeballs
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- Using your hands, take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
4. Add the “Eyeball” Details
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- Using a toothpick or your finger, press a small indentation into the center of each meatball. Place a half olive in each indentation to create the appearance of an eyeball.
5. Cook the Meatballs
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- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce.
6. Heat the Marinara Sauce
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- In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and gently place the cooked meatballs into the sauce. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to finish cooking and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
7. Combine and Serve
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- Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly, toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta.
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- Serve the spaghetti on plates or in bowls, topping each portion with a few meatballs and extra olives if desired.
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- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 25g