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Eyeball Meatballs

Eyeball meatballs are playful, spooky snacks made by shaping seasoned ground meat into small balls, browning them until golden, and baking until cooked through. The final dish features juicy, tender meatballs with a crispy exterior, resembling spooky eyeballs perfect for casual gatherings or themed parties.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey) juicy and tender
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion adds aroma and moisture
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced for flavor
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs keeps meatballs moist
  • 1 large egg acts as a binder
  • 1 teaspoon basil, chopped adds freshness
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for a little zing
  • 2 tablespoons oil for browning
  • optional sauces serve with tomato or mushroom sauce

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Meatball scoop or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and gather all your ingredients.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and a large egg. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the meat tender.
  3. Shape the mixture into small, round balls about the size of a golf ball using your hands or a meatball scoop. These will resemble tiny eyeballs.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil, and carefully place the meatballs in the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they develop a rich, golden crust and sizzle loudly as they brown.
  5. Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). You should see the meatballs firm up and juices run clear.
  6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy and prevents juices from running out when you serve.
  7. Serve the eyeball meatballs hot, with your favorite sauce or as a fun party snack. Their spooky look makes them a perfect conversation starter!

Notes

For an extra spooky effect, add small sliced olives or cherry tomatoes on top to mimic pupils.