Go Back

Halloween Spooky Lasagna

This Halloween-inspired lasagna layers al dente noodles with a spicy, smoky tomato sauce, savory ground meat, and gooey cheese, creating a bold and flavorful dish with a visually striking, blood-red appearance. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, with a rich aroma and playful gory details, perfect for festive gatherings. Its layered texture offers a satisfying bite that combines tender noodles, spicy sauce, and melted cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Halloween
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles al dente
  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes for sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup red wine optional, for sauce
  • 1 lb ground meat or plant-based alternative spicy sausage works great
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • fresh parsley or basil chopped, for garnish
  • black optional olives or peppers for spooky eyes or details

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Ladle or spoon
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma.
  3. Add ground meat or plant-based alternative to the skillet, cooking until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in chili powder and cumin, cooking for another minute to develop the smoky, spicy flavors.
  4. Pour crushed tomatoes and red wine into the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and develops a rich, blood-red color.
  5. Spread a thin layer of the sauce in the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking.
  6. Layer cooked noodles over the sauce, followed by a generous spread of sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and dollops of ricotta for creaminess.
  7. Repeat the layering process—noodles, sauce, cheese—until the dish is filled, finishing with a top layer of cheese for that golden, bubbly finish.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top.
  9. Remove from the oven, take off the foil, and let rest for 10 minutes. This helps the lasagna set and makes slicing easier.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a bright, fresh contrast. Use black olives or peppers to create spooky eyes or gory details for a festive touch.
  11. Slice and serve your Halloween Spooky Lasagna hot, enjoying the hearty layers and spicy aroma with friends and family.

Notes

Ensure your sauce is thick enough to cling to the noodles. Avoid overcooking noodles to prevent sogginess. Let the lasagna rest before slicing to keep layers intact. Use fun decorations like olives or peppers for a spooky effect.