Looking for the very best way to spook up your Halloween table? This Halloween Spaghetti (Vegetarian) is absolutely haunting-jet-black noodles tangled with a zesty, garlicky tomato sauce, and topped with creepy olive "eyeballs" for a ghoulish finish!

It's a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing main that's both festive and delicious, with rich Italian flavors and a playful twist everyone will love. Plus, it comes together in less than an hour and is perfect for a party, a Halloween potluck, or a fun family dinner.

This recipe is a long-time October favorite in my house-my kids look forward to "spooky pasta night" all year! Trust me, it's so easy, you'll want to make it every Halloween.

A bowl of spooky black Halloween spaghetti topped with olive eyeballs and parsley.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

So much fun for Halloween parties, kids, and adults alike!
Rich, classic Italian flavor with a memorable spooky twist
Quick and easy-on the table in under an hour
Totally vegetarian and easily adaptable for vegan or gluten-free diets

Key Ingredients for Halloween Spaghetti (Vegetarian)

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Black Spaghetti (Squid Ink or Black Bean Pasta)

The star of the show! Black pasta gives the dish its signature spooky color and wow factor-look for squid ink spaghetti or use black bean or black rice pasta for a vegetarian-friendly option. It's best to cook just until al dente, so the noodles hold their shape. If you can't find black pasta, toss regular spaghetti in a little black food coloring after cooking for a similar effect.

Marinara Sauce

A rich, garlicky marinara makes the perfect backbone for this recipe. Use your favorite jarred sauce for convenience, or make a quick one from scratch with canned tomatoes, sautéed onions, and garlic. If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Mozzarella Pearls

These mini mozzarella balls create the "eyeball" effect when paired with olive slices. Pat them dry before assembling so they hold their shape. If you can't find pearls, cut regular mozzarella into ½-inch cubes. For a vegan option, use plant-based mozzarella balls.

Black Olives

Sliced black olives top the mozzarella to make realistic-looking "eyeballs." Go with pitted olives for easy prep. Green olives or even small cherry tomato slices also work for a pop of color and a fun twist.

Fresh Parsley

A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce. If parsley isn't your thing, basil or chives are also delicious.

Halloween Spaghetti (Vegetarian) cooking process

Instructions for Halloween Spaghetti (Vegetarian)

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Black Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the black spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until just al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside. If using regular spaghetti, toss with a few drops of black food coloring for that eerie effect.

Make the Spooky Marinara Sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Olive "Eyeballs"

Pat mozzarella pearls dry with a paper towel. Place a black olive slice on top of each mozzarella pearl to form an "eyeball." Set aside on a plate. If using cubes, slice mozzarella into ½-inch pieces first.

Toss Pasta with Sauce

Add the drained black spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until all the noodles are coated in marinara and heated through, 2-3 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the saucy spaghetti to a serving platter or individual bowls. Nestle olive "eyeballs" on top for a creepy effect, then sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your spooky creation!

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegan

Swap the mozzarella pearls for your favorite dairy-free mozzarella balls, or use small pieces of firm tofu. The rest of the recipe is naturally vegan if you use a vegan pasta and sauce.

Gluten-Free Option

Substitute gluten-free black bean spaghetti or another gluten-free pasta for the noodles. Double-check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

Add More Veggies

Stir in sautéed mushrooms, red bell pepper, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Roasted butternut squash cubes also make a festive autumn addition.

Spice It Up

Kick up the heat by adding extra red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste if you like things fiery.

Cheesy "Worms"

For a playful twist, add shredded mozzarella or vegan cheese on top and broil until melted and bubbly-the gooey strands look like "worms" crawling through the pasta!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Halloween Spaghetti (Vegetarian) with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, and a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for dunking in the rich sauce. For even more spooky vibes, sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley or basil on top and let the olive "eyeballs" take center stage!

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or warm in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until hot, adding a splash of water if needed. While the pasta can be frozen, the texture may change slightly-if freezing, do so without the cheese "eyeballs" for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Halloween Spaghetti (Vegetarian) (FAQ)

Q: Where can I buy black spaghetti for this recipe?

A: Check the pasta aisle of well-stocked grocery stores, specialty Italian markets, or shop online. Look for squid ink, black bean, or black rice spaghetti.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Absolutely! Just swap in vegan mozzarella balls or cubes for the "eyeballs," and use a plant-based pasta and marinara sauce.

Q: How can I make this dish ahead for a party?

A: Prepare the sauce and assemble the "eyeballs" up to a day in advance. Cook the pasta fresh, toss with sauce, and add the cheese "eyeballs" right before serving for best texture and effect.

Ready to make your Halloween dinner the talk of the neighborhood? This Halloween Spaghetti (Vegetarian) is guaranteed to delight kids and adults alike with its spooky vibes and comforting Italian flavor. Give it a try this season-then come back and leave a comment or rating to let me know how your spooky pasta night turned out!