These Meatball Mummies aren’t your typical spooky snacks! This recipe started as a Halloween experiment – swapping out hot dogs for juicy meatballs in the classic “mummy” recipe. The result? A total hit! Everyone loved the savory twist and how simple they are to make.
My kids actually request Meatball Mummies year-round now, not just for Halloween. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or even a fun weeknight dinner. Plus, wrapping the dough is a great activity to get the little ones involved in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love It
These Meatball Mummies are more than just a fun novelty; they’re seriously delicious! The combination of savory meatballs, flaky dough, and simple dipping sauce is irresistible. Kids and adults alike will gobble them up.
- Fun and Festive: Perfect for Halloween, game day, or any party.
- Kid-Friendly: Little ones can help wrap the mummies.
- Savory Twist: A delicious change from the usual sweet treats.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep time.
Meatball Mummies
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 18 mummies
Description
Meatball Mummies offer a savory twist on the traditional Halloween treat. They’re easy to make, fun for kids to help assemble, and perfect for parties or a spooky weeknight dinner. These mummies swap hot dogs for juicy meatballs wrapped in flaky dough, served with a delicious dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 roll (13.8 oz) prepared pizza dough
- 18 cooked meatballs
- 6 strands raw spaghetti
- 12 edible candy eyeballs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
- Your favorite pasta sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut pizza dough into ¼-inch wide strips.
- Thread 3 meatballs onto each spaghetti strand. Wrap dough strips around the meatballs, leaving a gap for eyes. Remove spaghetti.
- Bake for 19-23 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Brush with melted butter (optional). Add candy eyeballs. Serve with pasta sauce.
Notes
For a cheesier mummy, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan before baking. If using frozen meatballs, ensure they are fully thawed. Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredient Overview
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these adorable Meatball Mummies to life:
- 1 roll (13.8 oz) prepared pizza dough (I prefer Pillsbury refrigerated)
- 18 cooked meatballs (homemade or frozen and thawed)
- 6 strands raw spaghetti
- 12 edible candy eyeballs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for extra golden color)
- Your favorite pasta sauce, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Slice the Dough
Unroll your pizza dough and cut it into thin strips, approximately ¼-inch wide. A pizza cutter or sharp knife works best for this step.
Step 3: Assemble the Mummies
Thread 3 meatballs onto each strand of uncooked spaghetti. This acts as a temporary skewer to hold them together while you wrap. Now, take a dough strip and start wrapping it around the meatballs, stretching and crisscrossing the dough to create a “mummy” effect. Be sure to leave a small gap near the top for the eyes. Gently remove the spaghetti strand once wrapped.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the assembled Meatball Mummies on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 19-23 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once baked, remove the mummies from the oven. If you like, brush them with melted butter for extra shine and color. Gently press the edible eyeballs into the open space you left. Serve immediately with a side of warm pasta sauce for dipping.
Pro Tips
- Dough Thickness: Don’t make your dough strips too thick, or they might not cook through. Aim for about ¼ inch.
- Meatball Size: Use meatballs that are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- Eye Placement: Wait until the mummies are out of the oven before adding the eyes; the heat could melt them. Looking for something different? Try our dumpling recipes.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the mummies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese Please: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese before baking.
- Spicy Mummies: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the pasta sauce for a kick.
- Mini Mummies: Use cocktail meatballs and cut the dough strips thinner for bite-sized appetizers. Get creative with dipping sauces – marinara, ranch, or even sweet chili sauce!
- Veggie Mummies: Swap the meatballs for firm tofu cubes or your favorite vegetables. Explore other Korean delights on our Desserts page.
Can I use pre-cooked store-bought meatballs?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked meatballs work great in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely if frozen.
What kind of pasta sauce should I use?
Any kind you like! Marinara, Alfredo, or even pesto would be delicious.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mummies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I use instead of edible eyeballs?
Get creative! You could use black olives, small pieces of pepperoni, or even draw eyes on with food-safe markers.
Serving Suggestions
Meatball Mummies are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Serve them with a big green salad, some roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal. Try our other tasty Lunch recipes for more inspiration.
Final Thoughts
Meatball Mummies are a fun, festive, and surprisingly simple dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Get the kids involved, let your creativity shine, and enjoy! Don’t forget to check out our Breakfast options for delicious morning meals.
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