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–+ servings
Halloween Baked Pasta

Spooky Halloween Baked Pasta That Kids Will Adore

This Halloween Baked Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy indulgence with playful charm, perfect for a family-friendly meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Rigatoni Pasta Provides structure and fun for kids.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Prevents sticking; substitute with melted butter for richer flavor.
For the Cheesy Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Provides creaminess; can substitute with cottage cheese.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness; yogurt can be used as a lower-calorie alternative.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Contributes creaminess and stretchiness; can replace with Colby jack.
For the Topping
  • 4 ounces Mozzarella Slices Form the base for the 'eyeballs'; optional.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olive Slices Used for creating 'eyeballs'; can replace with capers or omit.
For Flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Basil Adds herbal flavor; can substitute with Italian seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • medium bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta by boiling salted water and adding rigatoni, cooking for 8-9 minutes until slightly undercooked, then drain and toss with olive oil.
  2. Arrange the rigatoni upright in a 9x13-inch baking pan for a honeycomb effect.
  3. Prepare the cheese mixture by combining ricotta cheese and heavy cream until smooth, then spread over rigatoni.
  4. Mix diced tomatoes with salt, pepper, and basil, then drizzle over the pasta.
  5. Top with shredded mozzarella, covering the dish thoroughly, then preheat the oven to 400°F.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the surface is bubbly and golden-brown.
  7. Create mozzarella 'eyeballs' and place on top with black olives after removing from the oven.
  8. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow layers to set.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Halloween Baked Pasta combines delicious ingredients for a fun-filled family meal that will enchant everyone at the table. Perfect for gatherings and leftovers taste amazing too.

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