Name: Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones with Marinara Blood
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Pizza dough (1 pound, store-bought or homemade); Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded); Garlic powder (1 teaspoon); Dried oregano (1 teaspoon); Olive oil (2 tablespoons); Marinara sauce (1 cup, for dipping); Red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)

Spread the love

Are you ready to elevate your Halloween festivities with a dish that’s both fun and delicious? Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones with Marinara Blood are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight that will impress your guests. Imagine crispy, cheesy breadsticks shaped like bones, served with a rich marinara sauce that resembles blood. This recipe is perfect for Halloween parties, movie nights, or any spooky gathering. Let’s dive into how to create this eerie yet tasty dish!

Ingredients List

To make Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones with Marinara Blood, gather the following ingredients:

Pizza dough (1 pound, store-bought or homemade)
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
Marinara sauce (1 cup, for dipping)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)

Substitution Suggestions:

Pizza Dough: You can use crescent roll dough or even biscuit dough for a different texture.
Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for varied flavors.
Marinara Sauce: Substitute with a spicy arrabbiata sauce for an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your breadsticks will be crispy and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about ½ inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips, approximately 1 inch wide. Shape each strip into a bone by tapering the ends and adding small “knuckles” in the middle.

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Cheese

Place the shaped dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each bone with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano over the top. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on each bone.

Step 4: Bake the Bones

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 5: Prepare the Marinara Blood

While the breadsticks are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. If you’d like to add a bit of spice, stir in some red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the breadsticks are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the marinara sauce in a bowl for dipping, resembling a pool of blood.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 280
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional Insights:

Calories: This dish is a fun indulgence, perfect for sharing during Halloween celebrations.
Protein: The cheese adds a good amount of protein, making these breadsticks a more satisfying snack.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

Whole Wheat Dough: Use whole wheat pizza dough for added fiber and nutrients.
Low-Fat Cheese: Opt for low-fat mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese alternative to reduce calories.
Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or peppers into the dough for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones can be served in various creative ways:

Spooky Platter: Arrange the bones on a platter with Halloween-themed decorations, like plastic spiders or fake cobwebs.
Themed Parties: Pair them with other Halloween treats, such as pumpkin soup or ghost-shaped cookies.
Family Fun: Encourage kids to help shape the bones and get creative with their own designs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Overbaking: Keep an eye on the breadsticks to prevent burning; they should be golden brown but not too dark.
Too Much Cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can make the breadsticks soggy. Use a moderate amount for the best texture.
Ignoring the Dough Thickness: Make sure the dough is rolled out evenly to ensure consistent baking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones fresh:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Freezing: If you have extra dough, freeze it before shaping. Just thaw and shape when ready to bake.

Conclusion

In summary, Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones with Marinara Blood are a delightful and spooky addition to your Halloween celebrations. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a dish that’s both fun and flavorful. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more festive updates!

FAQs

Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the breadsticks ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and bake them fresh when ready to serve.

Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and allows you to customize the flavors.

How can I make these breadsticks spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use a spicier cheese for an extra kick.