10 Spooky Delicious Halloween Side Dishes to Impress Your Guests

Halloween isn’t just about the costumes and candy; it’s also the perfect opportunity to whip up some fun and spooky side dishes that will delight your guests.

Whether you’re aiming for creepy-crawly treats or seasonal flavors, these side dishes will add a festive touch to your Halloween gathering. Let’s dive into some tasty options that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Mashed Potato Ghosts

These mashed potato ghosts are a fun and spooky twist on a classic side dish, making them perfect for Halloween gatherings. With their fluffy texture and creamy flavor, they are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Plus, they are simple to prepare, allowing you to whip them up in no time!

Shaped like little ghosts and adorned with edible eyes, these mashed potatoes not only taste delicious but add a festive touch to your table. Whether you serve them alongside your main dish or as a unique appetizer, these playful ghosts will be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Black olives (for eyes)
• Cooking spray (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the diced potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Shape the Ghosts: Using a piping bag or a spoon, create ghost shapes on a serving platter. Make them as tall and fluffy as you like!
4. Add the Eyes: Cut black olives in half and place them on the ghosts to create eyes.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or keep warm until ready to serve!

Pumpkin-Shaped Mac And Cheese Balls

These pumpkin-shaped mac and cheese balls are not only cute but also delicious! With a creamy, cheesy filling encased in a fun shape, they bring a festive touch to any Halloween gathering. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavor and comforting texture.

Making these treats is quite simple, and they come together quickly, making them an ideal side dish for your Halloween feast. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or broccoli for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a pot, heat the milk over medium heat, then add the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Combine with Macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined. Allow it to cool slightly.
3. Form the Balls: Scoop a tablespoon of the mac and cheese mixture and form it into a small ball shape. Repeat until the mixture is used up.
4. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each mac and cheese ball in breadcrumbs to coat them evenly.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated balls on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Garnish: Once out of the oven, place a small piece of parsley or broccoli on top of each ball to resemble a pumpkin stem.

Spider Web Sweet Potato Casserole

This Spider Web Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful way to bring some Halloween spirit to your dinner table. Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a creamy, fluffy texture, this side dish is both comforting and festive. The spider web design on top adds a fun twist, making it perfect for gatherings.

It’s simple to prepare, so even novice cooks can jump right in. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have an eye-catching dish that tastes as good as it looks!

Ingredients

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
• 1 cup cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
3. Transfer the sweet potato mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. If you’re using mini marshmallows, sprinkle them over the top before baking.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and lightly golden on top.
6. Once out of the oven, use the cream cheese frosting to create a spider web design on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Bloody Beet Risotto

Bloody Beet Risotto is a unique twist on the classic Italian dish that brings a vibrant color and rich flavor to your table. The earthy sweetness of beets pairs beautifully with creamy arborio rice, creating a comforting side dish that’s perfect for Halloween gatherings.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and a bit of stirring. With its eye-catching hue and delicious taste, it’s sure to impress your guests while adding a spooky touch to your festivities.

Ingredients

• 1 cup arborio rice
• 2 medium beets, cooked and pureed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable broth in a saucepan and keep it warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Stir in the arborio rice and cook for about 2 minutes until slightly toasted.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and let it simmer until absorbed.
5. Gradually add the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
6. After about 15-20 minutes, when the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the beet puree and Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color.

Monster Eye Deviled Potatoes

Get ready for a fun twist on a classic dish with these Monster Eye Deviled Potatoes! The creamy filling is both tasty and spooky, making it a perfect side dish for your Halloween gathering. If you’re looking for something simple yet festive, these potatoes are a great choice.

The flavor combination of smooth mashed potatoes mixed with herbs and spices creates a delightful treat that everyone will love. Plus, the addition of olives for decoration adds a playful, creepy touch that will impress your guests. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 medium purple potatoes
• 2 hard-boiled eggs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 4-6 black olives, sliced

Instructions

1. Boil the Potatoes: Start by boiling the purple potatoes in salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. Prepare the Filling: While the potatoes are cooling, peel the hard-boiled eggs and chop them finely. In a bowl, mix the chopped eggs with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and parsley.
3. Fill the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out a bit of the flesh to create space for the filling. Mix the scooped potato flesh with the egg mixture until well combined.
4. Assemble: Spoon the filling back into the potato halves. Top each with a slice of black olive to resemble a monster eye.
5. Serve: Arrange the Monster Eye Deviled Potatoes on a platter and enjoy your spooky side dish!

Graveyard Tater Tots

Graveyard Tater Tots are a fun and spooky side dish that’s perfect for Halloween gatherings. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a crowd favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find this recipe is a breeze, even for novice cooks.

These tater tots can be dressed up with toppings that resemble tombstones and grass, creating an adorable yet eerie presentation. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or just looking to add a festive touch to dinner, this dish will surely delight your guests.

Ingredients

• 32 oz frozen tater tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• Parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven according to the tater tot package instructions.
2. Spread the frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for the recommended time until golden and crispy.
3. Once baked, remove the tater tots from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. While the tots are cooling, prepare the toppings. Use the cheddar cheese to create “tombstones” by cutting them into small rectangles.
5. Arrange the tater tots on a serving platter. Add dollops of sour cream on top to resemble eerie grave markers.
6. Place the cheese tombstones among the tater tots and sprinkle with sliced olives and chopped green onions to resemble grass.
7. Garnish with parsley or chives for a final touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the spooky fun!

Mummy-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles

These Mummy-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a fun and tasty addition to your Halloween feast. The savory asparagus is wrapped in strips of crescent dough, creating a delightful and spooky look that everyone will enjoy. With a mix of flavors and a satisfying crunch, these bundles are sure to impress your guests.

Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also add a touch of creativity to your table. Perfect for both kids and adults, these mummies are a clever way to incorporate vegetables into your Halloween celebrations!

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of asparagus
• 1 can of crescent roll dough
• Olive oil
• Black olives (for eyes)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and trim the asparagus, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Unroll the crescent dough and cut it into thin strips. Wrap these strips around the asparagus, leaving gaps to resemble mummy wrappings.
4. Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Cut black olives in half and place them on the asparagus bundles as eyes.
6. Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.
7. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your spooky side dish!

Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Mushrooms

These Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Mushrooms are a fun and festive side dish for your Halloween festivities. Bursting with flavor, they feature savory mushroom caps filled with a delicious mixture that’s both satisfying and a little spooky. The cheesy topping adds a creamy texture, perfectly complementing the earthy mushrooms.

Making these stuffed mushrooms is easy, making them a great option for both seasoned cooks and those just starting out. They’ll surely be a hit at any Halloween gathering, adding a playful and tasty touch to your spread!

Ingredients

• 12 large portobello mushrooms
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded orange cheese (for decoration)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushroom caps and remove the stems. Set the caps aside.
3. In a bowl, mix the cooked rice, diced bell peppers, cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the rice mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet. Use the shredded orange cheese to create decorative “jack-o’-lantern” faces on top of the mushrooms.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Severed Finger Breadstick Bones

Severed Finger Breadstick Bones are a fun and spooky addition to your Halloween table. These creepy yet tasty breadsticks are made to look like gory severed fingers, but they taste absolutely delightful! With a crispy exterior and a soft inside, they pair perfectly with a dipping sauce, making them a great snack or side dish.

This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect for a last-minute Halloween gathering. Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of these playful treats, especially when served with a side of marinara or a spicy dipping sauce for an extra thrill!

Ingredients

• 1 can of refrigerated breadstick dough
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
• Red food coloring (optional, for effect)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Dough: Open the can of breadstick dough and separate it into individual sticks. Roll each stick into a slightly tapered shape, mimicking a finger.
3. Add Details: Use a knife to make knuckle indentations on each breadstick. You can also use a small piece of dough to form a fingernail at the tip.
4. Brush and Season: Place the shaped breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
5. Bake: Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
6. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. If desired, mix a little red food coloring with your marinara sauce to add a gory touch. Enjoy!

Poison Apple Slaw

This Poison Apple Slaw is a fun and crunchy twist on a classic coleslaw, perfect for your Halloween gatherings. Made with crisp green apples, vibrant green cabbage, and a hint of tangy dressing, this dish has a refreshing taste that’s sure to surprise and delight your guests.

Not only is it simple to throw together, but it also brings a pop of color to your table. The sweetness of the apples balances the crunch of the cabbage, while the dressing ties everything together for a tasty side that pairs well with any main course.

Ingredients

• 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup purple cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup green apples, julienned
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, green apples, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and apple mixture, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Toss again before serving and enjoy this spooky yet delicious slaw!