Pasta Screamavera is a fun and spooky pasta dish perfect for Halloween! With vibrant seasonal veggies, bold flavors, and a touch of drama, this pasta bake is a showstopper. Easy to make and family-friendly, it’s the ideal main course for themed dinners or casual get-togethers. Packed with color and flavor, Pasta Screamavera will be a hit with guests of all ages.
Why Pasta Screamavera is the Perfect Halloween Dish
This colorful pasta bake isn’t just delicious—it’s visually striking! The dark squid ink fusilli pasta paired with bold red and green vegetables creates a spooky and festive look. You can also customize it to your liking, with easy vegetable swaps and variations in the sauce for a creamier or spicier flavor. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween dinner party or making something fun for the family, Pasta Screamavera is guaranteed to impress.
PrintPasta Screamavera
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Pasta Screamavera is a colorful, spooky pasta bake that blends seasonal veggies and bold flavors for a Halloween-ready main dish. With vibrant photos and simple steps, it’s perfect for themed dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
1 cup Mini Pepperoni
8 oz Squid Ink Fusilli Pasta
2 cloves Garlic
1 cup Red Bell Pepper
1 Shallot, medium
1 cup Zucchini
1/2 cup Italian Dressing (Bottled)
1/2 cup Prepared Pesto
1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning
1 Pepper
1 Salt
2 cups Fresh Mozzarella
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2. Cook the squid ink fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3. Chop the red bell pepper, zucchini, and shallot. Mince the garlic.
4. 4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, shallot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. 5. Stir in Italian dressing, pesto, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for a few minutes.
6. 6. Add the cooked pasta and mini pepperoni, stirring gently to combine.
7. 7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with fresh mozzarella.
8. 8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden brown.
9. 9. Let cool slightly and serve with extra pesto or dressing if desired.
Notes
You can swap zucchini and red bell pepper for other veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or butternut squash.
Add heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for a creamier texture.
Spicy? Add red pepper flakes or swap pepperoni for spicy sausage for an extra kick.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Customize Your Pasta Bake
Pasta Screamavera is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Vegetable Swaps: Don’t have zucchini or red bell pepper? Try using mushrooms, spinach, or butternut squash for a different flavor profile.
- Creamier Sauce: Add a few tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese to the pesto and Italian dressing mixture for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or swap out the mini pepperoni for spicy sausage.
Serve with Side Dishes
Pair this Halloween pasta bake with a simple side salad or some crispy garlic bread to round out the meal. You can even serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a lighter, healthier option.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta Screamavera
- Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded mozzarella and gives the bake a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Prepare Ahead of Time: You can assemble the pasta bake a day ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake until bubbly.
Why Pasta Screamavera Will Be a Hit
This colorful pasta bake is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The unique squid ink fusilli pasta and the mix of vibrant vegetables make it visually stunning, while the blend of Italian flavors ensures it’s delicious. It’s an easy yet dramatic dish that’s perfect for a Halloween dinner or a cozy family meal. With simple ingredients and customizable options, Pasta Screamavera will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Final Thoughts
Pasta Screamavera is a fun, flavorful, and spooky main dish that’s sure to be the star of any Halloween gathering. With its striking appearance, customizable flavors, and ease of preparation, it’s the perfect way to impress your guests while serving a delicious, festive meal. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween or just want to enjoy a unique pasta dish, Pasta Screamavera is the ultimate choice!
