Get ready for a fun spooky treat with Skull Potatoes and Bone Breadsticks! These creamy mashed potatoes are shaped like skulls, perfect for any Halloween party.
The bone breadsticks are crispy and make great dippers! Every time I make them, they disappear faster than I can serve them. Who knew spooky food could be this tasty? 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are great for shaping into skulls, but any small, waxy potatoes work well. If you don’t have small potatoes, try using larger ones cut into manageable sizes.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the spices stick. You can substitute with melted butter for a different flavor, or use a spray oil for a lighter touch.
Smoked Paprika: This gives the potatoes a smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can add a nice kick.
Refrigerated Dough: Use store-bought breadstick dough for ease. If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own bread dough. Gluten-free dough can also be a great substitute if you’re catering to dietary needs.
How Do I Ensure My Skull Potatoes Look Great?
Creating the skull shape can be a fun but tricky part. Here’s how to make sure yours turn out well:
- Use a small rounded spoon or melon baller to scoop out the eye sockets and nose. Go slowly to avoid making deep cuts.
- Don’t rush the carving; practice makes perfect, and you want to keep the integrity of the potato.
- After baking, let them cool slightly before serving. This helps firm them up a bit, and they will hold their shape better!
What’s the Best Way to Shape Bone Breadsticks?
Shaping your bone breadsticks can be fun! Here’s a simple way to get them right:
- Roll small pieces of dough into strips. Aim for even shapes, about 1/2 inch wide.
- To shape each end like a bone, pinch them slightly and form round knobs for the “bone heads.” This gives them a realistic look.
- Brush them with butter right before baking. It adds a nice flavor and helps them brown up beautifully!
These tips and tricks help create an eye-catching and delicious dish for your next gathering! Enjoy the preparation just as much as the fun you’ll have serving it.
How to Make Skull Potatoes with Bone Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Skull Potatoes:
- 12 small whole potatoes (preferably baby potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh or dried parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Bone Breadsticks:
- 1 package of refrigerated breadstick dough or pizza dough (about 8 oz)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional:
- Mustard or aioli for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This spooky treat takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30-40 minutes to bake the potatoes and breadsticks. In total, you’ll spend about 50-55 minutes creating these fun skulls and bones, perfect for any Halloween gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your skull potatoes and bone breadsticks don’t stick while they bake.
2. Prepare Skull Potatoes:
Wash and dry your small whole potatoes thoroughly. Using a small rounded spoon or a melon baller, carefully carve out eye sockets and a nose shape on each potato to create skull faces. Ensure the indentations aren’t too deep, so you don’t cut all the way through!
Place the potatoes in a bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle on the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until all the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
3. Bake the Potatoes:
Arrange your skull potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until they are tender and golden. To check for tenderness, you can poke them with a fork or skewer. If you want them extra crispy, turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes, but keep a close eye to make sure they don’t burn!
4. Prepare Bone Breadsticks:
While your potatoes are baking, roll out the refrigerated breadstick or pizza dough on a clean surface. Cut the dough into strips about 1/2 inch wide and 5-6 inches long.
To shape the breadsticks like bones, pinch the ends slightly and create rounded shapes for the “bone heads.” Lay the shaped breadsticks on a separate parchment-lined baking tray. Brush them with melted butter, and sprinkle garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt on top.
5. Bake the Breadsticks:
Now, place the bone breadsticks in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden and cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is baked, carefully arrange the skull potatoes alongside the bone breadsticks in a basket or serving tray. Garnish the potatoes with some chopped parsley for an extra touch of festivity.
Serve with mustard or aioli for dipping, and enjoy your spooky and delicious Skull Potatoes with Bone Breadsticks!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes work best for shaping skulls, any small, waxy potatoes can work. Just ensure they’re not too large to carve easily.
How Do I Store Leftover Potatoes and Breadsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results, or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make this Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute for the breadsticks and ensure to use plant-based dipping options. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly!
What’s the Best Way to Serve These?
These Skull Potatoes and Bone Breadsticks are great as a fun appetizer or snack. Pair them with a tasty dip like mustard, aioli, or even a spicy salsa for a flavorful touch!