Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes, until it’s tender but still firm to the bite.
Drain the pasta in a strainer, reserving a cup of starchy pasta water, and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to shimmer and smell nutty, about 1 minute.
Add the crushed garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until it turns golden and releases a savory aroma.
Stir in the tomato sauce and a splash of the reserved pasta water, letting it simmer gently until warmed through and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce, feeling silky and vibrant. Spoon some sauce onto plates to create ghostly shapes for a spooky effect.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the hot pasta and finish with a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper. Add optional toppings like olives or edible eyes to bring your creepy creation to life.
Serve immediately while steaming hot, enjoying the gooey cheese and spooky presentation that will delight both kids and adults alike!
