Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsDurant'sChef Lupino's Meatballs Recipe

Chef Lupino's Meatballs Recipe

Inspired by Durant's
Time1h
Serves4

prime beef + pork vodka sauce - family recipe

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Ingredients

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Meatball Ingredients

Vodka Sauce Ingredients

Method

Meatball Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

  2. 2

    Shape the Meatballs

    Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  3. 3

    Cook the Meatballs

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Vodka Sauce Preparation

  1. 4

    Sauté Onion and Garlic

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  2. 5

    Add Tomatoes and Vodka

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.

  3. 6

    Finish the Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and chopped basil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combining Meatballs and Sauce

  1. 7

    Combine and Serve

    Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the skillet with the vodka sauce. Gently toss to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Serve immediately over pasta or with crusty bread.

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