Signature Meatballs Recipe
Carlo’s world-famous braised meatballs, house made marinara, mozzarella, fresh basil, toasted ciabatta bread
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Ingredients
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Meatballs
Marinara Sauce
Finishing Touches
Method
Prepare the Meatballs
- 1
Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- 2
Form the Meatballs
Scoop out a portion of the mixture (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and roll into a ball shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used, placing the meatballs on a baking sheet.
- 3
Brown the Meatballs
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides for about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Marinara Sauce
- 4
- 5
Add Tomatoes and Season
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Add chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
- 6
Combine Meatballs with Sauce
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, submerging them in the sauce. Cover and let simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish the Dish
- 7
Add Mozzarella
After 30 minutes, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs. Cover and let it melt for about 5 minutes.
- 8
Toast the Ciabatta
While the cheese melts, toast the ciabatta bread slices in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown.
- 9
Serve
Serve the meatballs topped with fresh basil leaves alongside the toasted ciabatta bread.

