Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsSt. Amand Kitchen & CocktailsSignature Meatballs Recipe

Signature Meatballs Recipe

Time1h 15m
Serves4

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

Method

Prepare the Meatballs

  1. 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. 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. 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

  1. 4

    Sauté the Onions and Garlic

    In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  1. 7

    Add Mozzarella

    After 30 minutes, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs. Cover and let it melt for about 5 minutes.

  2. 8

    Toast the Ciabatta

    While the cheese melts, toast the ciabatta bread slices in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown.

  3. 9

    Serve

    Serve the meatballs topped with fresh basil leaves alongside the toasted ciabatta bread.

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