This Italian Meatballs Recipe From a Popular Toronto Restaurant Will Ruin You for All Others

Want to make an easy Italian appetizer that impresses? Meatballs might sound simple, but they’re rich, tender, saucy, and packed with flavor in every bite.

If you’ve ever had a meatball that made you pause mid-bite and whisper “what is this sorcery?” then you’ll understand why I’m obsessed with the meatballs at Pizzeria Libretto. This recipe is straight from the kitchen of one of Toronto’s most beloved Italian spots.

It’s comforting, bold, and just the right amount of rustic. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something cozy, these meatballs are about to become your go-to.

Now you can “travel to Toronto” and get a taste of Italy because, thanks to Chef Rocco Agostino, we’ve got the inside scoop on how to make them at home.

More recipes? We have more signature recipes from Toronto restaurants or try Ninja Speedi Italian Meatball Soup.

What Are Italian Meatballs?

Let’s clear something up: not all meatballs are created equal.

Italian meatballs are all about balance: meat, herbs, cheese, and just enough breadcrumbs to hold it all together. They’re usually simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served with crusty bread or pasta.

Non-Italian versions? They vary. Swedish meatballs lean creamy and spiced. American-style meatballs and gravy often go heavy on the breadcrumbs and seasoning.

But Italian meatballs? They’re the blueprint. And Pizzeria Libretto’s version nails it.

Why You’ll Love This Meatballs Recipe

This meatball recipe is my take on the recipe my mother used to make when I was growing up. Easy to make, slightly spicy, and a smokey sweetness from the roasted red peppers, giving it a familiar characteristic on a dish that I enjoyed many times over.

Adding pasta to these tasty meatballs is an option, but enjoying them on their own and using a crostino (grilled bread) to wipe up the sauce on the plate is a great way to enjoy this recipe

– Chef Rocco Agostino

• The flavor is next-level thanks to roasted red peppers, fresh herbs, and Parmigiano.
• The sauce is spicy, garlicky, and made with San Marzano tomatoes (aka tomato royalty).
• It’s beginner-friendly but tastes like something you’d get at a trattoria in Rome.

Plus, be sure to try Pizzeria Libretto in Toronto for delicious Neapolitan Pizza and Italian fare. They’ve been one of my favourite restaurants for Italian pizza for the longest time.

The recipe and image for Meatballs was provided by Pizzeria Libretto to be included in this list of Toronto Restaurants Signature Recipes. If you made this Toronto recipe, share you creation on Instagram, and tag @pizzerialibretto and @travellingfoodie.

What You Need for Italian Meatballs

Equipment

• Mixing bowl: Big enough to handle all that meat and mix-ins.
• Ice cream scoop: For perfectly portioned meatballs.
• Sheet pan and parchment paper: Keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
• Large pot: You’ll need room for the sauce and meatballs to simmer together.
• Oven: For baking the meatballs and crostini to golden perfection.

Ingredients

• Ground beef, pork, and pork belly: The trifecta for juicy, flavorful meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs and egg: The binders that keep everything together.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, oregano): They brighten up the richness.
• Roasted red peppers: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness.
• Parmigiano cheese: Salty, nutty, and essential.
• San Marzano tomatoes: The gold standard for Italian sauces.
• Bomba: A spicy Italian condiment that brings heat and complexity.
• Crostini: Because meatballs deserve a crunchy sidekick.

How to Make Meatballs from Pizzeria Libretto

Here’s how you can make these Italian meatballs:

1. Mix all the meatball ingredients in a big bowl until well combined
2. Scoop and roll into tight balls, then bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
4. Add pureed San Marzano tomatoes, basil, bomba, and salt. Simmer.
5. Add the baked meatballs and their drippings to the sauce. Simmer for 15 minutes.
6. While that’s happening, brush crostini with olive oil and bake until golden.
7. Plate three meatballs per serving, spoon sauce over each, sprinkle with Parmigiano, and serve with crostini.

FAQs and Helpful Tips for Italian Meatballs

If it’s your first time making Italian meatballs, don’t worry. Here are a few tips and tricks to help.

About Pizzeria Libretto Toronto

Pizzeria Libretto is a Toronto institution. Known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas and rustic Italian fare, it’s the kind of place where everything feels warm and welcoming.

Chef Rocco Agostino is the culinary mind behind the menu, and his meatballs are a fan favorite. They’re simple, soulful, and exactly what you want from Italian comfort food.

What Dishes To Serve With Italian Meatballs

Here’s what you can serve with Italian meatballs:

• Crusty Air Fryer Garlic Bread to scoop up that delicious sauce.
• Pea salad
• Burrata with grilled peaches
• Ninja Speedi Mashed Potatoes
• A rich and savory Ravioli Caprese.

Pizzeria Libretto’s Meatballs Recipe

Be sure to bookmark/save/pin this post so you know how to make meatballs from Pizzeria Libretto Toronto at home!

I would love to see how this recipe worked for you! Please share your creations with me on social media and tag me so I can check them out: @TravellingFoodie on Instagram & Facebook and @TravellinFoodie on Twitter.

Hope this Meatballs recipe gives you an idea on what appetizer or entree to make for your next lunch or dinner. This Italian food is proof that something simple can come together for something truly refreshing.

This recipe is a keeper. It’s got heart, heat, and a whole lot of flavor. Let me know what other Italian dish or appetizer recipes you’d like to see or from which Toronto restaurant.