SPECTRUM NEWS VIDEO: Cardona’s Market in Albany served its popular meatballs for National Meatball Day this week. The specialty Italian market has been family owned and operated for 75 years. The meatballs are the original recipe from the Cardonas’ grandfather and grandmother. It’s now being passed down to the third generation of brothers who are running the store. Rob Cardona Jr. shared the popular meatballs recipe with us.

To make 16-20 three-ounce meatballs:

  • 2 pounds beef/pork/veal, ground (60-30-10)
  • 2 extra-large eggs
  • 1/2 pound of plain bread crumbs
  • 1 1/4 cups of cold water
  • 3 tbsp. parsley
  • 1 tbsp. & 1 tsp. salt
  • 2 tsp. Italian seasoning
  • 2 tsp. granulated garlic
  • 1 tsp. black pepper
  • 3 tbsp. grated parmigiana cheese

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix until thoroughly combined. Scoop into three-ounce balls with an ice cream scoop, or use your desired size. Place meatballs on an oiled sheet pan and bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Serve with your favorite sauce.