Perfection in Every Bite: The Art of Meatballs at Deluca’s Pizza!
By Greg Bell - South Central Sales Manager for Perfect Crust Pizza Liners & Incredible Bags
Some dishes don’t need an introduction. They arrive at the table and immediately command your full attention. At Deluca's Pizza in Little Rock, these meatballs do exactly that! Serving as both a tribute to tradition and a testament to craftsmanship. Founded by Anthony Valinoti and executed to perfection by Manager and Chef Jimmie Debray, this dish reflects a deep respect for ingredients, technique, and Italian-American heritage.
What sets these meatballs apart begins with the foundation: premium 81/19 ground chuck. This ratio delivers the ideal balance of flavor and moisture, ensuring each meatball remains tender, juicy, and rich without becoming heavy. They’re made fresh daily, never prepared days in advance or reheated. That commitment to freshness is immediately noticeable in both texture and taste the meat is delicate, flavorful, and cooked to absolute perfection.
The sauce follows the same philosophy: let great ingredients speak for themselves. Rather than masking the tomatoes with excessive seasoning, the kitchen uses a restrained hand, allowing the natural character of Bianca Di Napoli tomatoes to shine. Known for their exceptional balance of sweetness and acidity, these tomatoes create a marinara that is vibrant, clean, and deeply satisfying. The result is a sauce that enhances the meatballs instead of competing with each bite tasting honest, bright, and intentional.
To finish, the dish is topped with 24-month aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, adding a nutty, savory depth that ties everything together. The cheese melts slightly into the warmth of the meatballs and sauce, creating a rich, umami finish that elevates the entire experience. A dollop of whipped ricotta adds a cool, creamy contrast, while fresh basil introduces a final note of freshness.
The presentation is rustic yet refined. Three beautifully formed meatballs rest in a pool of marinara, accompanied by thick slices of toasted bread that are crisp on the outside and soft within. The bread isn’t just an accessory, it’s essential. It allows you to soak up every bit of the remarkable sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
What makes these meatballs even more special is their versatility. You can enjoy them as a standalone appetizer, served with marinara and ricotta, where they shine as the centerpiece. They can also be added to one of Deluca’s acclaimed pizzas, bringing their rich flavor into every slice. For a more traditional experience, they’re served alongside bucatini pasta and covered in the restaurant’s house-made spaghetti sauce, creating a timeless combination that delivers comfort and authenticity in every bite.
This dish represents more than just a menu item it represents a philosophy inspired by Anthony’s studies in Naples adopted from his matriarch mentor Anna A who taught him “you always to remember when you cook, you’re just expressing your emotions though your food!’ It’s about respecting ingredients, honoring tradition, and executing every step with care. From the choice of 81/19 ground chuck to the use of world-class tomatoes, to the finishing touch of aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, every detail matters.
In a world where shortcuts are common, these meatballs stand as a reminder of what happens when nothing is rushed and nothing is compromised. At Deluca’s Pizza in Little Rock, these meatballs aren’t just served. They’re crafted.
