Jumbo Cheesy Italian Meatballs

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup whole milk
• 3 1/2 cups torn stale Italian bread (about 1/4 loaf)
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 2 pounds ground beef chuck
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
• 2 large eggs
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 small bunch parsley, chopped(about 1 cup)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 4 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 3 to 4 sprigs basil, plus chopped leaves for topping
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Ricotta cheese, for topping