Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs with the milk. Allow the mixture to soak for approximately 5 minutes.

Place the garlic cloves, parsley, and quartered onion in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely minced, ensuring to scrape down the sides as necessary.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, parsley, and onion mixture with the ground veal, soaked breadcrumbs, ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, and salt. Gently mix the ingredients just until they are fully incorporated, taking care not to over-mix, which could result in tougher meatballs.

Shape the mixture into 18-20 meatballs, each approximately 2.5 inches in diameter. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, then brush them lightly with olive oil or spray with cooking oil.

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. For a deeper color, consider broiling the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

While the meatballs are baking, begin preparing the tomato sauce. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Pour the marinara sauce or tomato passata into the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the skillet with the sauce. Cook the meatballs in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, partially covering the skillet.

Just before serving, dollop small amounts of ricotta cheese onto the meatballs, using a small scoop. Allow the cheese to warm through.

Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or parsley, as desired, and serve the meatballs with your preferred pasta. Enjoy the meal.