Best Meatballs Ever

Directions

1. 1
   Mince and mash garlic to a paste with a pinch of salt.
2. 2
   Tear bread into large pieces, then soak in milk until very soft, about 5 minutes.
3. 3
   Squeeze out and discard excess milk.
4. 4
   Mix together bread, garlic paste, 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and remaining ingredients except oil in a large bowl with your hands, breaking up any large pieces of bread, until combined well.
5. 5
   Form meat mixture into 18 (2-inch) balls with dampened hands.
6. 6
   Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then brown meatballs in 2 batches, turning frequently, 3 to 5 minutes per batch.
7. 7
   Drain on paper towels.
8. 8
   Arrange meatballs in 1 layer in a 3-quart shallow baking dish.
9. 9
   Cover with 1 quart sauce (reserve remainder for another use), then cover dish tightly with foil and bake until meatballs are cooked through, about 30 minutes.