Chef John's Ricotta Meatballs

INGREDIENTS

1/2

onion, minced

2 tbsp

olive oil

3 cloves

garlic, minced

1 lb

ground beef

1 cup

whole milk ricotta cheese

1/4 cup

packed chopped Italian parsley

egg, beaten

1 1/2 tsp

kosher salt

1/2 tsp

freshly ground black pepper

1 pinch

cayenne pepper, or to taste

1/3 cup

dry bread crumbs

2 tbsp

olive oil

jar marinara sauce

1 cup

water