Jacks Meatball Sliders

Name: Jack's Meatball Sliders
Ingredients: 4 or 5 cloves garlic, chopped (not too small; larger chunks, about 1/4 inch); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound ground sausage (preferably spicy pork); 1/2 cup finely chopped onion; 1/4 cup minced garlic; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup grated parmesan, plus more for garnish; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 12 ounces ricotta cheese; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; Olive oil; 33 slider-size potato buns, toasted