Arancini Italian Rice Balls

These Arancini Italian Rice Balls are a crispy, golden-brown delight filled with cheesy goodness and savory flavors. With a crunchy exterior and a warm, melty interior, these rice balls make a perfect appetizer or snack. They’re a delicious way to use leftover risotto, and with a simple marinara dipping sauce, they’ll have everyone coming back for more!

Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!

Why You’ll Love Arancini Italian Rice Balls

• Crispy on the Outside: The breading creates a crunchy, golden crust.
• Cheesy Center: A gooey cheese filling makes each bite a delicious treat.
• Perfect for Leftovers: If you have leftover risotto, these rice balls are the perfect way to repurpose them.
• Versatile: You can customize the filling to suit your taste, whether with meat, vegetables, or extra cheese.

Ingredients for Arancini Italian Rice Balls

To make these delicious rice balls, you’ll need:

For the Rice Balls:

• 2 cups leftover risotto (preferably cold)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed (or any cheese of your choice)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Dipping Sauce (Optional):

• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls: To prepare the rice ball mixture and breading.
• Shallow dish: For the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the rice balls.
• Paper towels: To drain excess oil after frying.
• Small bowl: For marinara sauce, if using.

How to Make Arancini Italian Rice Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Ball Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the leftover risotto, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until evenly combined.

Step 2: Shape the Rice Balls

1. With wet hands (to prevent sticking), scoop out a small amount of the rice mixture, about the size of a golf ball.
2. Press a small cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each ball and then seal it, rolling it into a tight ball shape.

Step 3: Coat the Rice Balls

1. Prepare a breading station with three shallow dishes:
   • In the first dish, place the flour.
   • In the second dish, beat the egg.
   • In the third dish, place the breadcrumbs.
2. Dip each rice ball into the flour, coating it lightly.
3. Next, dip it into the egg, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Finally, roll the rice ball in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coat.

Step 4: Fry the Rice Balls

1. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully drop the rice balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the rice balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve your crispy Arancini Italian Rice Balls hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and extra flavor!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich, cheesy rice balls perfectly.
• Serve as an appetizer or snack: These rice balls are perfect for parties or gatherings.
• Add more filling options: You can mix in chopped meat, vegetables, or extra seasonings to change up the flavor.

Tips for the Best Arancini

• Use cold risotto: Cold risotto is easier to shape into balls and will hold together better during frying.
• Experiment with fillings: Try adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or even a few olives to the center for a twist.
• Fry in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the rice balls fry evenly and get that perfect golden color.

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in the fridge: Keep any leftover rice balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can shape the rice balls and store them in the fridge for up to a day before frying. Just coat them in breadcrumbs and fry when ready.

Q2: Can I freeze Arancini?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked rice balls for up to 1 month. Fry them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.

Q3: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply skip any meat fillings and keep the cheese and rice as the main ingredients.

Conclusion: A Crispy, Cheesy Italian Delight!

These Arancini Italian Rice Balls are an irresistible combination of crispy, golden exteriors and cheesy, gooey interiors. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or part of your main meal, they’ll surely be a hit at your table!

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your culinary creations.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Rice Ball):
Calories: 150 | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 250mg

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy rice balls and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen!

Print