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Classic Cheesy Arancini Rice Balls

Close-up of crispy, golden brown rice balls, one broken open revealing a melted cheese center.
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Make homemade Italian rice balls that are crispy outside and filled with gooey mozzarella cheese. This recipe guides you through creating authentic, comforting arancini perfect for appetizers or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked Arborio rice (cooled)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 1/2 cups plain breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for crispiness)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled Arborio rice, butter, Parmesan cheese, 1 lightly beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
  2. Place the shredded mozzarella cheese in a small bowl.
  3. Take about 1/4 cup of the rice mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place about 1 teaspoon of mozzarella cheese in the center. Gently fold the rice around the cheese, shaping it into a tight ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Repeat until all the rice mixture is used.
  4. Set up a standard breading station: place flour in one shallow dish, the 2 beaten eggs in a second dish, and the breadcrumbs in a third dish.
  5. Dredge each rice ball first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it completely into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Finally, roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
  6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
  7. Carefully place 3 or 4 rice balls into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove the fried rice balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  9. Serve your crispy rice balls immediately with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Use leftover risotto if you have it; this recipe works best with slightly sticky rice.
  • For a make-ahead option, form the balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
  • If you prefer baking over frying, lightly spray the breaded balls with cooking spray and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/classic-cheesy-arancini-rice-balls/