Arancini, golden and crispy on the outside with a creamy, cheesy center, are a beloved Italian street food that’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party dish. These rice balls are traditionally made with risotto and mozzarella, but they can be customized with various fillings for a creative twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile: Endless possibilities for fillings, from classic to innovative.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy comfort food.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and fry when ready to serve.
Crispy and Creamy: The perfect balance of textures in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Arancini:
- Cooked risotto (preferably Arborio rice)
- Mozzarella cheese cubes
- All-purpose flour
- 2–3 large eggs, beaten
- Breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying) or olive oil spray (for air frying)

Optional Add-Ins:

Meat sauce (with peas and tomato paste)
Sautéed mushrooms and spinach
Spicy sausage or ham

Directions

Prepare the Risotto

Cook the Risotto: Prepare your risotto according to your favorite recipe. Let it cool completely in the refrigerator to make it easier to handle.

Shape the Arancini

Form the Balls:
- Scoop a spoonful of cold risotto and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place a cube of mozzarella (or other filling) in the center.
- Wrap the risotto around the filling to form a compact ball.
Coat the Balls:
- Roll each ball in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.

Cook the Arancini

Deep Frying:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the arancini in batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Air Frying:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the arancini with olive oil and place them in a single layer.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.

Serve

Serve hot with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a lemon wedge for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 10–12 arancini
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Traditional: Ground meat, tomato sauce, peas, and mozzarella filling.
Vegetarian: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta.
Seafood: Crab, shrimp, or scallops with lemon zest.
Spicy: Spicy sausage and pepper jack cheese.
Dessert: Sweet risotto with chocolate and hazelnuts, dusted with powdered sugar.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freeze: Freeze uncooked or cooked arancini on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Bake frozen arancini at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes or until heated through.

Tips and Tricks

Use Arborio Rice: Its high starch content makes the risotto creamy and perfect for arancini.
Cool the Risotto: Chilled risotto is easier to shape and less sticky.
Double-Coating: Ensures an extra-crispy shell.
Experiment with Fillings: Get creative with combinations like ham and cheese, spicy sausage, or even dessert options.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover risotto?

Yes, leftover risotto is perfect for making arancini.

2. Can I bake arancini instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.

3. What dipping sauce pairs best with arancini?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but garlic aioli or pesto are great alternatives.

4. Can I make arancini gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

5. Can I make arancini in advance?

Shape and bread the arancini, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.

6. Are arancini suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, use vegetarian fillings like spinach and cheese or mushrooms.

7. What’s the best oil for frying arancini?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are ideal for deep frying.

8. Can I use sushi rice instead of Arborio rice?

Yes, sushi rice can be a good substitute due to its sticky texture.

9. How do I prevent arancini from falling apart?

Chill the risotto and pack the rice tightly around the filling. Ensure a thorough breading for stability.

10. What should I serve with arancini?

Pair them with a crisp salad, marinara sauce, or even a charcuterie board for variety.

Conclusion

Italian Arancini are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a taste of Italy at home. With their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy center, these rice balls are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Whether you stick with traditional fillings or try creative variations, arancini are sure to be a hit. Try making them today and savor the satisfaction of this iconic Italian treat!