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Cheesy Arancini Rice Balls


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with these Cheesy Arancini Rice Balls! Made with creamy risotto, stuffed with gooey mozzarella, and fried to golden perfection, they’re the ultimate crispy, cheesy treat. Perfect for appetizers or a fun twist on leftovers!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Risotto:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 3 cups vegetable stock (warm)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Arancini:

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (cubed)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Make the Risotto Base:

  1. Cook the onion:
    • Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Cook the rice:
    • Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add the warm vegetable stock, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed. Repeat until the rice is tender and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cool the risotto:
    • Spread the cooked risotto on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before proceeding (refrigerate for faster cooling).

Prepare the Arancini:

  1. Form the balls:
    • Take a small handful of cooled risotto and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then form the risotto around it to create a ball. Repeat with remaining risotto and mozzarella.
  2. Set up the breading station:
    • Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Roll each rice ball in flour, dip it in the eggs, and coat it with breadcrumbs.
  3. Fry the arancini:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rice balls in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 2–3 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.

Serve:

  • Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy them plain!

Notes

  • For an air-fryer version, spray the breaded rice balls with olive oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Add finely diced cooked meat, peas, or mushrooms for a classic arancini variation.
  • Leftover risotto works perfectly for this recipe.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian