These Italian Rice Balls are crispy on the outside and full of cheesy goodness inside! Made with rice, cheese, and a hint of herbs, they’re perfect for snacking or sharing at any gathering.
I’ve found these little bites are always a hit! With a nice golden crust, you might just want to make extra—because they disappear fast! Who can resist? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Arborio Rice: This rice is key for creamy texture. You can try other short-grain rice, like sushi rice, if Arborio isn’t available. It’s important to use leftover rice for best shaping!
Mozzarella Cheese: I love using fresh mozzarella for its gooey melt. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese that melts well, or leave it out for a flavorful rice ball instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great depth. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well to give a cheesy flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I often use panko for a crunchier texture. Regular breadcrumbs are great too! If gluten-free, seek out gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What’s the Best Way to Shape Perfect Rice Balls?
Shaping rice balls can be tricky! Here are some easy steps to create uniform shapes:
- Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
- Use about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture, flatten it in your hand.
- Add cheese and carefully fold the rice around it to form a ball, pressing gently but firmly.
- Ensure there are no gaps; this avoids leaks during frying.
Remember, practice makes perfect, and even if they aren’t perfect, they’ll still be delicious!
Italian Rice Balls (Arancini)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Rice and Cheese:
- 2 cups cooked Arborio rice (preferably cooled or day-old risotto)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (cubed or small pieces)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Coating and Binding:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (panko works well for extra crunch)
Flavor and Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation and shaping, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for frying. Overall, you’ll need about an hour to prepare and enjoy these delicious rice balls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked Arborio rice, grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until evenly combined, making sure not to mush the rice too much.
2. Shape the Rice Balls:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube or pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center. Gently bring the rice mixture around the cheese, shaping it into a firm ball. Repeat this process until you’ve used up all the mixture.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the remaining beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. This will make it easier to coat the rice balls.
4. Coat the Rice Balls:
Take each rice ball and roll it in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Make sure they’re well-covered for a crispy finish!
5. Fry the Rice Balls:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rice balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
6. Drain and Serve:
Remove the rice balls using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Serve warm, with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, and garnish with fresh basil.
Enjoy your deliciously crispy Italian Rice Balls with melty cheese inside and a perfect golden crust! They’re sure to impress your friends and family!
Can I Use Leftover Rice for This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, using day-old Arborio rice or leftover risotto is perfect because it helps the rice balls hold their shape better. Just make sure the rice is cool before you start shaping!
What Oil Is Best for Frying?
Vegetable oil is great for frying due to its high smoke point. You can also use canola oil or peanut oil if you prefer. Just make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the rice balls to achieve that perfect golden color!
Can These Rice Balls Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice balls ahead of time! Shape them and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This allows the flavors to meld while ensuring they stay fresh.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce on hand, you can use ranch dressing or a spicy aioli for dipping instead. Alternatively, a simple olive oil drizzle with herbs would also complement the rice balls beautifully!
