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Arancini Rice Balls Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy Italian Rice Balls

These crispy, cheesy arancini rice balls are made with creamy Arborio rice, Parmesan cheese, and a gooey mozzarella center. Coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown, they make a delicious Sicilian-style Italian appetizer served with warm marinara sauce.
Prepr Time 30 minutes
Cooking Time 30 minutes
1 hour
ToTal Time 2 hours
Type of plate Appetizer, Snack
kitchen Italian
Serving 4

Ingredients
  

For the rice mixture

  • 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ small onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg

For the filling

  • 4 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cut into 12 small cubes

For the coating

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 ½ cups plain breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

For frying and serving

  • Vegetable oil or canola oil for frying
  • Warm marinara sauce for serving
  • Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley optional for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened.
  • Add the Arborio rice and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast the grains.
  • Gradually add the warm broth, about 1 cup at a time. Stir regularly and allow each addition to absorb before adding more.
  • Continue cooking for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender, creamy, and thick.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  • Spread the cooked risotto onto a baking sheet or shallow dish. Allow it to cool briefly, then refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until completely cold and firm.
  • Once the rice is cold, mix in 1 beaten egg to help bind the mixture.
  • Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the 2 beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning.
  • Scoop about ¼ cup of the cold rice mixture into your hand and flatten it slightly.
  • Place one mozzarella cube in the center. Fold the rice around the cheese and roll it into a compact ball. Make sure the mozzarella is completely covered.
  • Repeat with the remaining rice mixture and mozzarella.
  • Coat each rice ball first in flour, then in beaten egg, and finally in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well.
  • Heat the frying oil to approximately 350°F–375°F (175°C–190°C).
  • Fry the arancini in small batches for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  • Remove the rice balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  • Allow the arancini to cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with marinara sauce, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Use completely cooled risotto so the arancini are easier to shape.
  • Seal the mozzarella inside the rice to prevent it from escaping during frying.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan because this can lower the oil temperature.
  • You can replace mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or another melting cheese.
  • For a baked version, place the breaded arancini on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and bake at 375°F until crisp and golden.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat them in the oven or air fryer to help maintain their crispy coating.