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crispy italian rice balls

Italian Rice Balls (Arancini)

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These golden, crispy arancini feature a crunchy breadcrumb coating that gives way to creamy, cheesy risotto and a gooey mozzarella center. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, these versatile Italian rice balls make perfect appetizers, snacks, or party food.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 balls
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 185

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ounces mozzarella cheese cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
  • cup butter melted
  • 1-2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 3 eggs divided (2 for mixture, 1 for coating)
  • cups arborio rice cooked
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped (or 1-2 teaspoons dried)
  • cup Parmesan cheese grated (or Romano cheese)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh garlic minced (or ½-1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 2 teaspoons seasoning salt
  • flour for coating
  • oil for deep-frying

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Deep fryer or heavy pot
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, lightly beat 2 eggs. Add the cooked arborio rice, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, seasoning salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  2. Refrigerate the rice mixture for approximately 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to form the balls.
  3. Once chilled, scoop enough rice mixture to form a 1½-inch ball. Press your thumb into the center to create a pocket, then insert a small cube of mozzarella cheese. Reshape the rice around the cheese to seal it completely.
  4. Set up a three-bowl dredging station: one with flour, another with the remaining beaten egg, and the third with breadcrumbs.
  5. Roll each rice ball first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage at each step.
  6. Heat oil to 375°F in a deep fryer or heavy pot. If you don't have a thermometer, test by dropping in a breadcrumb - it should sizzle immediately without burning.
  7. Carefully lower the coated rice balls into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Transfer the fried arancini to paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcal

Notes

For best results, use arborio or short-grain rice as they create the creamiest interior texture. These rice balls can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before frying. For a make-ahead option, form and coat the balls, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
Serve arancini with warm marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. Leftover arancini can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

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