Description
Golden and crispy on the outside with a cheesy, savory center, these rich rice balls are a crowd-pleasing favorite that are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked Arborio rice
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the rice, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and one beaten egg.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the second beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Scoop a portion of the rice mixture, flatten it slightly, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and shape it into a ball around the cheese.
- Roll each rice ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel–lined plate before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for better texture and easier shaping.
- Chilling the rice balls before frying helps them hold together.
- Double-coat in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy exterior.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: rich rice balls, arancini, Italian rice balls, cheesy appetizers, crispy snacks