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Cheesy Italian Arancini Balls Recipe

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Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Cheesy Italian Arancini Balls are made with Arborio rice, gooey mozzarella, and a golden breadcrumb coating. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party favorite.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 arancini balls
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Arborio rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 4 cups warm chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed (optional)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • Olive oil, for frying
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat in the butter.
  3. Gradually add warm chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring until absorbed. Continue until rice is tender and creamy (18–20 minutes).
  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Let risotto cool completely.
  5. Take a spoonful of cooled risotto, flatten it, and place a cube of mozzarella or cheddar in the center. Shape into a ball. Repeat with remaining rice.
  6. Dip each rice ball in beaten eggs, then roll in Panko breadcrumbs until coated.
  7. Heat olive oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry arancini in batches for 3–4 minutes, until golden and crispy.
  8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  9. Serve warm with marinara sauce or enjoy on their own.

Notes

  • Cool the risotto fully before forming balls to help them hold together.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • To bake instead of fry, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
  • Great make-ahead option—prepare and refrigerate before frying or baking.
  • Freeze uncooked or cooked arancini for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/cheesy-italian-arancini-balls-recipe/