Rice Ball (Arancini)

Rice Balls, also called Arancini, are a delicious Italian treat made from creamy risotto that’s shaped into balls, stuffed with cheese or meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown. They are crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, making them a favorite snack or appetizer around the world. The word “arancini” means “little oranges” in Italian, named because of their round shape and golden color when fried.

Arancini can be enjoyed as a snack, party food, or even a full meal depending on the size. They are also a great way to use leftover risotto or rice. These crunchy rice balls are loved by both kids and adults, and they are perfect for family dinners or weekend get-togethers.

You Should Try the Rice Ball (Arancini)

You should definitely try making Arancini at home because they are easy, fun, and delicious. Kids will love helping shape the rice into little balls, and everyone will enjoy the gooey cheese surprise inside. This recipe is also very customizable you can fill them with mozzarella, peas, ham, or even leftover meat sauce.

Making Arancini is also a great way to reduce food waste. If you have leftover rice or risotto from last night’s dinner, you can turn it into something exciting and new. Plus, nothing beats the joy of biting into a crunchy rice ball and finding a melty cheese center.

Ingredients for Rice Ball (Arancini)

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Rice Ball Arancini

• 3 cups cooked risotto or short-grain rice cooled
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese cut into small cubes
• 2 eggs beaten
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying vegetable or canola oil works best

How to Make Rice Ball (Arancini)

Step One

The first thing you need to do is prepare the rice base. If you don’t have any risotto leftover, cook short grain rice such as Arborio and mix it with a little Parmesan cheese and butter. Let it cool completely before shaping it.

Step Two

Now, form the balls. Take about two tablespoons of rice in your hand, press a small cube of mozzarella cheese or filling into the center, and gently shape it into a ball. Repeat until you’ve used all the rice. Then, coat the balls. Dip each ball first in flour, then in beaten egg, and finally in breadcrumbs until completely coated.

Step Three

And now you have it: Heat the oil. Pour enough oil into a frying pan to fry the rice balls. Heat the oil to about 175°C (350°F). Then fry the rice balls. Gently place a few rice balls at a time in the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step Four

Drain and serve. Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the arancini, then place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

Kitchen Equipment Needed :

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Plate or tray for shaping rice balls
• Small bowl for beaten eggs
• Shallow bowl for breadcrumbs
• Slotted spoon
• Deep frying pan or pot
• Paper towels for draining
• Thermometer optional, but helpful for frying

Tips for the Perfect Greek Pasta Salad

Use Cold Rice: Cold rice sticks together better, making it easier to shape the balls.

Double Coat: For extra crunch, dip the rice balls in egg and breadcrumbs twice before frying.

Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady.

Cheese Choices: Try smoked mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a twist.

Serving Suggestion

I like to serve this Arancini to my family with dipping sauces and a great side salad, and for drinks I like to serve fruit juice or a refreshing drink for extra freshness.

Frequently Asked Question

Can I make arancini with any type of rice ?

Yes, but short grain rice like Arborio works best because it’s sticky and holds its shape well. Long-grain rice may fall apart more easily.

Can I fill arancini with meat or veggies ?

Yes! Popular fillings include cooked ground beef, peas, ham, mushrooms, or even leftover ragù.

Can I freeze arancini before cooking ?

Yes! Bread them, then freeze on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Fry straight from frozen.

Can I air fry arancini ?

Yes! Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden.

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