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Italian Arancini

Irresistible Italian Arancini: The Best Comfort Food Delight

Italian Arancini are delightful stuffed risotto balls that are perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 4 arancini
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice This short-grain rice is crucial for a creamy risotto texture.
  • Salt Key seasoning.
  • Pepper Key seasoning.
For the Filling
  • Mozzarella Cheese Adds delightful gooeyness; swap for dairy-free cheese if needed.
  • Ground Meat Optional; use sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
  • Spinach Fresh veggie option.
  • Mushrooms Fresh veggie option.
For Breading and Frying
  • 2 pieces Eggs Helps the breadcrumbs stick.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs Create an irresistible crunch; gluten-free options work well.
  • Vegetable or Avocado Oil Essential for frying.
For Serving
  • Marinara Sauce Delicious for dipping or drizzling over the arancini.

Equipment

  • Deep frying pan
  • Shallow Dish
  • Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Arancini
  1. Prepare the Risotto: Rinse 1 cup of Arborio rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine the rice with 3 cups of broth and simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, and let it cool for at least an hour in the refrigerator.
  2. Form the Balls: Scoop out a portion of risotto, flatten it slightly, place a square of mozzarella cheese in the center, fold the rice around the cheese and shape it into a tight ball.
  3. Coat the Balls: Whisk 2 eggs in one shallow dish and place panko breadcrumbs in another. Roll each risotto ball first in the beaten eggs, then coat it thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
  4. Fry the Arancini: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a batch of arancini to the hot oil, fry for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Drain and Serve: Place the arancini on paper towels, then transfer them to a serving platter. Serve hot with marinara sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1aranciniCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftover arancini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Bake frozen arancini at 350°F for 15-20 minutes for reheating.

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