If you have ever craved a crispy, golden appetizer that bursts with creamy mozzarella and rich Parmesan flavors, this Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These Italian rice balls are the perfect combination of crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making each bite a delightful surprise. Whether you serve them as a snack, party appetizer, or a fun dinner treat, these arancini will steal the show with their irresistible texture and comforting taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to mastering this recipe, and luckily, they are simple yet essential to creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- 2 cups cooked risotto or cold cooked rice: The base of your arancini providing that creamy yet firm bite.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to the rice mixture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (cut into small cubes): The ooey-gooey center that melts beautifully inside each ball.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Acts as a binder to hold everything together and for breading.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick firmly to the rice balls.
- 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs: Provides that crispy, golden crust with herby flavor notes.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring out all flavors.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): For achieving that perfect crispy exterior without overpowering the taste.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch at the end.
- Freshly grated Parmesan (for serving): A final sprinkle to heighten the cheese experience.
- Marinara sauce (for dipping): The classic companion that complements the richness of the arancini perfectly.
How to Make Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your cooked risotto or cold cooked rice with the grated Parmesan cheese and one beaten egg. Work this mixture with your hands or a spoon until it holds together nicely, ensuring each grain is coated with cheesy goodness. This blend is what makes this Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe stand out with rich flavor and a sturdy texture for shaping.
Step 2: Shape the Arancini Balls
Take about two tablespoons of the rice mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a cube of shredded mozzarella in the center. Now, carefully fold the rice around the cheese and shape it into a tight, smooth ball. This step is where the magic happens because sealing in the mozzarella ensures a melty surprise when you bite into the crispy shell.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three separate bowls to coat your arancini perfectly: one with flour, another with the second beaten egg, and the last with Italian-style breadcrumbs. Dredge each rice ball first in flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs. This multi-step breading is crucial for achieving that iconic golden crust that defines the Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F. Fry the arancini in batches, turning occasionally for even cooking, until they are beautifully golden and crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This frying step locks in the creamy center while creating a satisfyingly crunchy shell.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the arancini for a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich cheese. Finish with a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan to add an extra layer of cheesy indulgence with every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve your arancini alongside a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping — the tangy tomato pairs fantastically with the cheesy rice balls. You can also add a crisp mixed green salad or sautéed veggies to balance the richness and add a fresh element to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, arrange your arancini on a platter with small ramekins of different dipping sauces like basil pesto, spicy arrabbiata, or a creamy garlic aioli. You might even stuff some arancini with peas or flavorful meat sauce for an exciting twist that keeps every bite interesting and full of surprises.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover arancini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them gently to retain their crispiness and gooey center.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, freeze uncooked arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, fry them straight from frozen, allowing a couple of extra minutes in the oil for thorough cooking.
Reheating
To bring your leftover Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe back to life, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and the cheese less melty.
FAQs
Can I use regular cooked rice instead of risotto?
Absolutely! Cold cooked rice works perfectly if you don’t have risotto, but risotto gives a creamier texture that lifts the recipe to that next-level authenticity.
What’s the best cheese to use inside arancini?
Mozzarella is the traditional choice for a wonderful melt inside, balanced by Parmesan in the rice for sharpness and depth of flavor.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter option, you can brush the arancini with olive oil and bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and crispy, though frying gives the crispest crust.
How do I keep the arancini from falling apart when frying?
Ensure the rice mixture is well bound with egg and cheese and that you form tight balls. Also, the triple breading helps hold them together while frying.
Can I add other fillings besides mozzarella?
Definitely! Get creative with peas, cooked meat sauce, or even mushrooms to add unique flavors to your arancini experience.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that brings people together, filling the kitchen with irresistible aromas and the promise of cheesy heaven. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe box. So go ahead and treat yourself and your friends to this crunchy, melty Italian classic — you won’t regret it!
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Crispy Fried Arancini with Mozzarella and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 arancini balls
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Italian Arancini recipe features crispy, golden-fried rice balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese and flavored with Parmesan. Perfect as a delicious appetizer or snack, these arancini are served warm with marinara sauce for dipping and garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, they are sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked risotto or cold cooked rice
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (cut into small cubes)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For Garnish and Serving
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan (for serving)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the rice mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked risotto or cold rice with grated Parmesan cheese and one beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated, creating a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture suitable for shaping.
- Form the arancini balls: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture into your hand, flatten it slightly, and place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Carefully mold the rice around the cheese to form a tight ball, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.
- Set up the breading station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the second beaten egg, and one with Italian-style breadcrumbs. Roll each rice ball first in the flour to coat evenly, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs for a crispy outer layer.
- Heat oil and fry: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the arancini in batches, turning occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy all over. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the arancini warm, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Accompany them with marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor experience.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, brush arancini lightly with olive oil and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until golden instead of frying.
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding peas or meat sauce inside for a traditional Sicilian twist.
- Make sure the rice mixture is cold and sticky enough to hold its shape when forming balls to prevent breaking during frying.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy arancini.
