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    Home » Italian Recipes

    Cheesy Italian Arancini Balls {Italian Rice Balls}

    Modified: Mar 17, 2025 · Published: May 24, 2021 by Vicky · This post may contain affiliate links · 10 Comments

    6568 shares
    • 21
    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video

    Growing up in an Italian family, Sicilian arancini balls were a typical dinner dish, though they also work for Party Appetizer Ideas. Arancini are breaded, fried balls of rice and cheese.

    Making Italian fried rice balls can be time-consuming because of the work involved in making the rice. But I recently discovered a cool shortcut that makes easy arancini in a fraction of the time. Read along to find out how to cook arancini.

    Rice balls make a great side dish or appetizer. They are filled w/ rice & cheese and fried until crisp. They're ready in less than 30 minutes
    Jump to:
    • What Are Arancini Balls?
    • Recipes With Rice
    • Ingredients For Arancini Balls
    • How To Make Rice Balls
    • How to fry arancini rice balls
    • Tips For Making Arancini
    • FAQs For Arancini Balls
    • Deep Fried Recipes
    • Best Tools For Frying
    • Cheesy Recipes
    • 📖 Recipe

    What Are Arancini Balls?

    Arancini are a delicious meal from Sicily and made from cooked rice and cheese (sometimes other fillings). The ingredients are rolled into balls, dredged in breadcrumbs, and fried.

    Typically, arancini di riso (rice balls) are made with white rice which can be time consuming. My secret to easy arancini is to use a quick cooking rice. It really cuts down on the cooking time. You can also use leftover rice to save time.

    Recipes With Rice

    Not only is rice a staple in many cultures, but it's also one of the most versatile ingredients out there. It can be steamed, boiled, or fried. Plus, it's so affordable and easy to cook! Here are some of our favorite recipes that use rice:

    • Make Ahead Broccoli Rice Casserole
    • Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
    • Chicken and Rice Casserole
    • Chicken Enchilada Casserole 

    Ingredients For Arancini Balls

    • White rice - Provides the base for the arancini.
    • Parmesan cheese or parmigiano reggiano - Provides a nutty and salty flavor.
    • Shredded mozzarella - Adds a melty gooey element to the rice balls.
    • Eggs - Help to hold all the ingredients together.
    • Kosher salt - Enhances the flavor of all the ingredients.
    • Black pepper - Adds subtle heat.
    • Oregano - Classic Italian seasoning.
    • Seasoned Italian breadcrumbs - For the coating. They will get crisp when fried.
    • Vegetable oil - For frying. The delicate flavor doesn't detract from the taste of the arancini.
    • Marinara sauce - Warmed up for dipping.
    Ingredients to make arancini balls

    Some people add different ingredients to arancini balls; for instance, my aunt added peas, which I did not like.

    How To Make Rice Balls

    The process of making this arancini balls recipe could not be easier. Cook your rice according to package directions in a large pot.

    rice in a pot

    When the rice is ready, put it in a large bowl and add an egg, some of the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, oregano, Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until thoroughly combined.

    seasoned rice for rice balls

    Use your hands to form into small balls. I made various sized rice balls. When I was a kid my family made large rice balls. If you went to the local pizzerias in the Italian neighborhood where I grew up, the arancini balls were huge - larger than a baseball!

    These days I see rice balls are made much smaller, so make whatever size you prefer. You can also use an ice cream scoop to form the rice balls. Beat two eggs in a shallow bowl and dip the formed rice balls in the egg.

    rice ball dipped in egg

    Next, roll around in the bread crumbs until the ball is completely covered.

    arancini dipped in egg and bread crumbs

    How to fry arancini rice balls

    Place the oil in a pot so that when the arancini are added, the oil will cover or nearly cover them. You can also use a deep saucepan. Heat oil until it is 350 degrees. Using a slotted spoon, drop in balls in batches of four until they are cooked through and the outside has turned a deep golden brown. You can also cook these in a deep fryer.

    frying rice balls in oil

    When you are done deep frying, remove the arancini balls from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt. If you'd like, you can warm up some marinara sauce for dipping and serve the sauce with the rice balls.

    When you open up the deep-fried arancini, you will see all the rice and cheesy goodness inside.

    open arancini with cheese inside

    These arancini rice balls make a great side dish or appetizer. You can also experiment with the ingredients inside. I think bits of cut of salami or pepperoni would taste delicious mixed with the rice. Some make these arancini bites with leftover risotto

    If you are looking to make your rice balls arancini a little healthier, check out this Cauliflower Arancini from Kirbie's Cravings.

    arancini balls on a platter

    Tips For Making Arancini

    Tip 1: Serve these with any Italian dish. I like to serve them with chicken parmesan or a pasta dish for an all-out carb fest!

    Tip 2: If you are having problems getting the rice balls to stick together, you can place them into the refrigerator or freezer for about 10 minutes so they can firm up and stay together when placed in the oil.

    FAQs For Arancini Balls

    What Are Arancini Balls Made Out Of?

    There are many varieties of Arancini, but traditionally they are made out of rice, mozzarella cheese, dipped in breadcrumbs and fried to a golden brown.

    How Do You Store Arancini?

    Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can freeze these by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can remain in the freezer for up to 3 months.

    To reheat arancini, place them in the microwave for a few minutes.

    Deep Fried Recipes

    Have you ever tried making your own deep fryer recipes at home? It's super easy and so delicious. You can make dishes such as fried chicken and onion rings at home for a fraction of what it cost to get at a restaurant.

    • Deep Fried Tortellini
    • Pork Fried Wontons
    • Deep Fried Zucchini
    • Moroccan Fried Chicken

    Best Tools For Frying

    When it comes to frying food, having the right tools makes all the difference. A deep fryer or a heavy pot is essential for holding your oil and keeping the heat steady. You can't skip on a good thermometer either.

    A slotted spoon is your go-to for scooping out the food without adding extra oil. And don't forget the paper towels! They're key for draining off excess oil, giving your food that perfectly crisp finish without the grease.

    All-Clad Electrics Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil Capacity, 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Dishwasher Safe, Easy Clean, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Oil Filtration, SilverAll-Clad Electrics Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil Capacity, 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Dishwasher Safe, Easy Clean, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Oil Filtration, SilverAll-Clad Electrics Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil Capacity, 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Dishwasher Safe, Easy Clean, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Oil Filtration, SilverSecura Stainless-Steel Electric Deep Fryer, 1700W, 4L/17-Cup, Triple Basket with Timer, SilverSecura Stainless-Steel Electric Deep Fryer, 1700W, 4L/17-Cup, Triple Basket with Timer, SilverSecura Stainless-Steel Electric Deep Fryer, 1700W, 4L/17-Cup, Triple Basket with Timer, SilverVinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Saute Pan with Lid, 12in/5.5Qt Fry Pan, German 3C+ Ceramic Coating Technology, Heat Indicator, Induction CompatibleVinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Saute Pan with Lid, 12in/5.5Qt Fry Pan, German 3C+ Ceramic Coating Technology, Heat Indicator, Induction CompatibleVinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Saute Pan with Lid, 12in/5.5Qt Fry Pan, German 3C+ Ceramic Coating Technology, Heat Indicator, Induction CompatibleSwify Spider Strainer Set of 3 Asian Strainer Ladle Stainless Steel Wire Skimmer Spoon with Handle for Kitchen Frying Food, Pasta, Spaghetti, Noodle-30.5cm, 32cm, 35cmSwify Spider Strainer Set of 3 Asian Strainer Ladle Stainless Steel Wire Skimmer Spoon with Handle for Kitchen Frying Food, Pasta, Spaghetti, Noodle-30.5cm, 32cm, 35cmSwify Spider Strainer Set of 3 Asian Strainer Ladle Stainless Steel Wire Skimmer Spoon with Handle for Kitchen Frying Food, Pasta, Spaghetti, Noodle-30.5cm, 32cm, 35cmKerilyn Deep Fryer Pot, 9.4 Inch/3.4 L Janpanese Style Tempura Frying Pot with Lid, 304 Stainless Steel with Temperature Control and Oil Drip Drainer Rack, for Kitchen French Fries, Chicken etcKerilyn Deep Fryer Pot, 9.4 Inch/3.4 L Janpanese Style Tempura Frying Pot with Lid, 304 Stainless Steel with Temperature Control and Oil Drip Drainer Rack, for Kitchen French Fries, Chicken etcKerilyn Deep Fryer Pot, 9.4 Inch/3.4 L Janpanese Style Tempura Frying Pot with Lid, 304 Stainless Steel with Temperature Control and Oil Drip Drainer Rack, for Kitchen French Fries, Chicken etcChefAide Set of 2 Cooking Tongs,600ºF High Heat-Resistant,Kitchen Utensils,Cooking Utensils for Grill,Salad,BBQ,Frying,Baking,Serving 9/12 inchesChefAide Set of 2 Cooking Tongs,600ºF High Heat-Resistant,Kitchen Utensils,Cooking Utensils for Grill,Salad,BBQ,Frying,Baking,Serving 9/12 inchesChefAide Set of 2 Cooking Tongs,600ºF High Heat-Resistant,Kitchen Utensils,Cooking Utensils for Grill,Salad,BBQ,Frying,Baking,Serving 9/12 inches

     

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    📖 Recipe

    cropped-arancini-balls.jpg

    Arancini Balls

    Vicky
    Rice balls make a great side dish or appetizer. They are filled with rice and cheese and fried until crisp. They are ready in less than 30 minutes! You must try this recipe for arancini.
    5 from 6 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 10 minutes mins
    Total Time 20 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine Italian
    Servings 4
    Calories 1472 kcal

    Equipment

    • Deep Fryer

    Video

    Ingredients
      

    • 3 cups quick cook rice cooked
    • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese
    • 1 cup mozzarella
    • 3 eggs 1 for rice mixture and 2 beaten for coating the rice balls

    • ⅛ teaspoon salt
    • dash pepper
    • ½ teaspoon oregano
    • ¾ cup breadcrumbs use ¼ cup of breadcrumbs in rice mixture and ½ cup to bread the rice balls

    • 2 cups oil for frying
    • marinara sauce for dipping

    Instructions
     

    • Prepare the quick cook rice according to package directions.
    • When the rice is ready, allow it to cool and then put it in a large bowl and stir in 1 egg, ¼ cup breadcrumbs, ⅛ teaspoon salt, dash of pepper, ½ teaspoon of oregano, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until thoroughly combined.

    • Use your hands to form into small balls.

    • Beat two eggs in a bowl and dip the formed rice balls in the egg.  Roll the rice balls around in the bread crumbs until they are completely covered.



    • Place the oil in a pan so that when the arancini are added, the oil will cover or nearly cover them. Heat oil until it is 350 degrees. Using a slotted spoon, drop in balls in batches of four until they are cooked through and the outside has turned a deep golden brown.

    • Remove the arancini balls from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt. If you'd like, you can warm up some marinara sauce for dipping and serve the sauce with the rice balls.

    Notes

    • Serve these with any Italian dish. I like to pair them with chicken parm or pasta for a carb fest! 
    • These arancini balls make a great appetizer as well!
    • If you're having trouble getting the rice balls to stick together, you can refrigerate or freeze them for about 10 minutes to firm up and stay together when frying.
    • Note the calorie and fat content listed in the nutritional information is much higher than it actually is since the program I am using is counting the total oil used for frying, not just the oil that is absorbed into the arancini.
    This nutritional information is approximate and was calculated using online calculators. Your nutritional information may vary depending on numerous factors.
     
     

    Nutrition

    Serving: 8gCalories: 1472kcalCarbohydrates: 69gProtein: 20gFat: 125gSaturated Fat: 14gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 149mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 133mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 421IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 289mgIron: 6mg
    Keyword arancini balls, arancini balls recipe, arancini recipe easy, rice balls
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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    Comments

      5 from 6 votes

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Kelly says

      December 23, 2023 at 8:59 am

      Can you make these in the air fryer?

      Reply
      • Vicky says

        December 27, 2023 at 11:04 am

        Yes! Cook at 10 minutes at 370 in the air fryer.

        Reply
        • Erica says

          August 07, 2024 at 4:17 am

          Hi quick question based on 4 servings is that 4 arancini balls or is there more? Just trying to work out as I'm making them for a party. Thanks

        • Vicky says

          August 07, 2024 at 9:17 am

          That is based on 4 balls. Hope you enjoy it!

    2. JJ says

      March 25, 2023 at 10:24 pm

      5 stars
      So good!! Now I know what to do with risotto instead of just reheating. Thank you!

      Reply
    3. Cathy says

      September 30, 2022 at 12:01 pm

      5 stars
      The was very good, I never made them like that, I usually make them same ingredients as you, except I put in ricotta and mozzarella and grated cheese plus but these was good 👍🏻 considering , thanks 😊

      Reply
    4. Sara Welch says

      May 24, 2021 at 2:01 pm

      5 stars
      I had never given these a try until now and I am so glad I did! They were so tasty with the perfect crunch; an excellent side dish; my whole family loved them!

      Reply
    5. Sue says

      May 24, 2021 at 1:37 pm

      5 stars
      Cheesy rice - what perfect kid food this is! I have some leftover rice and I'm going to try this tonight! Thanks!

      Reply
    6. Angela says

      May 24, 2021 at 1:28 pm

      5 stars
      I grew up eating Arancini Balls... they are a favorite of mine! Your recipe is spot on with flavors and texture. Thanks for the great recipe.

      Reply
    7. Serena says

      May 24, 2021 at 1:20 pm

      5 stars
      We love arancini at my house. This is such a simple and quick recipe. I can't wait to give it a try. Yum!

      Reply
    Vicky from Mess for Less

    I'm Vicky, the founder of Mess For Less, which I started in 2011 to share easy, family-friendly recipes. With over a decade of experience as a home chef and recipe developer, I love creating meals that bring people together. I also design play and learning activities for kids, using my background as a former teacher with a Master’s degree in education. Learn more about me.

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