Golden Baked Arancini with Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Baked arancini are golden, crispy rice balls filled with melted cheese, offering a deliciously satisfying snack or appetizer. This lighter version is baked instead of fried, making it a healthier choice without compromising on flavor or texture.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, beat the eggs. Take a small handful of cooked rice and flatten it in your palm.
3. Step 3: Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center of the rice, then mold the rice around it to form a ball, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.
4. Step 4: Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, then roll it in breadcrumbs until completely coated.
5. Step 5: Arrange the coated rice balls on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for extra flavor.
• For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice mixture before shaping.
• Try adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or basil into the rice for freshness.
• If you prefer, lightly spray or brush the arancini with olive oil before baking for extra crispiness.

Storage

Store leftover baked arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover rice to make arancini?

Yes, leftover cold rice works well because it is less sticky and easier to shape into balls.

Can I fry baked arancini instead?

Absolutely. If you prefer traditional arancini, you can deep-fry them until golden, but baking is a healthier alternative.

Golden Baked Arancini with Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 140 reviews

Baked Arancini are a delicious Italian snack consisting of creamy rice balls stuffed with cheese, coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, and baked until golden and crispy. This healthier take on traditional fried arancini uses baking to achieve a delightful texture and rich flavor without the extra oil.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 arancini 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice Mixture

• 2 cups cooked Arborio rice
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Coating

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, beaten (for coating)

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked Arborio rice with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, one beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well incorporated and sticky enough to form balls.
2. Form the rice balls: Take a small handful of the rice mixture and shape it into a ball about 2 inches in diameter, ensuring the cheese is well distributed inside the rice for a melty center when baked.
3. Coat the rice balls: Dip each rice ball into the beaten egg, then roll it evenly in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will provide a crispy crust once baked.
4. Prepare for baking: Place the coated rice balls on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart to allow even baking.
5. Bake until golden: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the arancini for 20-25 minutes or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crisp, turning halfway through the baking time for uniform color.
6. Serve warm: Remove from oven and let the arancini cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them as a savory appetizer or snack.

Notes

• You can substitute mozzarella with other melty cheeses like fontina or provolone for variation.
• If desired, add finely chopped herbs like parsley or basil to the rice mixture for extra flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Ensure the rice is slightly sticky; using leftover risotto or freshly cooked rice cooled helps with shaping.

Keywords: baked arancini, Italian appetizer, rice balls, cheese arancini, baked snacks