Crispy Baked Arancini Recipe
Introduction
Baked Arancini are crispy, golden Italian rice balls filled with gooey mozzarella. This lighter version skips frying and uses the oven, making it a delicious and approachable appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups cooked risotto rice
- 1 cup mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Take a small handful of risotto rice and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then shape the rice around it to form a ball.
- Step 3: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Dip each rice ball into the eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Step 4: Place the breaded rice balls on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy on all sides.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old risotto for easier shaping and better texture.
- Try adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or basil into the rice for extra flavor.
- For a spicy twist, mix some chili flakes into the breadcrumbs before coating.
Storage
Store leftover arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze baked arancini?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Arrange the breaded balls on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Other melty cheeses like fontina or provolone work well. For a non-dairy option, try vegan cheese alternatives or omit the filling entirely for plain rice balls.
PrintCrispy Baked Arancini Recipe
Baked Arancini are crispy, golden Italian rice balls filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and coated in crunchy breadcrumbs. This healthier twist on traditional fried arancini uses baking instead of frying, resulting in a deliciously satisfying appetizer or snack with less oil and fat. Made with creamy risotto rice, melty mozzarella, eggs, and a crispy breadcrumb coating, these baked arancini are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a comforting treat at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 arancini balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Arancini Balls
- 2 cups cooked risotto rice, cooled
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: If not already done, cook risotto rice following your preferred method and allow it to cool completely. This ensures the rice mixture holds its shape when forming the balls.
- Form rice balls: With clean hands, take a small handful of cooled risotto rice and flatten it into a disc. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then carefully mold the rice around the cheese to form a compact ball, about 2 inches in diameter. Repeat until all the rice and mozzarella are used.
- Bread the arancini: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Dip each rice ball first into the beaten eggs, then roll them evenly in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake until crispy: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray or lightly brush the arancini with olive oil to help them brown. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside and the cheese inside is melted.
- Serve: Remove the baked arancini from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as an appetizer or snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Using cooled risotto rice helps the arancini hold their shape better during baking.
- You can add herbs or spices like parsley or garlic powder to the rice mixture for extra flavor.
- For best results, ensure the mozzarella cubes are well covered with rice to prevent cheese from leaking out.
- If desired, experiment with fillings such as ragu, peas, or mushrooms for variety.
- Baking instead of frying reduces overall fat content while still achieving a crispy exterior.
Keywords: Baked Arancini, Italian appetizer, risotto balls, mozzarella, crispy baked snacks
