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Air Fryer Arancini Rice Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 120 reviews

These Air Fryer Arancini Rice Balls offer a crispy, golden exterior with a creamy, cheesy center made from arborio rice, parmesan, and mozzarella. Perfectly seasoned with fresh parsley and dried basil, these bite-sized Italian treats are air fried to perfection for a healthier twist on the classic deep-fried snack. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Mixture

  • 2 cups cooked arborio rice (warm, but not hot)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced mozzarella cheese (small cubes)
  • 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Breading Station

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup Italian bread crumbs

For Cooking and Serving

  • Olive oil (for spritzing)
  • Marinara sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Rice Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm cooked arborio rice, grated parmesan cheese, diced mozzarella, minced fresh parsley, and dried basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, then mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Shape the Arancini Balls: Using your hands or a medium cookie scoop, take about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and shape it into a compact ball. Repeat this process until you form 16 to 20 evenly sized arancini balls.
  3. Prepare the Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls side by side with all-purpose flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and Italian bread crumbs in the third bowl.
  4. Bread the Rice Balls: Roll each shaped rice ball first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing extra to drip off, and finally coat it thoroughly with the Italian bread crumbs. Place the coated balls onto a plate.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat fully before cooking.
  6. Air Fry the Arancini: Arrange the breaded rice balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. Lightly spritz them with olive oil. Cook at 370°F for 10-12 minutes or until the balls turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  7. Cool Before Serving: Remove the arancini from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes to set and avoid burning when eaten.
  8. Serve: Serve the air fryer arancini hot alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delicious, crispy Italian appetizer!

Notes

  • Use warm— not hot— cooked rice to help the arancini hold their shape more easily.
  • If you prefer a spicier dip, add some crushed red pepper to the marinara sauce.
  • You can make these arancini ahead of time and refrigerate them before air frying for convenience.
  • Ensure the arancini balls are spaced apart in the air fryer basket to allow even browning.
  • Opt for freshly grated parmesan and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.

Keywords: Arancini, Rice Balls, Air Fryer, Italian Appetizer, Crispy Snack, Vegetarian, Easy Recipe

Find it online: https://topreci.com/air-fryer-arancini-rice-balls-recipe/