The Best Italian Arancini Recipe: Cheesy Rice Balls That Impress

If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer or snack that’s packed with flavor, these arancini balls are your answer. Also known as risotto balls, these crispy, cheesy delights are a beloved Italian appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or indulging in a special treat at home. The combination of creamy rice, gooey mozzarella, and a golden, crunchy coating makes these Italian snacks simply irresistible.

I remember trying arancini for the first time during a trip to Italy—it was love at first bite! When I recreated them at home, they instantly became a family favorite. Now, they’re my go-to recipe for dinner parties and game nights. There’s something so satisfying about biting into a crispy shell to reveal that cheesy rice center—it’s comfort food at its finest.

Photo taken from a top-down angle, using all-natural lighting, showing golden-fried arancini balls on a plate lined with paper towels, next to a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, on a light gray concrete countertop.

pizza oven cta 2025 ver2b The Best Italian Arancini Recipe: Cheesy Rice Balls That Impress

Your Grocery List

  • Arborio rice
  • Chicken or vegetable stock
  • Butter
  • Onion (finely chopped)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Mozzarella cheese (cut into small cubes)
  • Eggs
  • Breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • Flour
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Optional: Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Crafting Perfect Risotto Balls

The key to great arancini balls starts with creamy risotto. Arborio rice is essential for its starchiness, which creates that luscious texture. Slowly cook the rice in chicken or vegetable stock, stirring often to release its starch. Once the risotto is cooked and slightly cooled, mix in grated parmesan for a rich, savory flavor. Allow the risotto to chill completely before forming the balls—this step makes them easier to shape and helps them hold together during frying.

Stuffing and Shaping Arancini Balls

To create the perfect arancini rice balls, scoop a small amount of risotto into your hand, flatten it slightly, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Gently fold the rice around the cheese and roll it into a ball. Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking and ensure even shaping. You can make them appetizer-sized or slightly larger for a hearty snack.

The Crispy Coating

The crunchy exterior is what sets arancini apart as a perfect Italian appetizer. Use the classic breading technique: dredge each ball in flour, dip it in beaten egg, and roll it in breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, panko breadcrumbs are a great choice. Make sure each ball is evenly coated to achieve that beautiful golden crust during frying.

Frying Tips for Success

Deep frying is traditional for Italian arancini, but shallow frying works beautifully too. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet until shimmering, and fry the balls in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until they’re golden brown and crispy on all sides, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve them warm for the best experience—the melted cheesy rice center is heavenly.

Storing and Reheating Arancini

Leftover arancini rice balls can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. If you want to make them ahead, you can prepare and bread the risotto balls, then freeze them before frying. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Make It Your Own

This arancini recipe is endlessly versatile. Add chopped ham, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to the risotto mixture for extra flavor. Swap mozzarella for smoked gouda or fontina for a twist on the classic. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, or try a garlic aioli for something different. However you customize them, these arancini balls recipes are sure to impress your guests.

Additional Info

Prep time: 30 minutes (plus risotto chilling time)

Cook time: 20 minutes

Total time: 50 minutes (active time)

Servings: 4-6

Nutrition: Approximately 290 calories per serving

Drink pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.

Dessert pairing: End the meal with a simple panna cotta or a slice of limoncello cake for a touch of sweetness.

A delicious slice of cheese pizzaPizza fresh from the ovenA mouthwatering pizza close-upAnother irresistible slice of pizza
Photo taken from a top-down angle, using all-natural lighting, showing golden-fried arancini balls on a plate lined with paper towels, next to a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, on a light gray concrete countertop.

The Best Italian Arancini Recipe

These crispy, cheesy arancini rice balls are the perfect Italian appetizer. Made with creamy risotto, gooey mozzarella, and a golden breadcrumb coating, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Shallow bowls
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock (warmed)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (cut into small cubes)
  • 2 eggs (beaten, divided)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)
  • Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
  • Add Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat in butter.
  • Gradually add warm stock, one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Cook until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20 minutes.
  • Stir in grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Spread the risotto on a baking sheet to cool completely.
  • Once cooled, take a small amount of risotto and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and shape the risotto around it to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining risotto.
  • Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumbs.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the arancini balls in small batches, turning frequently, until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.
  • Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Notes

For a lighter option, bake the breaded arancini at 400°F for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Keyword Arancini Balls Appetizers, Arancini Balls Recipes, Arancini Recipe, Arancini Rice Balls, Cheesy Rice, Italian Appetizers, Italian Arancini, Italian Snacks, Risotto Balls Recipes
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