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Authentic Baked Arancini Recipe – Easy Italian Rice Balls Recipe

Authentic Baked Arancini Recipe – Easy Italian Rice Balls Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 16 reviews

This Authentic Baked Arancini Recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy classic Italian rice balls. Made with creamy Arborio rice, savory Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese centers, these baked arancini are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, they’re healthier than traditional fried versions and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Mixture

  • 2 cups Arborio rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Coating and Filling

  • 2 cups bread crumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice Mixture: Cook the Arborio rice in chicken broth over medium heat until al dente. Once cooked, spread it out to cool completely to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape the Arancini Balls: Take a portion of the rice mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then gently but firmly form the rice around the cheese to create a ball.
  4. Prepare the Breading Station: Beat the eggs in a bowl. Place the bread crumbs in a separate shallow dish.
  5. Bread the Arancini: Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the bread crumbs until evenly covered.
  6. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  7. Bake the Arancini: Place the breaded rice balls on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush each with olive oil to help achieve a crispy golden crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  8. Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving warm as an appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice mixture.
  • Leftover arancini can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for best crispiness.
  • If you prefer frying, these arancini can be deep-fried in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown.
  • Using fresh mozzarella will yield the best melting center texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Baked Arancini, Italian Rice Balls, Easy Appetizer, Italian Snack, Arborio Rice Recipe, Healthy Arancini

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/authentic-baked-arancini-recipe-easy-italian-rice-balls-recipe/