Italian Cheese-Stuffed Arancini

Arancini are crispy, golden-fried risotto balls stuffed with gooey melted cheese. This classic Italian street food is the ultimate comfort food appetizer, combining creamy risotto, flavorful herbs, and a crispy breadcrumb coating. These cheese-stuffed arancini are perfect for parties, game nights, or a fun family dinner served with rich marinara sauce!

Ingredients

For the Risotto:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes

For Breading & Frying:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Serving:

• 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Risotto

1. Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft.
2. Stir in garlic and Arborio rice, toasting for about 1 minute.
3. Add broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly and letting the rice absorb the liquid before adding more.
4. Continue until rice is tender and creamy (about 20 minutes).
5. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Spread risotto on a baking sheet and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Form the Arancini

1. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of risotto into your hand and flatten slightly.
2. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and roll into a ball.
3. Repeat with remaining risotto and cheese, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Coat the Arancini

1. Set up a breading station with 3 bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Flour
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
   • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika
2. Roll each arancini ball in flour, then dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Fry the Arancini

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the arancini in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Plate the arancini and garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a glass of red wine (Chianti or Sangiovese).
Serve over a bed of arugula or spinach for an elegant touch.
Use different cheese fillings like gouda, cheddar, or gorgonzola.

Tips for Perfect Arancini

✔ Use Day-Old Risotto – Chilled risotto is easier to shape.
✔ Double Coat for Extra Crispiness – Repeat the breading process for a crunchier shell.
✔ Bake or Air-Fry for a Healthier Version – Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
✔ Make Ahead & Freeze – Store uncooked arancini in the freezer for up to 2 months, then fry straight from frozen.

Conclusion

These Italian Cheese-Stuffed Arancini are crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—the perfect indulgent snack or appetizer! Whether for a party, family dinner, or Italian feast, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Would you like a baked version or a spicy variation?