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Air Fryer Arancini: Crispy Italian Rice Balls Made Simple

A stack of golden brown air fryer arancini balls, one cut open showing melted cheese and peas inside.
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Make traditional, cheesy arancini without deep frying. This recipe uses an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior and a hot, melted center, perfect for a healthier Italian appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked risotto (cooled completely)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked meat sauce (ragu), cooled
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil based)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: Mix the cooled risotto, mozzarella, cooled meat sauce, and thawed peas in a bowl. Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm it up.
  2. Shape the arancini: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the chilled rice mixture. Flatten it in your palm, place about 1/2 teaspoon of extra mozzarella in the center if desired, and carefully form it into a tight ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Set up the breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten egg in a second, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third.
  4. Bread the balls: Dredge each rice ball first in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it completely in the egg. Finally, press it firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully coated. Press the breadcrumbs onto the surface to help them adhere.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
  6. Arrange the breaded arancini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
  7. Spray the tops of the arancini generously with cooking spray.
  8. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Spray the second side lightly with cooking spray before flipping. The arancini should be golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove carefully and serve immediately while the cheese is melted.

Notes

  • For best results, the risotto must be cold and firm before shaping. If the mixture is too warm, the balls will fall apart during handling.
  • To freeze for later: Place the breaded, uncooked arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen balls to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding 3 to 5 minutes to the air fryer cooking time.
  • If you do not have meat sauce, you can use a simple mixture of ricotta cheese and herbs for a vegetarian filling.

Nutrition

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