Print

Baked Arancini Recipe

Baked Arancini Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 25 reviews

Baked Arancini are delicious Italian rice balls made with creamy Arborio rice cooked in chicken broth, mixed with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked until golden and crispy. This healthier alternative to the traditional fried version offers a comforting, cheesy center with a satisfying crunchy exterior, perfect as a snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Mixture

  • 2 cups Arborio rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Coating and Filling

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook the Arborio rice in the chicken broth until al dente, meaning it is tender but still has a slight bite. Once cooked, let the rice cool to room temperature to make it easier to handle.
  2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Shape the Arancini: Take small portions of the rice mixture and form them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each ball and carefully close the rice around it to seal the cheese inside.
  4. Coat the Arancini: Beat the eggs in a shallow dish. Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, then roll them in bread crumbs, making sure they are fully coated with a crispy outer layer.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each ball lightly with olive oil to promote browning and crispness. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy on the outside.
  6. Serve: Remove the arancini from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving to enjoy the melted mozzarella center and crispy crust safely.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can lightly spray the arancini with cooking spray before baking.
  • Make sure the rice is completely cool before shaping to prevent sticking and falling apart.
  • Feel free to add other herbs like basil or oregano for additional flavor.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Baked Arancini, Italian rice balls, Sicilian snack, mozzarella stuffed rice, healthy arancini, Arborio rice recipe

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/baked-arancini-recipe/