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Authentic Baked Arancini Recipe

4.9 from 134 reviews

Authentic Baked Arancini are crispy Italian rice balls stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection. Using Arborio rice cooked in chicken broth, this recipe offers a healthier twist to traditional fried arancini, delivering a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Seasoning

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

Filling and Coating

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 2 cups bread crumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Combine Arborio rice and chicken broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook while stirring occasionally until the rice is al dente and the liquid is absorbed, approximately 20 minutes. Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl and allow it to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the Rice Mixture: To the cooled rice, add grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape the Balls: Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture into your hand. Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then carefully encase it with the rice mixture to form a compact ball. Repeat this process until all the rice mixture and mozzarella cubes are used.
  4. Coat the Arancini: Whisk the eggs in a shallow bowl. Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage, then roll it in the bread crumbs to coat evenly. Place the coated rice balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush each rice ball with olive oil to promote browning and crispness. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the arancini are golden brown and crisp on the outside.

Notes

  • Ensure the rice cools completely before shaping to prevent sticking.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Using fresh breadcrumbs can enhance texture and flavor.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the melted mozzarella center.
  • Leftover arancini can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: Arancini, Baked Rice Balls, Italian Appetizer, Mozzarella Arancini, Comfort Food, Cheesy Snack, Breaded Rice Balls