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–+ servings
Italian Rice Balls

Irresistible Italian Rice Balls: Healthy Baked Goodness

A healthier twist on Italian rice balls with a gooey mozzarella center and crispy exterior. Perfect for appetizers or snacks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice Mixture
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice Substitute with short-grain rice if needed.
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for vegan.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
  • 2 large Eggs A flax egg can be used as a vegan alternative.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Any melty cheese like provolone or fontina will work.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Basil can be used for a different flavor.
To Season
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Baking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Cooking spray can be a lighter option.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Rice Balls
  1. Cook Arborio rice in chicken broth over medium heat until al dente, about 15-20 minutes. Cool slightly, then mix with Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. Take small portions of the rice mixture, flatten in your palm, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Mold the rice around the cheese to form a ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Prepare a breading station with beaten eggs in one bowl and breadcrumbs in another. Dip each rice ball in eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange breaded arancini, and brush with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until crispy and golden.
  5. Let the baked rice balls cool slightly before serving with marinara sauce if desired. Enjoy warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 2ballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Baked arancini can be made ahead of time and stored. They can also be frozen uncooked and baked from frozen for convenience.

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