I can still remember the first time I tasted arancini. It was at a local Italian festival, the sun setting, and the scent of fried goodness wafting through the air. A friend handed me a golden, crispy rice ball, and I took a bite. Heaven!
The creamy risotto, the surprise of melted cheese inside, and that tangy marinara sauce—it was a flavor explosion. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that experience at home. Let me take you on this flavorful journey and show you how to make arancini rice balls with marinara sauce that you—and your guests—will absolutely adore.
Arancini are fried rice balls originating from Sicily. They’re made with risotto, typically filled with cheese or meat, and then coated in breadcrumbs before being fried to perfection. Traditionally, they are served with marinara sauce.
The combination of crispy outside and creamy inside is simply irresistible. Yet, the charm doesn’t just stop at flavor. Their rich history and cultural significance make them a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire.
Imagine this: after a long day, you settle down with a plate of hot arancini, a side of marinara, and perhaps a glass of wine. It feels luxurious, yet it’s so simple to make at home.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: why put in the effort to make arancini? Well, here are a few reasons that might just make you want to roll up your sleeves.
Now that I have teased your taste buds, let’s dive into what you’ll need.
Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful rice balls:
In a bowl, combine the chilled rice, beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is nicely mixed. The eggs help bind the ingredients together and create the right texture.
With wet hands (this helps prevent sticking), take a small amount of the rice mixture. Flatten it in your palm and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Gently fold the rice over the cheese, then roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
In a shallow dish, spread out the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. Gently roll each rice ball in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. The breadcrumbs ensure that perfect crunch we all crave.
In a large, deep skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread in. If it bubbles up and browns quickly, you’re good to go!
Carefully place a few balls into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Remember to turn them occasionally for even cooking.
Once they are golden, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your marinara sauce.
To get the most out of your arancini, consider these helpful tips:
While these little pockets of joy aren’t diet food, they can fit into a balanced diet with moderation. Each serving contains approximately:
Enjoy these treats as a special indulgence rather than an everyday snack.
Absolutely! Once they cool, store leftover arancini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them for longer, freezing is a great option. Just ensure they are fully cooled, then place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until frozen solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag and they’ll stay good for about three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) until warm (about 20 minutes).
Pair your arancini with some delightful sides. Here are a few ideas:
Let’s talk about variations because who doesn’t love a little creativity in the kitchen?
There you have it, an in-depth look at making irresistible arancini rice balls with marinara sauce. This dish isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds; it’s about creating an experience. Invite friends over, serve them up, and watch their faces beam with joy.
You can feel good knowing you’ve brought a touch of Italian tradition to your dining table. Roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy the delightful journey of flavor that comes with homemade arancini. Trust me, once you make these, you'll find yourself craving them time and again. What are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
I can still remember the first time I tasted arancini. It was at a local Italian festival, the sun setting, and the scent of fried goodness wafting through the air. A friend handed me a golden, crispy rice ball, and I took a bite. Heaven!
The creamy risotto, the surprise of melted cheese inside, and that tangy marinara sauce—it was a flavor explosion. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that experience at home. Let me take you on this flavorful journey and show you how to make arancini rice balls with marinara sauce that you—and your guests—will absolutely adore.
Servings 8
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
To get the most out of your arancini, consider these helpful tips:
Keep Your Hands Wet: This avoids sticking and makes shaping easier.
Susan Roberts is a California-based registered dietitian and the creator of Sweet Mama’s Kitchen, where she shares simple, comforting, and nutritious home-cooked recipes. As a busy mom, she focuses on easy, wholesome meals that bring joy to the table without sacrificing flavor. Susan’s passion lies in helping others create delicious, family-friendly dishes with love and confidence.