Are you craving a taste of Italy but short on time? Then look no further! This Arancini Air Fryer recipe delivers all the cheesy, crispy goodness of traditional arancini, but with a fraction of the effort. Forget deep-frying – your air fryer is about to become your new best friend for creating these golden, delicious rice balls. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a delightful appetizer, or a fun family meal, these arancini are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked Arborio rice (day-old is best!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (your favorite homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the rice mushy.
Prepare the Arancini:
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Divide the rice mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
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Make a small indentation in the center of each rice ball. Add about 1 teaspoon of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese to each.
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Gently close the rice ball, ensuring the filling is completely sealed inside. Shape into a smooth, round ball again.
Bread and Fry:
- In a shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs. Lightly brush each rice ball with olive oil. Roll each arancini in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Air Fry to Perfection:
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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Arrange the arancini in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
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Once cooked, remove the arancini from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious arancini hot, alongside extra marinara sauce for dipping. A simple side salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rice balls. These are equally delightful as an appetizer or a main course.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to the rice mixture.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the rice for a little heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegan mozzarella and omit the egg for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the uncooked arancini up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the air frying time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Arancini Air Fryer recipe offers a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy this classic Italian dish. The crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy center are a match made in heaven, and the air fryer ensures a lighter, healthier alternative to deep frying. Enjoy!