Appetizers & Snacks, Side Dishes

Italian Arancini (Stuffed Rice Balls)

  • Prep 10 mins
  • Total 22 mins
  • Easy
  • Serves 6

A classic and most popular Italian appetizer. Crispy, cheesy, and simply delicious.

Cooking mode

Step-by-step instruction without your screen going to sleep

  • 1 (8 1/2 ounce) package microwave-ready jasmine rice, prepared per bag instructions
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup prepared French onion dip
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 3 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut in 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3/4 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
  • Kosher salt, as desired
  • Ground black pepper, as desired

Utensils

  • Air Fry Basket
  • Large Bowl
  • Three Small Bowls
  • Step 1

    To install the grill grate, slide it into the front of the base so it hooks in, then press down on the back until it clicks into place. Install air fry basket on grill grate so it sits flat. Select AIR CRISP, set temperature to 375°F, and set time to 12 minutes. Close the hood and press the dial to begin preheating (preheating will take approximately 5 minutes).

  • Step 2

    In a large bowl, add the rice, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, French onion dip, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

  • Step 3

    Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and form into a ball. Press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each ball, then gently wrap rice mixture around cheese and roll back into a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture. You should have 12–15 balls.

  • Step 4

    Place flour, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Place eggs in another small bowl and whisk. Then place breadcrumbs in a third small bowl.

  • Step 5

    Dredge the balls in the flour, then the beaten eggs, and then breadcrumbs, gently pressing to evenly coat.

  • Step 6

    When unit beeps to signal it has preheated, open hood and add all balls to air fry basket. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.

  • Step 7

    When cooking is complete, remove arancini from basket and serve.