Craving a delicious Italian treat that’s both crispy and cheesy? Look no further than these Easy Air Fryer Arancini! Imagine golden-brown risotto balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella, perfectly seasoned, and air-fried to perfection. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these delightful bites are sure to impress. With only 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can indulge in this classic comfort food without the fuss. Get ready to elevate your snack game and discover how to make these irresistible arancini right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked risotto
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Make sure you have 2 cups of cooked risotto, 1/2 cup of cubed mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, and some salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked risotto, cubed mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the beaten egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form small balls, about the size of a golf ball. You should be able to make approximately 12-16 arancini balls, depending on the size you choose.
- After forming the balls, roll each arancini in the breadcrumbs until they are evenly coated. This will give them a nice crispy exterior when cooked.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that the arancini cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
- Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the arancini in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook the arancini in the air fryer for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the arancini from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed plain or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara.
- Serve the arancini warm and enjoy your delicious Easy Air Fryer Arancini!
Tips
- Use Leftover Risotto: For the best flavor and texture, use leftover risotto if you have it. The rice will be firmer and easier to shape into balls.
- Chill the Mixture: If your risotto mixture feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before forming the arancini. This will help them hold their shape better during cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: To achieve that perfect crispy exterior, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to give each arancini enough space.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! Add different cheeses, herbs, or even small pieces of cooked meat or vegetables to the risotto mixture for a unique twist.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair your arancini with marinara, pesto, or a spicy aioli for an extra flavor kick. These sauces can elevate your dish and make it even more enjoyable!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 239kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 64mg
