The Simple Slim Kitchen 30-day meal planning system
30 DAYS OF MEALS
🍴 MAKE DINNER EASIER
Tired of Figuring Out What to Cook Every Night?
Get 62 simple recipes, a complete 30-day meal plan, weekly shopping lists and easy meal-prep guidance.
Complete Digital System — Just $17
SEE THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN →
Instant digital access • One-time purchase
Japanese-style chef knife
UP TO 70% OFF
SMART KITCHEN UPGRADE
A Seriously Sharp Chef Knife Without the Premium Price.
Ice-hardened steel, a comfortable control grip, and a sharp edge made for slicing meat, vegetables, herbs and more.
SPECIAL ONLINE DEAL
FROM $24.99 EACH
with select bundle
SEE TODAY'S KNIFE DEAL →
60-day guarantee • Online offer

Crispy Herb-Infused Arancini for Your Next Gathering

Crispy Herb-Infused Arancini for Your Next Gathering

Crispy Herb-Infused Arancini are the perfect bite-sized delights for your next gathering. These golden, crispy rice balls are packed with gooey mozzarella and fragrant fresh herbs, making them an irresistible appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these arancini are sure to impress your guests and elevate your snack game.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These arancini aren’t just tasty; they are also fun to make and serve. With their crispy exterior and melty cheese center, they are a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of dips. Plus, you can prepare them in advance, making entertaining a breeze.

🎁 TEMU $0 KITCHEN GIFTS

6 Kitchen Finds You May Be Able to Get for $0

Temu is currently showing these kitchen products as $0 gifts for eligible app users with qualifying orders. Tap any item below to check the current offer.

🎁 $0 gift availability may vary. Offers shown are for eligible Temu app users with qualifying orders. Tap a product to see current eligibility, pricing and terms.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you use links on this page.
  • Crispy texture that contrasts perfectly with creamy cheese.
  • Herb-infused flavor that elevates the classic recipe.
  • Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
  • Perfect for sharing at gatherings and parties.
  • Easy to make with simple, accessible ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

How to Make Crispy Herb-Infused Arancini

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer. Add the arborio rice, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally while cooking for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Once the rice mixture has cooled, stir in the grated Parmesan, diced mozzarella, chopped parsley, chopped basil, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Using your hands, form the rice mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball, ensuring a piece of mozzarella is in the center of each ball.
  4. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
  5. In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry the arancini in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown all over. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Make sure the rice mixture is cool enough to handle before forming the balls to prevent them from falling apart.
  • Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; fry in small batches for even cooking.
  • Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for consistent frying.

Easy Variations

  • Add cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham for a meatier version.
  • Swap herbs based on your preference, such as thyme or oregano.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or goat cheese for unique flavors.

What to Serve With It

  • Marinara sauce for dipping.
  • A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
  • Garlic aioli for a creamy contrast.
  • Spicy arrabbiata sauce for a kick.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Crispy Herb-Infused Arancini
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer. Add the arborio rice, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally while cooking for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Once the rice mixture has cooled, stir in the grated Parmesan, diced mozzarella, chopped parsley, chopped basil, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Using your hands, form the rice mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball, ensuring a piece of mozzarella is in the center of each ball.
  4. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, pressing gently to ensure they stick.
  5. In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry the arancini in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown all over. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes: Make sure the rice mixture is cool enough to handle before forming the balls to prevent them from falling apart.

Related Posts

Your Next 30 Days of Meals — Already Planned
The Simple Slim Kitchen
Stop wondering what to cook every night. Get a complete 30-day meal system that makes meals, shopping & prep easier.
✓ 62 Recipes ✓ 30-Day Plan ✓ Shopping Lists ✓ Meal Prep
Get the complete digital system
$37 $17 TODAY
Instant Access  •  One-Time Purchase  •  60-Day Guarantee
GET THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN — $17
No thanks, continue to CraveFinch.com
Scroll to Top