Baked Arancini Recipe

Crispy on the outside, gooey with melted cheese on the inside, and brimming with savory flavors, this Baked Arancini Recipe brings all the joy of a beloved Italian classic without deep frying. Each golden rice ball combines creamy Arborio rice, nutty Parmesan, and aromatic parsley, all wrapped around a melty core of mozzarella and finished with a crisp, oven-baked breadcrumb coating. It’s a dish that delivers big comfort and even bigger smiles, making it perfect for family gatherings, impressive appetizers, or a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These few key ingredients are the heart of irresistible arancini and each one plays an important role in building taste, texture, and beautiful color. You’ll be amazed at how such staples transform into a restaurant-worthy dish you can make at home!

• Arborio rice: This starchy, short-grain rice creates the classic creamy texture arancini are known for.
• Chicken broth: Cooking the rice in flavorful broth infuses every bite with rich savory notes.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a boost of umami and a subtle nutty flavor that deepens the filling.
• Bread crumbs: The secret to that perfect golden crust with an irresistible crunch.
• Eggs: They help bind the breadcrumb coating and give your arancini a beautiful finish.
• Mozzarella cheese (cubed): Tucked inside for a melty, cheesy surprise in every bite.
• Chopped parsley: Fresh and vibrant, parsley brings color and mild herby flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out and balancing all the flavors.
• Olive oil: Brushed on before baking to help everything crisp and brown to perfection.

How to Make Baked Arancini Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Mixture

Begin by cooking Arborio rice in chicken broth until it’s just al dente, with a little tenderness but still holding its shape. Let the rice cool to room temperature—this step is key for forming perfect balls later on. Mixing while it’s hot can make things sticky in all the wrong ways!

Step 2: Mix the Flavors

In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice with grated Parmesan cheese, a good sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a handful of freshly chopped parsley. Gently fold everything together until the rice is evenly mixed—this is when those classic Italian flavors start coming together beautifully.

Step 3: Shape the Arancini Balls

Scoop up a generous spoonful of the rice mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Press a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center and wrap the rice around it, gently compressing to create a tight, tidy ball. Don’t rush; making sure each arancini is compact ensures the filling stays put and melts perfectly when baked.

Step 4: Bread the Arancini

Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl and pour breadcrumbs into another. Dip each rice ball into the eggs to coat thoroughly, then roll in bread crumbs until each arancini is covered in a crisp, even layer. The breading not only guarantees crunch but also helps seal in all that gooey cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crisp

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place each arancini ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Brush them lightly with olive oil to promote browning and crispiness. Slide the sheet into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until your arancini are golden brown with a beautiful crust.

How to Serve Baked Arancini Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a few shavings of Parmesan on top add a pop of color and freshness right before serving. If you want a little zest, a squeeze of lemon juice or a scatter of lemon zest also brightens each bite beautifully.

Side Dishes

These arancini are wonderful alongside a simple green salad tossed with a vinaigrette or a vibrant tomato salad. For true Italian comfort, serve with a bowl of warm marinara or arrabbiata sauce for dipping. They also pair nicely with roasted veggies or antipasto platters.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, arrange the Baked Arancini Recipe on a platter with dipping sauces like spicy aioli, basil pesto, or garlic yogurt dip. Skewer each ball with a cocktail pick for party appetizers or stack them pyramid-style for an eye-catching centerpiece. Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant, personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooled arancini in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep their flavor and texture nicely for up to three days, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze unbaked or baked arancini in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer—add just a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.

Reheating

To bring your Baked Arancini Recipe back to life, reheat them in a hot oven (around 375°F) for 10 to 15 minutes until they’re hot and crisp. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the coating crunchy; an air fryer also does wonders for restoring the texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for the Baked Arancini Recipe?

While Arborio rice is traditional for its creamy texture, you can experiment with other short-grain varieties, like sushi rice, in a pinch. Just know the signature creaminess comes from Arborio’s high starch content, so results may vary with substitutions.

Is it possible to make this Baked Arancini Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth, and ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally meat-free, making it easy to adapt for vegetarian diets.

Can I prepare arancini ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely. After breading, you can refrigerate the uncooked arancini for up to a day before baking. This makes them party-perfect or ideal for meal prep. You can also freeze them here and bake straight from frozen.

How do I keep the arancini from falling apart while shaping?

Make sure your rice is fully cooled before mixing and forming; warm rice can be sticky and hard to manage. Compress the rice gently but firmly around the cheese, and don’t overfill—the right balance ensures a perfect, cohesive ball.

What dipping sauces go well with this Baked Arancini Recipe?

Classic marinara is a favorite, but don’t hesitate to serve them with basil pesto, creamy garlic sauce, or even a spicy sriracha aioli. Variety is the spice of life, and these crispy treats love bold flavors!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made arancini at home, I hope this Baked Arancini Recipe inspires you to give it a try. Each step truly transforms humble ingredients into something special, and there’s no better feeling than breaking into a crispy rice ball and finding that melted cheese inside. Enjoy every bite—and don’t forget to share!

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