Mini arancini balls

Mini arancini balls are an Italian appetizer featuring crispy, golden exteriors filled with a gooey, cheesy mixture of rice, prosciutto, and nuts. These bite-sized delights are ideal for parties or a special treat at home.

16 Feb 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 310 min

Ingredients:

2 cups chicken gravy
1 cup white rice
1 tbsp butter
1 onion
3 slices prosciutto
2 tbsp pine nuts
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
2 eggs
3 cups bread crumbs

Mini arancini balls are a delightful Italian appetizer that packs a punch in both flavor and texture. These bite-sized delights feature a crispy outer layer with a gooey, cheesy center. They're perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a special treat to enjoy at home. Let's dive into making these delicious mini arancini balls using simple and readily available ingredients.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken gravy to a boil.
- Add the white rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the gravy. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped prosciutto and toasted pine nuts, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the cooked rice into the onion mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Once cooled, add the diced mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese to the rice mixture. Mix thoroughly.

3. Form the Balls:
- Take a small amount of the rice mixture (roughly a tablespoon) and roll it into a ball with your hands, about the size of a large marble. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture.

4. Prepare for Coating:
- Place the all-purpose flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the bread crumbs in a third.
- Roll each rice ball first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the bread crumbs until fully coated.

5. Fry the Arancini Balls:
- In a deep frying pan or deep fryer, heat enough oil to submerge the arancini balls to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add a few arancini balls at a time, frying them until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even browning.
- Remove the arancini balls with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

6. Serve:
- Serve the mini arancini balls hot, with your favorite dipping sauce if desired. Enjoy!

Mini arancini balls are a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together the rich flavors of prosciutto, melted mozzarella, and nutty pine nuts within a golden, crispy shell. By following these tips and techniques, you can create a batch of these delectable bites that will impress your family and guests. Enjoy these savory treats as an appetizer or a tasty snack, and savor the incredible taste of homemade Italian cuisine.

Mini arancini balls FAQ:

What is the best way to ensure the arancini balls are cooked through?

To ensure that the mini arancini balls are cooked through, fry them at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C). Frying them for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown usually ensures that the inside is heated properly. You can also cut one open to check if the cheese is melted and the filling is hot.

Can I substitute the cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and parmesan cheese with other cheeses such as cheddar or fontina. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor of the arancini. Ensure that the cheese melts well for the best texture.

How should I store leftover arancini balls?

Store leftover mini arancini balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

What can I use instead of prosciutto for a vegetarian option?

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the prosciutto with sautéed mushrooms or cooked spinach, or omit it entirely. Just be sure to incorporate additional seasoning for flavor.

What size pan should I use for frying the arancini balls?

Use a deep frying pan or a large, heavy-bottomed pot that can hold enough oil to fully submerge the arancini balls. This ensures even frying and prevents the oil temperature from dropping too much when the balls are added.

Tips:

- Ensure the rice is fully cooked but not overdone; it should be slightly firm to hold its shape.

- Chill the rice mixture before forming the balls to make them easier to handle.

- When shaping the arancini, wet your hands slightly to prevent the rice from sticking.

- Double-coating the balls in egg and breadcrumbs will result in an extra crunchy exterior.

- Fry the arancini in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and make them greasy.

Nutrition per serving

22 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 0.95g
Sugar 1.38g
Fat 4.58g

Mini arancini balls