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Ingredients for baked arancini laid out on a table including arborio rice, mozzarella, and panko.

Crispy Baked Arancini (with Gooey Mozzarella Center)

These perfectly golden brown baked arancini feature a crispy exterior, creamy risotto filling, and a gooey mozzarella cheese pull. A healthier, delicious Italian appetizer baked to hyper-detailed perfection without the need for deep frying.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 arancini
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Arborio rice (200g)
  • 3 cups Chicken or vegetable broth (710ml), warm
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (45g), freshly grated
  • 3 large Eggs Divided (1 for risotto, 2 for breading)
  • 4 ounces Low-moisture mozzarella cheese (115g), cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour (60g)
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs (90g)
  • 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil (30ml)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (8g), finely chopped
  • 1 cup Marinara sauce (240ml), warm, for dipping

Equipment

  • 1 Large Heavy-Bottomed Skillet For cooking the risotto.
  • 1 Large Baking Sheet For chilling risotto and baking the arancini.
  • 1 Parchment Paper To prevent sticking.

Method
 

Making the Baked Arancini
  1. In a large skillet, simmer the Arborio rice and warm broth over medium heat, adding the liquid one cup at a time. Stir frequently until the rice is tender and the mixture is highly creamy and thick.
  2. Remove from heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and let it cool slightly before mixing in one beaten egg. Spread the cooked risotto onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  3. Once chilled, scoop up about 2 tablespoons (30g) of the mixture into your wet hands. Flatten it slightly, place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, and fold the edges of the rice over the cheese, rolling it tightly into a smooth sphere.
  4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a clean baking sheet with fresh parchment paper. Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with two whisked eggs, and one with Panko breadcrumbs mixed with the olive oil.
  5. Gently roll each stuffed rice ball in the flour, dip it fully into the beaten eggs, and then roll it thoroughly in the oiled Panko breadcrumbs. Press the crumbs gently into the surface.
  6. Place the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust has formed.
  7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 3 minutes. Transfer to a rustic stoneware bowl, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with a small bowl of marinara sauce.

Notes

Chill the rice thoroughly: Do not skip the chilling step. Warm risotto will fall apart.
Wet your hands: Keep a small bowl of water nearby to prevent sticking.
Seal the cheese completely: Inspect each ball before breading to ensure no cheese is exposed.