Description
Delicious and crispy Rice Balls with Cheese and Pepperoni are a perfect appetizer or snack. These golden fried arancini-style treats combine cooked rice, mozzarella, Parmesan, and spicy pepperoni, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb exterior. Serve warm with marinara sauce for a fun and flavorful bite that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Ball Mixture
- 2 cups cooked white rice (cooled)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni or chopped pepperoni
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg
Breading Station
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
For Frying and Serving
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
- Warm marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled white rice, shredded mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 1 egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Form Rice Balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. If the mixture feels too loose or sticky, add a little more Parmesan or chill the mixture in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to firm up, making shaping easier.
- Setup Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls or plates – one with all-purpose flour, one with the second beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. This will ensure an even coating on the rice balls.
- Bread the Rice Balls: Roll each rice ball first in the flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Set them aside on a plate ready for frying.
- Heat Oil: Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy to achieve perfect frying temperature.
- Fry the Rice Balls: Carefully place the breaded rice balls in the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2–3 minutes while turning occasionally until the rice balls are golden brown and crispy all over.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried rice balls with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, bake the breaded rice balls on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- If the rice mixture is too sticky, chilling it makes shaping easier and helps the rice balls hold together better.
- Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your flavor preference.
- These rice balls make fantastic party appetizers or a fun snack for family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
