Arancini Balls with Cheese, Bacon, and Broccoli

4.67 from 6 votes

These Arancini Balls are deep-fried and stuffed with cheese, bacon, and broccoli. Easier to prepare than you think, they make the ultimate starter.

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Italian

Difficulty: Medium

Servings:

3 cups cooked white rice
¼ cup cooked bacon crumbles
10 oz. package frozen broccoli in cheese sauce cooked in the microwave according to package instructions
salt and pepper to taste
2 cups white flour
3 eggs
2 cups breadcrumbs
4 oz. sharp cheddar cheese cut into ½ inch cubes
canola oil for frying
marinara sauce for dipping

In a large bowl, stir together the rice, bacon, broccoli/cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Place in the fridge to chill so it's easy to handle.
3 cups cooked white rice, ¼ cup cooked bacon crumbles, 10 oz. package frozen broccoli in cheese sauce, salt and pepper to taste
Place flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs into three separate small bowls.
2 cups white flour, 3 eggs, 2 cups breadcrumbs
Once the rice mixture is chilled, take a small amount and add a cube of cheese to the middle. Keeping the cheese in the middle, top with more rice to create a ball, approximately 2 inches in size. Press together firmly to make sure it holds its shape. Dip into the flour and coat completely. Next, coat in egg, using a fork to allow the excess to shake off, then dredge in the breadcrumbs, coating completely. Lay on a plate and repeat with the rest of the rice. I was able to make about 12 balls. You can make whatever size you'd like.
4 oz. sharp cheddar cheese
Heat 3 inches of canola oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven to 350°F. Once hot, cook the rice balls in batches until fully browned, approximately 1-2 minutes each.
canola oil for frying
Serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
marinara sauce

Day-old or leftover rice is easier to work with.
Drain the broccoli and cheese mixture well so there isn't too much moisture.
The rice balls should be placed into hot oil to minimize the risk of them becoming greasy.
Store leftovers for up to 3 days.