Crispy Arancini with Parmesan Cream Sauce and Microgreens: An Italian Appetizer Favorite

These Crispy Arancini are golden-fried risotto balls filled with cheese and served with a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Topped with fresh microgreens for a modern touch, this classic Italian appetizer is crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and always crowd-pleasing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arancini are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and cheesy. They’re ideal for entertaining or as a unique appetizer for dinner parties. The Parmesan cream sauce adds an indulgent element, and the microgreens provide freshness and visual elegance. These Italian rice balls are both comforting and refined.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Arborio rice (or leftover risotto)

• Chicken or vegetable broth

• Parmesan cheese (grated)

• Mozzarella cubes (for filling)

• Butter

• Onion (finely chopped)

• White wine (optional)

• Salt and pepper

• Eggs

• All-purpose flour

• Breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Heavy cream (for sauce)

• Garlic (minced, for sauce)

• Nutmeg (a pinch, for sauce)

• Microgreens (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the risotto: Sauté onion in butter, add Arborio rice, stir, and deglaze with wine if using. Slowly add warm broth until the rice is cooked and creamy. Stir in Parmesan and season. Let cool completely.

2. Form the arancini: Take a spoonful of cold risotto, flatten it, and place a mozzarella cube in the center. Form into a ball, sealing the cheese inside. Repeat.

3. Bread the balls: Dredge each ball in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs.

4. Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan and fry arancini until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.

5. Make the Parmesan sauce: In a saucepan, sauté garlic in butter, add heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and stir in Parmesan and a pinch of nutmeg until smooth.

6. Serve: Plate arancini with warm Parmesan cream sauce and garnish with microgreens.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10–12 arancini (as appetizers)
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling time for risotto)

Variations

• Stuffing options: Add peas, ham, or sun-dried tomatoes to the risotto mixture.

• Sauce alternative: Marinara or pesto makes a bright, herbaceous pairing.

• Baked version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes for a lighter option.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the coating. Arancini can also be frozen after frying and reheated directly from frozen.

FAQs

Can I use leftover risotto to make arancini?

Yes, arancini are traditionally made from leftover risotto and work best when the rice is cold.

What’s the best oil for frying arancini?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, sunflower, or canola oil.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, form and bread them ahead of time, then fry just before serving.

Can I freeze arancini?

Yes, freeze them after breading or even after frying. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

What cheese works best for the center?

Mozzarella is classic, but fontina, provolone, or even gorgonzola can add flair.

Are arancini gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

How do I keep them from falling apart while frying?

Make sure the risotto is well chilled and the arancini are firmly shaped and well breaded.

Can I make the Parmesan sauce in advance?

Yes, refrigerate and reheat gently, stirring to restore smoothness.

What are good garnishes besides microgreens?

Chopped parsley, shaved Parmesan, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze work well.

Are arancini served hot or cold?

They are best served hot, freshly fried, and crisp.

Conclusion

Crispy Arancini with Parmesan Cream Sauce are a luxurious and flavorful Italian treat that turns humble risotto into an elegant appetizer. With their creamy centers, crunchy exterior, and rich sauce, they’re guaranteed to impress whether served at a dinner party or as a weekend indulgence.

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