Arancini with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Arancini with Parmesan Cream Sauce are crispy, golden-fried risotto balls filled with gooey cheese, served with a rich and velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This Italian appetizer is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for entertaining.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 12 arancini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 2 cups cooked risotto (cooled)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for sauce)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Take a small portion of the cooled risotto and flatten it in your hand. Place a piece of cheese in the center and shape into a ball, enclosing the cheese. Repeat with remaining risotto.
- Set up a breading station: place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
- Roll each risotto ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a tray.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry arancini in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
- To make the Parmesan cream sauce, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Whisk in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm arancini with the Parmesan cream sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old risotto for easier shaping and firmer texture.
- Try stuffing arancini with other fillings like cooked ground meat or peas.
- Parmesan sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 arancini with sauce
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: arancini, risotto balls, parmesan cream sauce, italian appetizer, cheesy fried rice balls