Golden and crisp on the outside, soft and cheesy inside—Crispy Arancini with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Arugula offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. These Italian rice balls are made from creamy risotto, stuffed with mozzarella, and deep-fried to perfection. Served over a bold tomato sauce and topped with fresh arugula and Parmesan, they are a restaurant-worthy appetizer or light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arancini are the ultimate comfort food—crunchy, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. This version pairs the richness of fried risotto with a spicy tomato sauce that balances the dish perfectly. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these arancini make a memorable impression. They’re also a clever way to repurpose leftover risotto into something truly special.

ingredients

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

For the Arancini:

• cooked risotto (chilled)
• mozzarella cheese, cubed
• all-purpose flour
• eggs, beaten
• breadcrumbs
• vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Tomato Sauce:

• olive oil
• garlic cloves
• red chili flakes
• canned crushed tomatoes
• salt and pepper

To Serve:

• fresh arugula
• shaved Parmesan cheese

directions

1. Scoop chilled risotto into balls using about 2 tablespoons for each. Insert a cube of mozzarella into the center of each ball, then shape to seal the cheese inside.
2. Roll each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and coat in breadcrumbs.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry arancini in batches for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
4. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and chili flakes for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. To serve, spoon the spicy tomato sauce onto plates, top with warm arancini, a handful of arugula, and shaved Parmesan.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 arancini, serving 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use different cheese: Replace mozzarella with fontina, provolone, or goat cheese for a twist.
• Add herbs: Stir chopped parsley, basil, or oregano into the risotto mixture for extra flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: This version already is vegetarian, but you can omit the Parmesan or use a vegetarian substitute if needed.
• Try baked arancini: For a lighter option, bake the breaded arancini at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Use flavored breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs can enhance the flavor profile of the crust.

storage/reheating

Store leftover arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy. The tomato sauce can be stored separately and reheated on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

What type of risotto is best for arancini?

Any chilled risotto will work, but ones with minimal ingredients (like plain Parmesan risotto) make a great base for customization.

Can I make arancini ahead of time?

Yes. You can shape and bread the arancini up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until ready to fry or bake.

Can I freeze arancini?

Yes, breaded but uncooked arancini can be frozen. Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

What oil is best for frying arancini?

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

How do I prevent arancini from falling apart?

Ensure the risotto is well chilled before shaping. Press the mixture firmly around the cheese and coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.

Can I use leftover rice instead of risotto?

While possible, risotto has more starch and creaminess, which helps bind the arancini. If using plain rice, mix with a little egg and cheese for better cohesion.

Is the tomato sauce very spicy?

It has a mild kick from the chili flakes. You can increase or decrease the amount to adjust the heat level.

What can I serve with arancini?

They pair well with a side salad, sautéed greens, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make mini arancini?

Yes, use 1 tablespoon of risotto for each ball to create bite-sized arancini—perfect for appetizers or parties.

What can I do with leftover tomato sauce?

Use it as a pasta sauce, pizza base, or dipping sauce for breadsticks or mozzarella sticks.

Conclusion

Crispy Arancini with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Arugula bring together classic Italian flavors in a fun, satisfying way. Whether served as an appetizer or light entrée, these golden rice balls are guaranteed to impress. With endless variations and make-ahead potential, arancini are a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire.

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