Crispy Air Fryer Arancini: A Comfort Food Game Changer

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

When the craving for something delicious hits, I often find myself reminiscing about my favorite Italian comfort food: arancini. These delightful rice balls, typically served as a snack, bring a satisfying crunch and ooey-gooey center that s hard to resist. One chilly afternoon, while flipping through a recipe book, I came across a brilliant idea making air fryer arancini! Imagine transforming the traditional dish into a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility; you can fill these golden orbs with rich mozzarella or elevate them with a medley of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether it s a game night with friends or a cozy dinner for two, these crispy bites are sure to impress, making fast food feel like a distant memory. So, roll up your sleeves and let s dive into this easy, mouthwatering treat that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen!

Why will you love Air Fryer Arancini?

Crispy, these golden bites offer a satisfying crunch that s hard to resist.
Flavor-packed, each rice ball is filled with gooey mozzarella and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Quick and easy, using the air fryer saves time while delivering all the traditional taste without the fuss.
Versatile, perfect for parties, snacks, or a fun family dinner, they cater to all tastes.
Bring an Italian classic home and enjoy every bite as a delightful alternative to fast food!

Air Fryer Arancini Ingredients

Get ready to whip up these delicious Air Fryer Arancini with a few simple ingredients!

For the Risotto

• Arborio rice this short-grain rice is essential for creating that creamy texture.
• Chicken stock enhances the flavor of the risotto; feel free to use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
• Diced onion adds depth to the risotto base with its sweet and savory notes.
• Minced garlic infuses a fragrant aroma and robust flavor into the mix.
• Olive oil helps sauté the onions for a rich taste and promotes healthy fats.
• Butter a must for creaminess, making your risotto luxuriously rich.
• Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to the risotto, amplifying its richness.

For the Filling

• Low moisture mozzarella cheese provides that ooey-gooey center that is simply irresistible.

For the Breading

• Flour helps the egg adhere to the risotto balls, creating a perfect coating.
• Eggs when beaten, they act as a binding agent for the breadcrumbs.
• Panko breadcrumbs delivers a wonderfully crunchy exterior when air-fried.

Transform these ingredients into crispy delights that will make you forget all about fast food!

How to Make Air Fryer Arancini

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F. On medium heat, add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to a Dutch oven, sautéing the diced onion for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic for an additional minute.

2. Toast the Arborio rice in the onion and garlic mixture, cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly browned and slightly translucent.

3. Mix in 4 cups of chicken stock, along with salt and pepper. Cover the Dutch oven and bake in the oven for 45 minutes, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice achieves an al dente texture.

4. Combine remaining chicken stock, Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of butter into the baked risotto. Spread it on a sheet pan and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes until it s manageable to handle.

5. Shape your arancini! Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cooled risotto with wet hands, creating a ball. Make an indentation in the center, add a cube of mozzarella, then close the rice around the cheese, shaping it back into a ball. Place on a parchment-lined sheet pan and repeat the process.

6. Prepare a breading station: set up bowls of flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each rice ball in flour, dip it in egg, and roll it in panko to create a crispy coating. Return the breaded balls to the sheet pan.

7. Air fry the arancini! Spray the balls lightly with cooking spray and cook them in the air fryer at 390 °F for 10 minutes, rotating them every 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Serve warm on a platter with marinara dipping sauce.

Optional: Drizzle with some fresh herbs for added flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Arancini

• Perfect Rice: Make sure to use Arborio rice as it absorbs liquid and releases starch, giving the risotto a creamy texture essential for Air Fryer Arancini.
• Don t Overcook: Keep an eye on the baking risotto; if it s overcooked, it can become mushy, impacting the final texture of your arancini.
• Cool it Down: Allow the risotto to cool completely before shaping the balls; this helps them hold their shape during frying.
• Breading Technique: Ensure even coating by pressing lightly while rolling in panko breadcrumbs, which makes for a crispier finish once air-fried.
• Cooking Time: Remember to rotate the arancini every few minutes for an even golden crust; this prevents uneven cooking or sogginess.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve with marinara sauce or a garlic aioli for an extra flavor boost; it s the perfect complement to your crispy Air Fryer Arancini!

Air Fryer Arancini Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and elevate your arancini with these delightful twists!

• Vegetarian: Swap chicken stock for vegetable stock and use ricotta for a creamy filling, making it a plant-based treat.
• Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the risotto for a burst of bright flavor that complements the richness.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the rice for a fiery, flavor-packed surprise!
• Cheesy Delight: Try mixing in a blend of different cheeses, like fontina or provolone, for more gooey goodness inside.
• Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the risotto for an unexpected depth that pairs beautifully with the crispy exterior.
• Bacon Lovers: Add crumbled bacon or pancetta to the risotto before shaping for a savory crunch that s absolutely irresistible.
• Nutty Texture: Roll the arancini in crushed nuts (like pistachios or walnuts) alongside panko for an extra crunchy layer with a pleasant surprise.
• Fruity Twist: Experiment with sun-dried tomatoes or olives mixed into the rice, giving your arancini a robust Mediterranean flair.

These variations open a world of possibilities and bring a unique touch to your Air Fryer Arancini experience!

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Arancini

Room Temperature: Keep leftover Air Fryer Arancini at room temperature for up to 2 hours; if longer, refrigerate to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a crispy finish.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked arancini on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Bake frozen arancini straight from the freezer in the air fryer at 390 °F for about 12-15 minutes, making them crispy and hot again.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Arancini?

Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing delightful bites of crispy goodness and savoring every moment together.

• Marinara Sauce: The classic pairing, it adds a tangy freshness that perfectly complements the cheesy richness of the arancini.
• Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, it s a savory addition that balances the flavors while providing that satisfying crunch.
• Simple Salad: A light mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the richness of the risotto balls. It s a delightful way to introduce bright, fresh flavors to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies, like zucchini and bell peppers, bring earthy flavors, providing a perfect balance to your crispy delights.
• Creamy Risotto: Get double the joy with another layer of creamy risotto, perhaps flavored with herbs; it s a comforting way to celebrate this Italian staple!
• Sparkling Wine: Bubbles provide a light and effervescent quality that elevates the meal, ensuring every bite feels like a celebration.
• Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this rich, velvety treat is an indulgent way to end the meal, complementing the savory notes of your air fryer arancini with a sweet finale.
• Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider offers a seasonal touch, its sweetness providing a delightful contrast to the savory flavors on your plate.

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Arancini are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the risotto up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. After baking, allow the risotto to completely cool, and then shape the arancini balls and coat them in panko. Arrange them on a sheet pan and refrigerate for up to 3 days before cooking. When you re ready to serve, simply pop them in the air fryer without thawing; they ll cook just as delightfully crispy! This way, you save time during busy weeknights while enjoying the same delicious flavors all with minimal effort!

Air Fryer Arancini Recipe FAQs

What type of rice should I use for making arancini?
Absolutely! You should use Arborio rice, which is a short-grain rice known for its high starch content. This starch is key to creating that creamy texture in both the risotto and the arancini. Avoid long-grain rice as it won t give you the same rich consistency.

How should I store leftover Air Fryer Arancini?
For storing, place your leftover arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat them in the air fryer to regain that crispy crust it s a game changer!

Can I freeze Air Fryer Arancini?
Very! To freeze, first make sure the arancini are unbaked. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once they re frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

What if my risotto is too runny for shaping into balls?
If your risotto turns out a bit too wet, don t worry; it happens to the best of us! Simply spread it onto a sheet pan and let it cool a bit longer, allowing excess moisture to evaporate. If it remains too soft, you can mix in a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs to help absorb the liquid and provide a better structure for shaping.

Can I make these arancini gluten-free?
Of course! To adapt this recipe for a gluten-free option, please substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the coating. This way, everyone can enjoy deliciously crispy Air Fryer Arancini without worries!

How long do cooked arancini last in the fridge?
Cooked Air Fryer Arancini can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they re in an airtight container, and when you re ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer at 390 °F for about 5-7 minutes for that perfect crunch once again!