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If you’ve been searching for that one Christmas appetizer that *everybody* grabs before it even hits the table, these Mini Arancini Balls with Marinara Dip are about to become your new holiday secret weapon. Seriously — every time I serve these, they vanish faster than the last slice of chocolate cake. Ever wondered why some party snacks disappear instantly while others sit sadly untouched? These crispy little Italian rice balls solve that mystery.
I’ve always loved Italian appetizers, especially anything involving cheese, carbs, and the promise of tomato sauce. IMO, that’s the magic trio of life 🙂 These Mini Arancini Balls take everything we love about comfort food and turn it into a cute, bite-sized holiday crowd-pleaser. If you’re planning Christmas Party Food Appetizers, curating your Christmas Charcuterie Board, or simply want Easy Christmas Appetizers you can prep ahead, these adorable Risotto Balls will check every box.
What I love most about Italian Arancini Balls is how flexible they are. You can stuff them with mozzarella, mix in parmesan, coat them in panko, or even bake them if you’re feeling virtuous (no judgment… well, maybe a little). They also work amazingly for Make Ahead Party Appetizers because you can freeze them, fry them later, and still get that irresistible crispy-outside-gooey-inside bite.
So if you’re ready to serve an appetizer that screams “I’m fancy” but secretly takes very little effort, let’s make these irresistible Mini Arancini Balls with Marinara Dip.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked risotto (cooled completely; leftover risotto works perfectly)
- 1 cup mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup marinara sauce (warm, for dipping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Place cooled risotto in a large bowl and mix in parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Take a small spoonful of risotto and flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Add a tiny cube of mozzarella in the center, then shape the risotto around it to form a ball.
- Roll each arancini ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Fry the arancini in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Place the cooked arancini on a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Warm the marinara sauce in a small bowl.
- Serve the arancini hot with marinara dip and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try one of these fun twists:
- Baked Arancini Balls: Brush with oil and bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.
- Gluten-Free Arancini: Use GF breadcrumbs and GF flour — turns out great!
- Cheesy Explosion: Add both mozzarella and provolone inside for double cheese magic.
Serving & Tips
Serve these warm for the best melty-mozzarella moment. They pair amazingly with Christmas Dinner Appetizers, antipasto platters, charcuterie boards, or any holiday grazing table.
To make them ahead, shape the arancini balls and freeze them before frying. They fry beautifully from frozen — just add 1–2 extra minutes of cooking time. They’re one of the best Freezer Friendly Appetizers I’ve ever made, and they save me every holiday season. FYI, if you want a super elegant presentation, serve them in mini cups with a spoonful of marinara at the bottom. Instant Pinterest moment 😉
If you’re serving these for a crowd, double (or triple!) the batch — these little cuties disappear fast.
Final Thoughts
These Mini Arancini Balls with Marinara Dip are the kind of appetizer that make people follow you around the party asking, “Do you have more of those crispy Italian things?” They’re comforting, festive, cheesy, cute, and honestly just fun to eat. They’ve become one of my go-to holiday recipes because they never fail to impress — and they always make the table feel a little more joyful.
FAQs
Can I make arancini without leftover risotto?
Yes! Just make a fresh batch of risotto, let it cool completely, and then use it. Warm risotto won’t hold its shape well.
Can I freeze Mini Arancini Balls?
Absolutely. Freeze before frying for best results. They fry perfectly from frozen and stay crispy.
What dipping sauces work besides marinara?
Garlic aioli, pesto, spicy arrabbiata, or even truffle mayo taste amazing with arancini bites.
Can I bake arancini instead of frying?
Yes! Brush with oil and bake until golden. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but they’re still delicious.
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