If you adore crispy, cheesy bites that burst with flavor, then this Bacon Broccoli Cheese Arancini Recipe will absolutely become your new favorite snack or appetizer. Imagine golden-fried rice balls packed with smoky bacon, tender broccoli in creamy cheese sauce, and a gooey cube of sharp cheddar right in the center. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of crunchy exterior and melted goodness inside that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party or want a soul-satisfying treat, this recipe shines with comforting flavors and simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but each plays a crucial role in making these arancini truly unforgettable—from the crispy coating to the creamy inside, everything comes together perfectly.
- 3 cups cooked white rice: The hearty base that holds all the ingredients together and crisps beautifully when fried.
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbles: Adds a smoky, savory punch that elevates the dish with each bite.
- 10 ounce package frozen broccoli in cheese sauce: Provides tender vegetables and a creamy texture that binds the rice.
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese: Cut into cubes so it melts perfectly in the center, creating that irresistible gooey surprise.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance every flavor in the mixture.
- 2 cups white flour: For coating the arancini, helping the egg and breadcrumbs stick for a crisp crust.
- 3 eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder and help the breadcrumbs adhere for frying.
- 2 cups bread crumbs: The golden, crunchy outer layer that gives arancini their classic texture.
- Canola oil for frying: Neutral-flavored oil ideal for achieving that perfect deep-fry crispiness.
- Marinara sauce for dipping: A tangy companion that complements the rich flavors of the arancini.
How to Make Bacon Broccoli Cheese Arancini Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Flavorful Filling
Start by stirring together the cooked rice, smoky bacon crumbles, and the frozen broccoli in cheese sauce until everything is evenly mixed. The broccoli and cheese mixture adds a creamy texture that binds the rice, while the bacon introduces a delicious savory depth. Pop this mixture in the fridge until it’s chilled enough to shape, which makes the next step much easier and cleaner.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating Stations
Separate the coating ingredients by placing the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs each into their own small bowls. This keeps the process organized and ensures a thorough coating on each arancini, which is key for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 3: Shape and Coat the Arancini
Once the rice mixture is nicely chilled, grab a small handful and flatten it in your palm. Nestle a cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center, then mold the rice mixture around it to form a tight ball about 2 inches in diameter. Press gently but firmly to make sure it holds. Dip each ball first into the flour, then into the egg (letting excess drip off), and finally coat it well with breadcrumbs. Lay them on a plate and keep shaping until all the mixture is used. You’ll end up with around a dozen bite-sized delights.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat about 3 inches of canola oil in a heavy pot or dutch oven until it reaches 350°F. Carefully lower the rice balls into the hot oil in batches. Cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes or until they turn a perfect golden brown and crisp on all sides. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pot to maintain the oil temperature. Once done, transfer the arancini to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Gather your favorite marinara sauce for dipping—the tangy tomato base balances the creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavor in these arancini beautifully. Serve them hot and watch how quickly everyone reaches for seconds!
How to Serve Bacon Broccoli Cheese Arancini Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the arancini. A light dusting of grated Parmesan adds a nice salty touch, while a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the crispy exterior with a subtle richness.
Side Dishes
These arancini pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of hearty soup. The contrast in textures and temperatures balances the indulgent fried bites for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the arancini on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of different dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy arrabbiata. You can also thread them onto skewers for a fun party appetizer that guests can easily grab and go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Bacon Broccoli Cheese Arancini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing to keep their texture intact.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the uncooked, breaded arancini on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month and can be fried straight from frozen with a slight increase in cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat cooked arancini, the best way to preserve their crispiness is to bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen broccoli in cheese sauce?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, steam it until tender and mix in your favorite cheese sauce before combining with the rice and bacon. This may add a fresher taste but keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.
What type of cheese works best inside the arancini?
Sharp cheddar is a fantastic choice for a melty, tangy center, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a gooey stretch or a blend of cheeses for extra richness.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature for frying?
Using a deep-fry thermometer is the easiest way to ensure the oil reaches 350°F. If you don’t have one, carefully drop a small bit of bread or batter in the oil—if it bubbles and rises quickly, the oil is ready.
Can I bake the arancini instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative! Coat the arancini as usual, then bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crispy.
Are these arancini gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses white flour and breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Bacon Broccoli Cheese Arancini Recipe enough—it’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. Cozy, crunchy, and oozing with cheesy goodness, these arancini are guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and prepare yourself for a batch of messy, irresistible bites you won’t want to share!
Print
Bacon Broccoli Cheese Arancini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (about 12 arancini balls)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious and crispy Bacon Broccoli Cheese Arancini combining creamy broccoli cheese rice with sharp cheddar and crispy bacon, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a savory appetizer or snack served with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbles
- 10 ounce package frozen broccoli in cheese sauce (cooked according to package instructions)
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breading and Frying
- 2 cups white flour
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- Canola oil for frying
Serving
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the rice mixture: In a large bowl, stir together the cooked rice, bacon crumbles, and cooked broccoli in cheese sauce until well combined. Leave the cubed sharp cheddar cheese separate. Place the mixture in the fridge to chill until firm enough to handle.
- Set up breading stations: Place the flour, beaten eggs, and bread crumbs into three separate small bowls for coating the arancini.
- Form the arancini balls: Once chilled, take a small amount of the rice mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place one cube of sharp cheddar cheese in the center, then cover with more rice mixture to form a firm ball approximately 2 inches in diameter. Dip each ball completely in flour, then coat with egg (letting excess drip off), and finally dredge thoroughly in bread crumbs. Repeat until all mixture is used. This recipe makes about 12 balls.
- Heat oil and fry: Heat about 3 inches of canola oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry the arancini in batches, cooking each batch for approximately 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the hot arancini with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious crispy, cheesy, and savory arancini!
Notes
- Make sure the rice mixture is well chilled before forming to help retain shape while frying.
- Use a thermometer to keep the oil temperature steady at 350°F for optimal frying results.
- Sharp cheddar cubes inside provide a gooey melted center; use fresh cheese for best results.
- You can customize by adding herbs like parsley or adjusting the amount of bacon to taste.
- Leftover arancini can be reheated in a toaster oven to regain crispiness.
