Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Cheese and Pepper Rice Balls are a delicious snack that bring comfort food to a new level. They are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Using leftover risotto cuts down on waste and is a great way to create a new dish. Plus, making them in the air fryer means less oil and a quicker cooking time. Perfect for parties, game days, or as a tasty appetizer, these rice balls are sure to please everyone.
How to Make Air Fryer Cheese and Pepper Rice Balls
Ingredients
- 4 cups leftover cooked risotto
- 4 mozzarella string cheese sticks, each cut into 6 pieces crosswise
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded Pecorino Romano, plus more for serving
- Olive oil cooking spray
- Store-bought or homemade marinara and pesto, for serving
Directions
- Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop risotto into 24 portions and put them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Make an indent in the center of each ball and place a piece of mozzarella inside. Shape the risotto around the cheese to form a ball, ensuring the risotto completely covers the mozzarella.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour and garlic powder (if you are using it). Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, combine the panko and Pecorino, and season with pepper.
- Working one at a time, coat each risotto ball in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the eggs, then coat it in the panko mixture.
- Spray the air-fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange half of the balls in the basket and spray the tops with more cooking spray.
- Cook at 400°F, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown, about 15 minutes. Repeat with the remaining balls.
- Transfer the rice balls to a platter, top with more Pecorino, and season with pepper. Serve with marinara and pesto on the side.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cheese and Pepper Rice Balls
These rice balls are perfect as finger foods, making them great for parties. Serve them warm with marinara sauce and pesto for dipping. You can also pair them with a fresh salad as a light meal.
How to Store Air Fryer Cheese and Pepper Rice Balls
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Cheese and Pepper Rice Balls
- Make sure to tightly pack the risotto around the mozzarella to prevent leakage during frying.
- Experiment with different cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
- If you want more crunch, add extra panko bread crumbs or try a mix of breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes.
Variation
You can add herbs like parsley or basil to your risotto for extra flavor. Try incorporating different spices to change the taste profile.
FAQs
Can I use regular rice instead of risotto?
Yes, but using risotto gives it a creamier texture and better holds the shape.
Can I freeze these rice balls?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled rice balls before cooking. When ready to cook, no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I know when they are cooked through?
They should be golden brown on the outside and heated inside. You can cut one open to check if the cheese is melted.
