Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni

Name: Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked white rice, cooled; 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni slices; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg, beaten; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Oil for frying; Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Isabella

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Looking for a delicious and satisfying snack that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than these irresistible Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick appetizer, or simply craving a tasty treat, these crispy rice balls are sure to please. Packed with gooey mozzarella cheese, savory pepperoni, and Parmesan, these little delights are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked white rice, cooled

1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup chopped pepperoni slices

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Oil for frying

Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice, grated mozzarella cheese, chopped pepperoni slices, and grated Parmesan cheese. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Add the beaten egg to the rice mixture and mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. The egg will help bind the ingredients together, ensuring the rice balls hold their shape during frying.
Take a portion of the rice mixture and shape it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. The mixture should hold together easily, but if it feels too loose, you can add a bit more cheese or breadcrumbs to help bind it.

Roll the rice ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. The breadcrumbs will give the rice balls a crispy exterior when fried, adding a delightful texture to each bite.
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the rice balls in the pan, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry the rice balls until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
Once the rice balls are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oil and drain any excess oil on paper towels. This will help remove any excess grease, leaving you with perfectly crispy rice balls.

Serve the rice balls warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired. The tangy marinara sauce complements the cheesy and savory flavors of the rice balls, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.
Enjoy your delicious Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni as a savory snack, appetizer, or party treat. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them on your own, these crispy delights are sure to be a hit!

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: 1 rice ball

Calories: Approximately 120 kcal
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12g

Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 5g

Related Recipes:

EASY GARLIC BREAD PIZZA

Serving Tips:

Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the rice balls before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with Dipping Sauces: In addition to marinara sauce, consider serving the rice balls with other dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo for variety.

Create a Platter: Arrange the rice balls on a platter with some fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and carrot sticks for a well-balanced snack or appetizer spread.
Pair with Beverages: Serve the rice balls alongside your favorite beverages such as beer, wine, or sparkling water for a delightful pairing experience.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation.

Reheating: To reheat the rice balls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place them on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Freezing: You can also freeze the rice balls for longer storage. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen rice balls in the refrigerator overnight. Then follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan cheese are traditionally used in this recipe, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese according to your preference. Cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses can add a unique flavor profile to your rice balls.

Can I make these rice balls ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture and shape the balls ahead of time. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. This makes party planning much easier, allowing you to focus on other preparations.

Can I bake these rice balls instead of frying them?

While frying gives the rice balls their signature crispy texture, you can certainly bake them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the shaped rice balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure to lightly spray or brush them with oil before baking to help them crisp up.

What can I serve with these rice balls besides marinara sauce?

While marinara sauce is a classic dipping option, there are plenty of other delicious accompaniments you can try. Try dipping your rice balls in salsa verde, pesto, sweet chili sauce, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a flavor twist. Additionally, serving them alongside a side salad or some roasted vegetables can make for a satisfying meal. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different dipping sauces and side dishes to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion:

With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these delectable Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni in no time. Whether you’re craving a savory snack or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these crispy treats are sure to satisfy. So why wait? Get cooking and treat yourself to a taste sensation that’s cheesy, savory, and downright irresistible!

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