As the countdown to the New Year begins, I find myself craving something special to serve at my celebration something that combines comfort and indulgence. Enter these Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini! Inspired by the classic Italian dish, these crispy cheese-stuffed risotto bites are a delightful way to elevate any gathering. With their golden-brown exterior and creamy mozzarella center, they deliver a burst of rich, peppery flavor in every bite.
After a festive feast, we often find ourselves with leftover risotto, and I discovered that it makes the perfect base for creating these delectable snacks! Not only are they easy to prepare, but the air fryer gives them that satisfying crunch without the guilt of excessive oil. Whether you’re hosting a chic New Year’s party or just looking for a cozy appetizer for your evening at home, these tasty arancini are sure to impress and disappear quickly. Let’s dive into how you can transform your leftover risotto into a crowd-pleasing treat!
Why will you love Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini?
Simplicity made delicious: With just a few ingredients, you can transform leftover risotto into an irresistible treat.
Crispy exterior, gooey center: Each bite delivers that satisfying crunch while revealing a warm, cheesy surprise.
Flavor-packed perfection: Enriched with classic cacio e pepe flavors, these arancini are a gourmet delight.
Quick prep time: Ready in about 15 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve them at your New Year’s party, and watch your guests come back for seconds!
Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini Ingredients
For the Arancini
• Leftover Cooked Risotto – The base of the arancini; gives structure. Ensure it’s well-seasoned for flavor.
• Mozzarella String Cheese Sticks – For the cheesy center; preferred for gooey texture. Can substitute with low-moisture mozzarella block.
• All-Purpose Flour (60 g) – Breading support for a crispy coating. Alternative: use gluten-free flour for a GF version.
• Garlic Powder (optional) – Adds flavor depth. Skip if not preferred.
• Kosher Salt – Seasoning to enhance overall taste. Use to taste.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds the classic cacio e pepe flavor. Adjust for spice preference.
• Large Eggs – Binds the coating together. Ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
• Panko Bread Crumbs – For extra crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs can be used if panko is unavailable.
• Shredded Pecorino Romano – Additional cheesy flavor; sprinkle on finished arancini. Parmesan can substitute for a similar taste.
• Olive Oil Cooking Spray – For frying to enhance crispiness. Can also brush lightly with oil instead.
For Dipping
• Marinara and Pesto – Dipping sauces that complement the flavor of the arancini. Choose store-bought for convenience or make homemade.
How to Make Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini
- Prepare Cheese Center: Cut mozzarella string cheese sticks into six equal pieces. This will create that gooey cheese surprise in your arancini.
- Shape Arancini: Take a scoop of risotto (about an ice cream scoop size), flatten it in your palm, place a cheese piece in the center, and mold the risotto around it into a ball. Ensure a tight seal so the cheese doesn’t leak out during frying.
- Breading Station: Set up three bowls – one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This station will help you get that perfect crispy coating.
- Coat Arancini: Roll each ball in flour first, making sure it’s fully covered. Then, dip it in the egg, letting any excess drip off, and finally, coat thoroughly with panko. Repeat for all the arancini, ensuring they’re well-covered for maximum crunch.
- Air Frying: Place the prepared arancini in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between them for even cooking. Spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. They should be beautifully crunchy on the outside.
Optional: Serve warm with a side of marinara and pesto for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini are perfect for busy weeknights or upcoming gatherings as they can easily be prepared ahead of time! You can shape the arancini up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply roll each risotto ball in the flour, dip in the egg, and coat with panko as normal. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your air fryer and cook the arancini directly from the fridge for about 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This way, you’ll enjoy golden, crispy bites that are just as delicious as freshly made—saving you precious time and effort in the kitchen!
Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious twists!
- Cheese Swap: Replace mozzarella with fontina or gouda for unique melting flavors. Each cheese brings its distinctive taste, inviting curiosity with every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or parsley into the risotto for a pop of color and freshness. This delicate herb infusion elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Veggie Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers to the risotto. These colorful additions not only enhance flavors but also provide nutritional boosts.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a friendly alternative that everyone can enjoy without compromising flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the risotto for those who love a little heat. The spice complements the creamy texture while keeping the essence intact.
- Pesto Surprise: Instead of just mozzarella, put a dollop of pesto inside each arancini. This surprise ingredient gives you a delightful herby bite that enhances each crunch.
- Breading Variation: Use crushed tortilla chips instead of panko for an unexpected crunchy twist. The flavor and texture combined make for an exciting new experience.
- Sundried Tomato Accent: Mix chopped sundried tomatoes into the risotto. This subtly sweet addition offers a Mediterranean flair that tantalizes the taste buds and adds a lovely visual appeal.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini
Fridge: Store leftover air fryer cacio e pepe arancini in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you’ve made extra, freeze uncooked arancini on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat cooked arancini, gently air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again.
Before Cooking: If cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the air fry time to ensure they’re heated through.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini
- Right Temperature: Ensure the leftover risotto is cool enough to handle. If too hot, it will be difficult to shape into balls.
- Cheese Selection: Use low-moisture mozzarella cheese to prevent a soggy center. Fresh mozzarella could become watery when cooked.
- Even Arrangement: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Spacing allows for hot air circulation, ensuring all arancini become crispy and evenly cooked.
- Crispy Coating: For extra crunch, consider double-dipping the arancini in the egg and panko mixture. This creates a thicker coating for that perfect crunch.
- Temperature Adjustment: If your arancini aren’t browning as expected, adjust the air fryer temperature slightly higher for the last few minutes for a beautifully crispy finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with homemade or store-bought marinara and pesto to enhance the Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini’s delicious flavor!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini?
Transform your holiday gathering into a delightful feast with these irresistible crispy bites.
- Creamy Risotto: A comforting side that echoes the arancini’s flavors, making for a cohesive and satisfying meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, these sticks are perfect for dipping into marinara, adding a classic touch.
- Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery crunch of arugula paired with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich arancini.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies complements the cheesy bites while adding vibrant colors and added nutrition to your plate.
- Italian Wine Spritzers: Light and refreshing, the bubbly nature of a wine spritzer enhances the flavors of the arancini without overwhelming the palate.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Tart: End on a sweet note with this indulgent dessert, balancing the savory richness of the arancini with a sweet and creamy finish.
Don’t forget a cozy atmosphere and moments of laughter to truly celebrate the occasion!
Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini Recipe FAQs
What type of risotto works best for these arancini?
I recommend using leftover risotto that’s well-seasoned and has a creamy texture. For the best results, ensure it’s not too moist, as this can make shaping the balls difficult. If your risotto is a bit dry, adding a splash of broth or a touch of olive oil can help revive it.
How do I store leftover arancini?
Store any leftover air fryer cacio e pepe arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Can I freeze unused arancini?
Absolutely! For freezing, arrange the uncooked arancini on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook straight from the freezer, adding an extra 3-5 minutes to the air frying time to ensure they’re heated through.
What should I do if my arancini aren’t crispy?
If your arancini aren’t achieving that desired crunch, check that you have enough space in the air fryer basket; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying. You can also consider double-dipping in the egg and panko coating for an extra crispy finish. Lastly, ensure your air fryer is preheated and try increasing the temperature slightly during the last few minutes of cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but it’s important to check for any gluten sensitivities if using regular breadcrumbs. For gluten-free options, you can substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, if serving to pets or those with allergies, keep in mind that cheese can be problematic for some dogs and cats, and always check for any nut or dairy intolerances in your guests.
What are some variations I can try with these arancini?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like gouda or fontina for different flavor profiles. Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the risotto gives a lovely herbal note. You might also experiment by incorporating different fillings like sautéed mushrooms or cooked veggies for added color and taste.
Crunchy Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini for Your New Year’s Bash
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Cheese Center: Cut mozzarella string cheese sticks into six equal pieces.
- Shape Arancini: Take a scoop of risotto, flatten it in your palm, place a cheese piece in the center, and mold the risotto around it into a ball.
- Breading Station: Set up three bowls – one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with kosher salt and pepper.
- Coat Arancini: Roll each ball in flour first, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly with panko.
- Air Frying: Place arancini in air fryer, lightly spray with olive oil, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes.
- Optional: Serve warm with a side of marinara and pesto for dipping.