The first bite of these Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini is pure joy, with a delightful crunch giving way to a gooey, cheesy center. It’s hard to believe that such indulgence can come from leftover risotto! I discovered this recipe one evening when I was on a mission to elevate yesterday’s dinner into something extraordinary. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish strikes the perfect balance of quick and gourmet, making it a fantastic option for anything from casual weeknight snacks to elegant party appetizers.
Imagine your kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic and freshly cracked pepper as you whip up these crispy treats. Dipping each golden ball into marinara or garlicky basil pesto takes this experience to new heights. Plus, with the air fryer doing all the heavy lifting, you can enjoy all the crunch without the guilt of deep frying! If you’re looking for an exciting way to jazz up your meals and impress your friends, these arancini are just the ticket. Let’s transform that leftover risotto into something magical!
Why Will You Love Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini?
Simplicity Meets Flavor: This recipe transforms plain leftover risotto into scrumptious bites with minimal effort.
Crispy Perfection: Air frying guarantees a golden, crunchy exterior without the mess of traditional frying.
Cheesy Delight: Each arancini is filled with gooey mozzarella, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Versatile Dipping Options: Pair with marinara or basil pesto for a delightful experience, perfect for any occasion.
Quick Cooking: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or surprise guests.
Dietary Friendly: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets, so everyone can indulge in this crispy snack.
Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini Ingredients
For the Arancini
• Leftover Cooked Risotto – Provides the flavorful base; use your favorite risotto for the best results.
• Mozzarella String Cheese Sticks – Core filling for that gooey, cheesy texture; you can substitute with a block of low-moisture mozzarella.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup) – Helps form the shape of the arancini; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp, optional) – Adds an extra layer of flavor; feel free to omit if you prefer.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the taste; adjust to your preference.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds everything together for a satisfying bite.
• Panko Bread Crumbs (1 cup) – Provides that irresistible crunch when air-fried.
• Shredded Pecorino Romano (1/2 cup + more for serving) – Enhances the cheesy flavor profile; sprinkle more on top before serving.
• Olive Oil Cooking Spray – Necessary for achieving that crispy exterior in the air fryer; a light coating is all you need.
For Serving
• Marinara and Pesto – Perfect dips to complement the arancini, elevating your snacking game with vibrant flavors.
These Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini ingredients come together to create crispy, cheesy bites that turn ordinary leftovers into extraordinary delights!
How to Make Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini
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Prepare the Cheese Filling: Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick into 6 pieces. This will create the perfect gooey center for your arancini.
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Form the Arancini: In a bowl, mix your cold leftover risotto with flour, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Shape a portion of this risotto mixture around each piece of cheese, forming delightful, bite-sized balls.
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Coat the Arancini: Dip the formed balls into the beaten eggs, ensuring they’re completely coated, then roll them in panko bread crumbs until fully coated. This will give your arancini that irresistible crunchy exterior.
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Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. Lightly spray the arancini with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Enjoy your crispy arancini hot, paired with marinara or garlic basil pesto for dipping. Each bite will be a cheesy delight!
Optional: Sprinkle additional Pecorino Romano on top before serving for an extra savory kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini
Feel free to personalize these crispy delights to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make everyone happy. It’s just as delicious!
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Cheese Swap: Try using fontina or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique twist to the gooey center.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like basil or oregano into the risotto for additional depth. This adds a fragrant touch that elevates your arancini!
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the risotto before forming the balls. Your taste buds will tingle with joy!
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or mushrooms into the risotto to pack in more nutrition and flavor. It’s a sneaky way to add some greens to your snack!
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Baked Version: For a lighter option, bake the arancini in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They may not be as crispy, but they’ll still be delightful!
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Different Coatings: Roll the arancini in ground nuts or cheese crumbs instead of regular panko for an unusual crunchy coating. This will give your dish a gourmet touch.
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Savory Sauces: Experiment with serving them alongside aioli or jalapeño ranch for a fun dipping experience. This adds a fresh twist to your dipping game!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shape the arancini up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply prepare the cheese-filled balls, coat them in egg and panko, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. To maintain their quality, ensure they are well-coated in the breadcrumbs to create that crispy exterior when air-fried. When it’s time to enjoy, just preheat your air fryer and cook the arancini straight from the fridge; there’s no need to let them come to room temperature. You’ll have delicious, crispy bites ready in minutes, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini
- Cold Risotto: Ensure your leftover risotto is cold before shaping; warm risotto can be too sticky and difficult to handle.
- Cooking Time Adjustment: Keep an eye on your air fryer as cooking times can vary; look for a golden-brown color to know when they’re done.
- Cheese Tips: If using a block of mozzarella, cut it into small cubes and freeze briefly; this will help maintain the structure when frying.
- Experiment with Dips: Try different dips like spicy marinara or creamy ranch for a flavorful twist when enjoying your arancini.
- Season Your Mixture: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings in your risotto mixture before forming the arancini; a little extra salt and pepper can go a long way!
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results without losing crispiness.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini?
Elevate your dining experience with enticing sides that complement the crispy, cheesy magic of arancini.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of arancini.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread offers a comforting option, perfect for mopping up marinara or pesto.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add a colorful, healthful touch, balancing the richness of the cheesy bites.
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Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil or a creamy sauce keep your meal light and satisfying.
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Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa with fresh herbs is a nutritious side that adds both protein and fiber, enhancing the overall meal.
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Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio beautifully complements the peppery flavor of the arancini, enriching the dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse provides the perfect sweet ending to contrast the savory flavors of your meal.
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini
Fridge: Store any leftover arancini in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked arancini on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding extra time to the air frying process.
Reheating: Reheat leftover arancini in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. This method ensures you enjoy the delightful crunch of your Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini!
Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right leftover risotto?
Absolutely! Use any leftover risotto you love—whether it’s traditional, mushroom, or even a seafood risotto. When using risotto for arancini, ensure it’s cold, as warm risotto can be sticky and difficult to shape into balls. A risotto that’s been in the fridge for a few hours or overnight is ideal for this recipe.
What is the best way to store leftover arancini?
Very! Store any leftover Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. To maintain their delicious crunch, consider reheating them in the air fryer at 375°F for about 3-5 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again.
Can I freeze uncooked arancini, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked arancini, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. You can cook them straight from frozen; just add an extra 2-3 minutes to your air fryer cooking time, checking for a golden-brown exterior.
What should I do if my arancini fall apart while shaping?
Oh no! If your arancini mixture doesn’t hold together, try adding a bit more flour to help bind it. Cold risotto is key, so if it’s warm, consider chilling it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. You can also make smaller balls to reduce the chance of falling apart.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
The more the merrier! This recipe contains cheese and eggs, so if you have allergies to dairy or eggs, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives or binding agents like ground flaxseed mixed with water for a plant-based option. If needed, gluten-free substitutes for flour and breadcrumbs work well in this recipe, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious arancini!
Crispy Air Fryer Cacio E Pepe Arancini for Quick Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the cheese filling by cutting each mozzarella string cheese stick into 6 pieces.
- Mix the cold leftover risotto with flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then shape around each piece of cheese.
- Dip the balls in beaten eggs, then roll them in panko bread crumbs until coated.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F, spray arancini with olive oil, and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot with marinara or basil pesto for dipping.