Mozzarella Rice Balls
Crispy mozzarella rice balls with roasted red peppers and Parmesan offer a cheesy, savory snack or appetizer, perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, roasted red peppers, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper.
- Shape the rice mixture into balls using about 1/3 cup of mixture for each ball.
- Gently insert a cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each rice ball.
- Reshape the rice mixture around the cheese to completely cover it.
- Coat each rice ball with Italian-style bread crumbs.
- Fry the coated rice balls in 6 cups of hot olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with marinara sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or parsley to the rice mixture. If you're out of mozzarella, you can substitute with provolone or any melting cheese. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying by testing with a small piece of bread; it should bubble immediately. These rice balls are a great way to use leftover rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mozzarella rice balls warm, drizzled with marinara sauce for dipping. They make a delightful appetizer or snack and pair well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside Thompson'S Summer Pasta or a light Italian salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mozzarella rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mozzarella Rice Balls contains roughly 2123 calories, with 18g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 187g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2119mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these rice balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice balls and refrigerate them before frying. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before frying. This helps them cook evenly and maintain their shape.
What can I use instead of olive oil for frying?
If you prefer not to use olive oil, you can substitute it with canola oil or vegetable oil, which both have high smoke points and neutral flavors. However, olive oil adds a lovely richness to the rice balls.
How can I make these rice balls vegan?
To make vegan mozzarella rice balls, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella. Adjust seasonings to taste for a delicious plant-based version.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).