Air Fryer Arancini
Ready in about 42 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Golden Italian risotto balls with a molten mozzarella centre and crisp breadcrumb shell. The air fryer gives that irresistible crunch with only a light spray of oil, ideal for using up leftover risotto.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 500 g cold cooked risotto
- 50 g grated Parmesan
- 100 g mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 100 g panko breadcrumbs
- 50 g plain flour
- Salt and pepper
- Spray oil
Method
- 1Mix the cold risotto with Parmesan, salt and pepper.
- 2Take a spoonful, press a mozzarella cube into the centre and roll into a ball, sealing the cheese inside.
- 3Coat each ball in flour, then egg, then panko.
- 4Preheat the air fryer to 190°C/375°F and mist the arancini with oil.
- 5Cook for 10-13 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and deep golden.
- 6Rest 2 minutes, then serve with marinara sauce.
Tips for the best results
- Use cold, firm risotto so the balls hold their shape.
- Seal the cheese fully in the centre to stop it leaking out.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer arancini steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the flip halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Letting wet coating pieces touch, which peels the crust and keeps it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer arancini?
A typical starting point is 190°C / 375°F for 10-13 min, flip halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
Can I make air fryer arancini ahead?
Cook it, cool it quickly, and refrigerate. Reheat in the air fryer at a slightly lower temperature so the outside does not dry before the middle is hot.
How many people does air fryer arancini serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.