Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls
Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls are a delightful twist on traditional Italian arancini. These crispy, cheesy bites are made with riced cauliflower and packed with flavor, making them a perfect appetizer or snack. With the addition of Italian chicken sausage, homemade marinara, and gooey mozzarella, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Cooks everywhere are falling in love with Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile—perfect for parties, game days, or as a special treat for your family. The combination of flavors from the sausage, cheese, and marinara creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Additionally, these arancini balls are a healthier alternative to their rice counterparts, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. And let’s not forget how easy they are to make; you’ll be amazed at how quick they come together!
The Essentials
To create these delicious Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 Italian chicken sausage link – Casing removed (2 3/4 oz)
- 2 1/4 cups riced cauliflower – Frozen works great
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons homemade marinara – Plus optional more for serving
- 1/2 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella
- 1 large egg – Beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs – Or gluten-free crumbs
- 1 tablespoon grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan
- Cooking spray
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Large mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
- Baking sheet – To bake the arancini balls.
- Oven – Preheated to ensure even cooking.
- Large skillet – For cooking the sausage.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – For shaping the balls.
Cook Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls Like This
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice
Begin by cooking the riced cauliflower. If using frozen cauliflower, simply microwave it according to the package instructions until heated through. Once cooked, drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy arancini balls.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian chicken sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked riced cauliflower, cooked sausage, kosher salt, homemade marinara, shredded mozzarella, beaten egg, bread crumbs, and grated cheese. Mix everything until well combined.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, take a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up. You should have about 10-12 balls.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray. Place the arancini balls on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
Step 6: Bake the Arancini Balls
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can flip them halfway through baking for even browning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with additional marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!
Variations for Dietary Needs
If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, here are some variations you can try:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit them entirely for a lower-carb option.
- Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives.
- Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick.
- Cheesy: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique flavor.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
These Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls are not only a fantastic way to use up leftover riced cauliflower, but they also freeze beautifully! Just shape the balls and freeze them raw on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. They make for a quick and easy snack or appetizer anytime!
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the baked arancini balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. Enjoy them within 2 months for the best quality!
Ask & Learn
Can I make these Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.
What can I serve with these arancini balls?
These Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls pair wonderfully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. You could also serve them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I bake instead of frying these balls?
Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative to frying, and the arancini balls will still turn out crispy and delicious when baked in the oven.
Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cauliflower! Simply steam or boil it until tender, then let it cool before ricing and using it in the recipe.
Hungry for More?
If you’re loving these Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls, you’ll want to explore more delicious recipes that highlight the versatility of cauliflower. Try your hand at cauliflower mash, cauliflower pizza crust, or even cauliflower buffalo wings. The possibilities are endless when it comes to this humble vegetable!
With a burst of flavor in every bite, Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls are sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for any occasion, these little delights will impress even the pickiest eaters. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously healthy treat that everyone will love!
Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cooking the riced cauliflower. If using frozen cauliflower, simply microwave it according to the package instructions until heated through. Once cooked, drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy arancini balls.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian chicken sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked riced cauliflower, cooked sausage, kosher salt, homemade marinara, shredded mozzarella, beaten egg, bread crumbs, and grated cheese. Mix everything until well combined.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, take a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up. You should have about 10-12 balls.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray. Place the arancini balls on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can flip them halfway through baking for even browning.
- Remove the Cauliflower Rice (Arancini) Balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with additional marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!
Notes
- These arancini balls freeze beautifully; bake them straight from the freezer!
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit them entirely.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor.
