These Italian Cauliflower Rice Balls (Arancini) are made with cauliflower in place of rice! Lower in carbs and baked or made in the air fryer!
Appetizer
4.7 (96)

Cauliflower Rice Arancini

"These delightful Italian Cauliflower Rice Balls, also known as Arancini, utilize cauliflower instead of traditional rice! They offer a lower-carb option and can be baked or prepared in an air fryer for a healthier twist!"

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Servings
2 servings
Calories
257
American, ItalianTotal: 30 minutes

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Ingredients

  • 1 Italian chicken sausage link
  • 2 tablespoons homemade marinara
  • 1/2 cup part skim shredded mozzarella
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs*
  • 1 tablespoon grated Pecorino Romano or parmesan*
  • cooking spray
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 1/4 cups riced cauliflower

Instructions

  1. 1

    Begin by warming a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Introduce the sausage to the pan, using a spoon to break it apart into small pieces as it browns, cooking for approximately 4 to 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Next, incorporate the cauliflower, salt, and marinara sauce into the skillet. Continue to cook for 6 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently until the cauliflower becomes tender and is heated through.

  3. 3

    Once done, take the skillet off the heat and mix in the mozzarella cheese thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cool for about 3 to 4 minutes, making it manageable to handle.

  4. 4

    Lightly coat a 1/4 cup measuring cup with cooking spray, then fill it with the cauliflower mixture, ensuring the top is leveled off. Use a small spoon to transfer the mixture into your palm and shape it into a ball. Place it on a plate and set aside.

  5. 5

    Continue this process with the remaining cauliflower mixture, aiming to form a total of 6 balls.

  6. 6

    In one bowl, crack an egg, and in another bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs.

  7. 7

    Combine the grated parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs, mixing well.

  8. 8

    Take each ball, dip it into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture before placing it on a baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.

  9. 9

    For oven baking, set the temperature to 425°F and cook for 25 minutes until they turn golden brown. If using an air fryer, set it to 400°F and cook for 9 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden.

  10. 10

    Serve the arancini with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Information

257
Calories
21.5g
Protein
15.6g
Carbs
11.5g
Fat
5g
Sat. Fat
644mg
Sodium
* Nutrition information is per serving (3 balls)

Notes & Tips

  • *half of the crumbs get tossed, the n.i. and smart points accounts for that.

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