By Bring Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni to your table with an easy method and crowd-pleasing taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike.
Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni captures the essence of breads & pastries while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
2 cups cooked white rice, cooled
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped pepperoni slices
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Oil for frying
Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
PREPARATION STEPS
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice, grated mozzarella cheese, chopped pepperoni slices, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Add the beaten egg and mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
Take a portion of the rice mixture and shape it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball.
Roll the rice ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the rice balls in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Serve the rice balls warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 25 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 50 min | Servings: 10 | Calories: ~260 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
