Cheese Rice Balls

Cheese Rice Balls Recipe - Easy and Delicious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cheese rice balls are a delicious and savory snack or appetizer that are perfect for any occasion. These crispy and cheesy balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of cheese rice balls are not entirely clear, but they are believed to have originated in Italy. They are a popular dish in many Italian households and are often served as a side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients

1.5 cups cooked rice
1 10 oz (283 g) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
0.33 cup dry bread crumbs
1 1.3 oz (37 g) package golden onion soup mix
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 eggs, beaten
0.25 cup milk

How to prepare

Combine rice, spinach, Cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, soup mix, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and milk in a large mixing bowl.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a well-greased baking sheet.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 10 to 15 minutes.
Serve the balls warm or at room temperature with fresh peaches, pears, nectarines, or plums.

Variations

You can add cooked bacon or ham to the mixture for a meatier version.
Try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or Gouda for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.

- You can customize the recipe by adding different types of cheese or herbs for extra flavor.

- To make the balls extra crispy, you can roll them in additional bread crumbs before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Cheese rice balls can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair well with fresh fruits like peaches, pears, nectarines, or plums.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred cooking technique for cheese rice balls, as it helps to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen, just make sure to cook it before adding it to the mixture.

- If you don't have golden onion soup mix, you can use a combination of onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese rice ball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cheese rice balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving. You can also garnish them with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cheese rice balls pair well with a variety of beverages such as white wine, beer, or sparkling water. They also go well with a side salad or vegetable dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cheese rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cheese rice balls contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cheese rice balls contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cheese rice balls contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of cheese rice balls contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheese rice balls are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Cheese rice balls contain dairy (cheese and milk) and gluten (bread crumbs).

Summary

Cheese rice balls are a tasty and satisfying snack that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cheese rice balls are a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a cheesy interior, these balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with your favorite fruits and beverages.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a dreary afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I turned the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Cheese Rice Balls that seemed to jump out at me.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about the combination of creamy cheese and fluffy rice intrigued me. I decided then and there that I had to learn how to make these delectable little treats.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, carefully measuring out each one as I followed the recipe step by step. The smell of melting cheese filled the air as I mixed the rice and cheese together, forming small balls that I rolled in breadcrumbs before frying them to golden perfection.

As I took my first bite of a warm, gooey Cheese Rice Ball, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. The cheesy goodness melted in my mouth, and I savored every bite, savoring the unique flavor that I had never experienced before.

I quickly learned that this recipe was a favorite among my family and friends. Whenever I made a batch of Cheese Rice Balls, they would disappear almost as quickly as I could fry them up. Everyone raved about the delicious combination of cheesy goodness and crispy breadcrumbs, begging me to share the recipe with them.

Over the years, I have made these Cheese Rice Balls countless times, perfecting the recipe with each batch. I have added my own twist to the original recipe, experimenting with different types of cheese and seasonings to create a unique flavor profile that has become a signature dish in my repertoire.

I have shared the recipe with countless people, passing it down through the generations so that others can enjoy the same delicious taste that captivated me so many years ago. I have taught my children and grandchildren how to make Cheese Rice Balls, instilling in them a love for cooking and a deep appreciation for the joy that comes from creating something delicious from scratch.

Each time I make a batch of Cheese Rice Balls, I am reminded of the first time I saw that recipe in my mother's old cookbook. It was a moment that changed my life, sparking a passion for cooking and a love for sharing delicious meals with those I care about.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my loved ones and a table full of Cheese Rice Balls, I am filled with gratitude for the simple joy that comes from creating something delicious with my own two hands. And I know that as long as I have this recipe in my arsenal, I will always be able to bring a smile to the faces of those I hold dear.