Crispy Mozzarella Balls with Marinara
Golden-fried rice and mozzarella balls that stretch when you bite—the classic Roman supplì al telefono, ready in under 30 minutes. Serve with warm marinara for dipping.
- Total time
- 28 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 620
- Protein
- 18g

Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked risotto or arborio rice, cooled
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into 8 cubes
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
- 3 cups neutral oil for frying
Instructions
- 1
Set up three shallow bowls with flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and panko in the third.
- 2
Form 8 balls using 2 tbsp cooled rice per ball, press one mozzarella cube into the center, then seal.
- 3
Coat each ball in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing gently so breadcrumbs stick.
- 4
Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F; test with a breadcrumb that sizzles immediately.
- 5
Fry balls in batches 2–3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown all over.
- 6
Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with warm marinara for dipping.
Tools you’ll need
- three shallow bowls
- deep pot or Dutch oven
- instant-read thermometer or deep-fry thermometer
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
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