Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini

Name: Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked risotto (preferably chilled); 1 cup pimento cheese; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: World Food | New Tastes

I absolutely love experimenting with bold flavors in my cooking, and this Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini is one of my latest favorites. The perfect blend of creamy, tangy pimento cheese encased in crispy risotto creates a delightful bite that I can't resist. These arancini are a fun twist on the traditional Italian dish, and they turn an ordinary snack into something special. Whether I'm serving them at a gathering or indulging during a cozy night in, I always get rave reviews from friends and family alike.

Created by

The Chefhenryskitchen Team

Last updated on 2026-03-04T17:17:47.411Z

When I first attempted making arancini, I was amazed at how easily these delicious bites came together. The trick is to use cold, leftover risotto, which helps the arancini hold their shape while frying. I also love adding pimento cheese for a Southern twist that adds both creaminess and a zing of flavor!

The first time I served these, they disappeared within minutes. I recommend making a double batch because everyone will want more! Pair them with a spicy dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own—the flavor is simply irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy pimento cheese in each crunchy bite
Perfect southern twist on a classic Italian dish
Great for parties, gatherings, or as a comforting snack

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:

For the Arancini:

2 cups cooked risotto (preferably chilled)
1 cup pimento cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dipping Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure you have all these ingredients fresh and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini:

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled risotto with pimento cheese. Mix well until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Form the Arancini

Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a ball. Repeat until all the risotto mixture is used.

Coat the Arancini

Set up a breading station by placing flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Coat each risotto ball in flour, then dip in egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs.

Fry the Arancini

In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the arancini in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, and lemon juice until well combined. Adjust seasoning to your preference.

Enjoy your homemade Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini with the spicy dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or green onions to the risotto mixture. Also, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying
this ensures a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover risotto?

Absolutely! Cold leftover risotto is perfect for making arancini.

→ What if I can't find pimento cheese?

You can make your own pimento cheese by mixing cream cheese, shredded cheddar, pimentos, and your favorite spices.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown for a lighter version.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store leftover arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.