Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini

Name: Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup diced onions; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup diced pimentos; 1 tablespoon hot sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Food | Big Meals

I absolutely love the fusion of Southern flavors and Italian comfort food, which is why I created this Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini recipe. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a creamy filling that bursts with the rich taste of pimento cheese. Each bite feels like a delicious homage to my favorite Southern appetizer, transported into a gourmet experience. It’s perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. Once you try it, I promise these bites will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

The Chefmatttastes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-04T20:35:46.601Z

When I first decided to make arancini, I knew I wanted to make them special. I experimented by incorporating classic Southern pimento cheese, which is one of my guilty pleasures. The results were amazing, and I loved the balance between crispy and creamy. These bites are packed with flavor and have quickly become a favorite at gatherings.

What I found is that letting the filled arancini chill in the fridge before frying really helps them hold their shape. It’s a small step that makes a big difference. The creamy cheese stays perfectly gooey, making every bite a delight!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Deliciously crispy exterior with a creamy, cheesy center.
Unique blend of Southern flavors in every bite.
Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a flavorful snack.

The Perfect Rice Technique

Choosing the right rice is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in your arancini. Arborio rice is the traditional choice because of its high starch content, which creates a creamy consistency when cooked. Be sure to monitor the rice closely as it cooks; overcooking can lead to mushy rice, while undercooking will leave it too firm. The perfect al dente texture is key, so aim for a bite that's tender yet slightly chewy.

After cooking, let the rice cool for at least 30 minutes before handling. This cooling period helps the rice firm up, making it easier to mold into balls without breaking apart. Spread the rice on a baking sheet to accelerate the cooling process. Once cooled, it should hold its shape well, making your arancini uniform and beautifully rounded.

Crafting the Pimento Cheese Filling

The pimento cheese filling is where all the flavor magic happens. For the best results, use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese, as it melts better and provides a rich, savory taste compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese. If you want to make it a bit spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra kick.

When mixing the filling, take the time to blend until smooth and creamy. This helps ensure that the flavors meld beautifully and avoids any lumpy texture. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to create a tangy twist while keeping it creamy.

Frying to Perfection

Frying the arancini is where you’ll achieve that all-important crispy exterior. Preheat your vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C); using a thermometer helps maintain an even temperature, preventing greasy arancini. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, as this can drop the oil's temperature and result in soggy bites. Cook each ball for 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown all around.

After frying, make sure to drain your arancini on paper towels to remove any excess oil. This not only improves texture but also makes them lighter. If you want to serve them later, consider keeping the fried arancini in a warm oven (about 200°F) until you’re ready to enjoy them, ensuring they remain crispy while you finish frying.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Arancini:

1 cup Arborio rice
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup diced onions
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Pimento Cheese Filling:

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup diced pimentos
1 tablespoon hot sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious arancini:

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add Arborio rice and diced onions, reduce heat, and simmer for about 18 minutes until rice is tender. Stir in butter and let it cool.

Make the Pimento Cheese Filling

In a bowl, mix cheddar cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Form the Arancini

Once the rice is cool, take a small handful and flatten it in your palm. Add a bit of pimento cheese filling in the center and mold the rice around it to form a ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used.

Bread and Fry the Arancini

Dredge each ball in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the arancini until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels.

Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like chives or parsley to the cheese mixture. You can also pair these arancini with a spicy marinara sauce for dipping.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the arancini filling and the rice ahead of time, making this recipe great for meal prep. Store the cooked Arborio rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the pimento cheese filling, it’s best to refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop before using.

If you want to make arancini in advance, shape the rice balls and freeze them before frying. Lay the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag; they can be stored for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These Southern Pimento Cheese Arancini are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a dipping sauce can elevate the experience. Try serving them with a zesty marinara or a creamy ranch dressing for a fun twist. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top after frying for added flavor and a pop of color.

For a full meal, consider serving the arancini alongside a refreshing salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the cheese. They also make a fantastic appetizer when entertaining, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort in a bite-sized treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these arancini in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the balls and keep them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying.

→ Can I freeze arancini?

Absolutely! Freeze them before frying. Just fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple more minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with arancini?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.

→ What type of rice is best for arancini?

Arborio rice is best for arancini due to its high starch content, which helps achieve a creamy texture.