Cheesy Rice and Sausage Fritters: A Crispy, Savory Appetizer Everyone Will Love
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor? These Cheesy Rice and Sausage Fritters combine cooked white rice, smoky sausage, and gooey mozzarella for the ultimate party snack. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re ideal for gatherings, game nights, or simply when you want to impress guests with something deliciously different.
🧾 Ingredients
- 2 skinless smoked sausages (like Calabrese or spicy sausage)
- 3 cups (cooked) white rice
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 50g (about ½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1½ cups (about 180g) all-purpose flour (adjust as needed)
- 250g (about 9 oz) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sausage Mixture
Using a food processor, pulse the sausages until finely chopped (do not over-blend into a paste).
2. Combine the Base Ingredients
Transfer the sausage to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked rice, beaten egg, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, and baking powder.
3. Add the Flour Gradually
Incorporate the flour gradually, mixing until a moldable dough forms. The texture should allow you to shape the mixture without it sticking too much to your hands.
4. Shape and Fill the Fritters
Take small portions of the mixture, roll into balls, and flatten slightly in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and mold the mixture around it to seal.
5. Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 180°C (350°F). Fry the balls in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
- A spicy garlic dipping sauce
- Homemade tomato salsa
- Creamy ranch or aioli
They also pair perfectly with cold beer or sparkling beverages for a relaxed get-together.
🔥 Tips for the Perfect Fritters
- Make sure the rice is fully cooled before using to avoid excess moisture.
- You can substitute sausage for shredded chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Freeze pre-formed fritters (before frying) for quick appetizers on busy days.
🌟 Why This Recipe Works
✅ Uses common leftovers like rice
✅ Melty cheese center surprises every bite
✅ Great for batch cooking or party prepping
✅ Delivers bold flavors with minimal ingredients
📌 Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Rice and Sausage Fritters are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Crispy on the outside, rich and cheesy inside, they’re everything you could want in a savory snack. Whether you’re cooking for friends or treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe delivers irresistible results every time.
