Air Fried Taco Rice Balls

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes bring as much joy and versatility as tacos. These iconic culinary creations are beloved for their bold flavors and customizable nature, making them a staple in households across the globe. But what if you could take that cherished taco experience and transform it into something even more exciting? Imagine crispy, bite-sized delights that encapsulate all the goodness of tacos, but with a twist. Enter Crispy Air Fried Taco Rice Balls—a creative and healthier approach to traditional tacos, perfect for snacking, appetizers, or a fun meal on the go.

Discover the delicious world of Crispy Air Fried Taco Rice Balls, a fun and healthier twist on traditional tacos. These bite-sized delights are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether as snacks, appetizers, or a quick meal. With customizable ingredients, you can cater to various dietary preferences and use leftovers creatively. Learn how to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful, making every bite satisfying and bursting with taco goodness. Try these at your next gathering and watch them disappear!

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey (seasoned with taco seasoning)

1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup corn (frozen or canned)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

1 egg, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)

Olive oil spray

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: salsa and sour cream for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, seasoned ground meat, black beans, corn, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Form the Balls: With your hands, take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball (or slightly larger). Place the formed rice balls on a plate and repeat until all the mixture is used.

Coat the Rice Balls: In a shallow dish, place the beaten egg. In another dish, add the breadcrumbs. Dip each rice ball into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Make sure each ball is well-coated for that crispy texture.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Air Fry the Rice Balls: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the rice balls in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each ball for even cooking. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil.

Cook: Air fry the rice balls for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Serve: Once cooked, remove the rice balls from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve warm with salsa and sour cream on the side for dipping.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings