Air Fried Taco Rice Balls

If you're on the lookout for a new and exciting way to enjoy the beloved flavors of tacos, then Crunchy Taco Rice Balls are the perfect solution. These delightful bites encapsulate the essence of tacos in a fun, portable form, making them an ideal choice for snacks, appetizers, or even a satisfying meal. With their crispy exterior and flavor-packed interior, these rice balls bring a fusion of tastes and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Discover the irresistible Crunchy Taco Rice Balls—perfect for any occasion! This fun twist on traditional tacos combines seasoned meat, fluffy rice, black beans, and vibrant vegetables, all encased in a crispy shell. Ideal for snacks, appetizers, or hearty meals, these flavor-packed bites are sure to impress your guests. Get ready to enjoy a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that encapsulate the essence of your favorite taco in every delicious bite. Perfect for sharing or indulging on your own, these rice balls are a culinary adventure that everyone can appreciate!

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for better texture)

1 cup ground beef or turkey

1 tablespoon taco seasoning

1 cup black beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)

1 cup corn (canned or frozen and thawed)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)

2 large eggs, beaten

Olive oil spray

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Season with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.

Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, taco meat, black beans, corn, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Form the Balls: Using your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and form it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is formed into balls, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Prepare for Coating: In one shallow dish, place the beaten eggs. In another dish, add the breadcrumbs. Dip each rice ball first into the beaten eggs, then coat them evenly with breadcrumbs. Place them back on the baking sheet.

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 spray to prevent sticking. Place the rice balls in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the rice balls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6