Kittencal's Ground Beef and Feta Rice Balls

• ground beef (or use spicy or mild Italian sausages with casings removed)1⁄2 lb
• small onion↗1

  finely chopped

• large garlic cloves↗4

  finely chopped (garlic-lovers use more)

• cooked rice↗3 cups

  firmly packed when measuring

• eggs↗2

  beaten

• melted butter1⁄3 cup
• fresh grated parmesan cheese2⁄3 cup
• cayenne pepper↗1 pinch

  (optional)

• dried parsley↗2 tablespoons

  (can use 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley)

• coarsely crumbled feta cheese1⁄3 cup

  (can use more)

• garlic powder↗1⁄2 - 1 teaspoon

  (optional add in for more garlic flavor)

• salt & freshly ground black pepper
• egg↗1

  (may need another egg)

• dry breadcrumbs↗1 cup
• oil

  for deep-frying

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a skillet cook the ground beef with onion and garlic until browned; drain fat then transfer to a large bowl, cool slightly.

2. 2

   Add in the rice with the next 6 ingredients; using hands mix to combine, then season with salt and pepper and some garlic powder if desired for more garlic flavor.

3. 3

   Chill the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight.

4. 4

   Shape into about 1-1/2-inch balls.

5. 5

   In a small bowl lightly beat the remaining egg.

6. 6

   Place the dry breadcrumbs into another bowl.

7. 7

   Dip each rice ball into the egg then coat in the breadcrumb mixture (I would suggest to coat all the balls and place on a plate before starting to fry them).

8. 8

   When you have all the balls on the plate flatten down slightly with the palm of your hand this will allow for a quicker and more even browning.

9. 9

   Heat oil in a skillet or a deep-fryer to 375 degrees.

10. 10

    Fry the balls until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).

11. 11

    Serve with hot marinara sauce.