EASY CHEESY BACON RICE FRITTERS

Steps:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, bring the rice and 2 1/2 cups water to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the rice is still firm, but cooked through and the water has evaporated, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool slightly. This is about 3 cups cooked rice.
• In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, add the bacon to the rice, reserving the skillet with the bacon greast. Stir the mozarella, parmesan, and egg into the rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
• Divide the rice mixture into 12 mounds on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten into 3-inch patties. Sprinkle on both sides with the breadcrumbs. Panko crumbs work well here also.
• Add the olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook, turning once, until crisp, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
• Optional. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook over high heat, turning until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with the crushed red pepper. Top with the fritters.