Are you tired of the same old boring rice dishes? Look no further! Rice-A-Roni, a classic comfort food staple, can be elevated to new heights with just a few simple tweaks and creative twists. In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouthwatering Rice-A-Roni recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
From savory and satisfying casseroles to spicy skillets and flavorful bowls, these dishes showcase the versatility of Rice-A-Roni as a base ingredient. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for quick and easy meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to delight.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything from cheesy broccoli casseroles to Thai peanut bowls with tofu. So grab your apron and get ready to shake up your rice game!
Cheesy Broccoli Rice A Roni Casserole
A comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering, this Cheesy Broccoli Rice A Roni Casserole combines the flavors of steamed broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and saucy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Rice A Roni
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
3. Steam broccoli until tender, then set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until combined.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and add shredded cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked Rice A Roni, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Rice A Roni Skillet
Add a kick to your weeknight meal with this easy and flavorful Spicy Jalapeño Rice A Roni Skillet. This one-pot wonder combines the classic comfort food with the spicy warmth of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Rice-A-Roni (any flavor)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and jalapeño; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the Rice-A-Roni and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add the cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
7. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Rice A Roni Delight
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and aromatic twist on classic Rice A Roni!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Rice A Roni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked Rice A Roni to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
5. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Rice A Roni with Grilled Chicken
A bright and flavorful twist on classic chicken and rice, this recipe combines the comfort of creamy rice with the zest of lemon and herbs, paired with juicy grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup mixed herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add rice, olive oil, mixed herbs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
3. Meanwhile, season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve grilled chicken on top of Lemon Herb Rice A Roni.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Rice A Roni Soup
A comforting twist on traditional soup, this Creamy Mushroom Rice A Roni Soup combines the familiar flavors of Rice A Roni with earthy mushrooms and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Rice A Roni
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in cooked Rice A Roni and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer soup for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Style Rice A Roni with Black Beans
Elevate your rice dish game with this easy and delicious recipe that combines the classic flavors of Mexico with the comfort of Rice A Roni. This Mexican Style Rice A Roni with Black Beans is a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 box of Rice A Roni
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin and cooked black beans. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Combine the cooked Rice A Roni with the black bean mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Beef and Rice A Roni Stir Fry
A flavorful and satisfying stir-fry that combines the comfort of beef and rice with the ease of a one-pot meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked Rice A Roni
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked Rice A Roni, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Return the beef to the skillet and stir-fry until combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Rice A Roni Bowl
Elevate your mealtime with this mouthwatering bowl featuring tender pineapple, savory teriyaki chicken, and creamy rice. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup Teriyaki Chicken (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 ripe pineapple ring
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the Teriyaki Chicken in a pan until warmed through.
3. Slice the pineapple ring into wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
5. Combine cooked rice, warmed teriyaki chicken, and pineapple wedges in a bowl.
6. Drizzle the soy-honey-ginger mixture over the top.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh green onions.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Rice A Roni Bake
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional baked rice, this Spinach and Artichoke Rice A Roni Bake is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the classic flavors of spinach and artichoke with the convenience of packaged rice and the ease of a one-dish bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Rice-A-Roni (any flavor)
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed
– 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook Rice-A-Roni according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, spinach, artichoke hearts, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Shrimp Rice A Roni Jambalaya
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional jambalaya with the convenience of boxed rice and the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Rice-A-Roni, original flavor
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice-A-Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, chicken broth, and water. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine cooked Rice-A-Roni with the shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Rice A Roni Risotto
Transform the classic comfort food into a creamy, flavorful risotto with the addition of fresh tomatoes and basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh tomato puree (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
2. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the tomato puree and Parmesan cheese.
5. Remove from heat; stir in the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Rice A Roni with Vegetables
Sweet and Sour Rice A Roni with Vegetables Recipe
This recipe adds a tangy twist to the classic Rice A Roni, incorporating sweet and sour flavors with crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the frozen vegetables and cook until thawed and tender.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, sweet and sour sauce, and salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curry Coconut Rice A Roni Pilaf
Elevate your rice game with this aromatic and savory pilaf, infused with the warmth of curry and the richness of coconut. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Stir in coconut milk and cilantro (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Rice A Roni Casserole
A twist on classic comfort food, this casserole combines the tender flavors of BBQ pulled pork with the creamy goodness of Rice A Roni. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked BBQ pulled pork
– 1 package Rice A Roni
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cooked pulled pork; stir until heated through.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked Rice A Roni, BBQ pulled pork mixture, and diced tomatoes.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Rice A Roni with Feta and Olives
Elevate a classic dish by adding the bright flavors of the Mediterranean! This recipe combines the familiar comfort of Rice A Roni with the salty tang of feta cheese, the brininess of olives, and the warmth of oregano.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Rice A Roni (any flavor)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced olives and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and dried oregano. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine the cooked Rice A Roni with the feta-olive mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional olives and feta if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon Ranch Rice A Roni Casserole
This creamy casserole is a delicious spin on the classic boxed rice dish. With the addition of crispy bacon, tangy ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Rice A Roni (any flavor)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, crumbled bacon, milk, and ranch seasoning. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Rice A Roni with Tofu
This recipe combines the comforting classic, Rice A Roni, with the bold and creamy flavors of Thai peanut sauce and crispy tofu. The result is a delightful twist on a familiar favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Rice A Roni
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– Salt to taste
– Chopped peanuts or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Rice A Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the peanut butter over medium heat until smooth.
3. Add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until combined.
4. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked Rice A Roni with peanut sauce mixture and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Rice A Roni with Sausage
This recipe adds a pop of flavor and color to the classic boxed pasta dish by incorporating roasted red peppers and sweet Italian sausage. The result is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Rice-A-Roni
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add roasted red peppers (see note) and chicken broth to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Cook Rice-A-Roni according to package instructions.
6. Combine cooked sausage mixture with Rice-A-Roni; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Note: To roast red peppers, place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred. Let cool, then peel off skin and chop.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Herbed Rice A Roni with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate a classic comfort food by pairing Herbed Rice A Roni with a medley of roasted vegetables. This easy and flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Herbed Rice A Roni
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook Herbed Rice A Roni according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked rice and roasted vegetables in a serving dish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 19 flavorful Rice A Roni recipes! From comforting casseroles and savory stir-fries to bold bowls and creamy soups, there’s something for every occasion. Try adding some cheesy broccoli to your casserole, or giving a spicy kick to your skillet dish. You can also add some Mediterranean flair with feta and olives, or go global with Thai peanut flavors. With these creative twists on the classic Rice A Roni recipe, you’ll never run out of new ideas for dinner.
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