Pork Chops With Rice-A-Roni
Savory pork chops paired with flavorful Rice-A-Roni and mushrooms create a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the pork chops until browned, then add boiling water to the skillet.
- Add the Rice-A-Roni box, the included sauce packet, canned mushrooms, and tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Stir everything together as well as you can.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider marinating the pork chops in a mix of your favorite herbs and spices before frying. If you're out of mushrooms, you can substitute with fresh or canned peas for added texture. To enhance the dish, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the simmering mixture for an umami boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops over a bed of the Rice-A-Roni mixture for a hearty meal. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, such as Broccoli, Bacon And Mushroom Salad, to balance the richness. A slice of crusty bread can also be a nice addition for soaking up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops With Rice-A-Roni contains roughly 190 calories, with 14g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (158% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well in this recipe. They will cook more quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Adjust the frying time based on the thickness of the chops, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
What can I use instead of Rice-A-Roni?
If you don't have Rice-A-Roni, you can make a similar dish using plain rice. Cook the rice separately and mix in some broth, sautéed onions, and seasonings to mimic the flavor profile. Quinoa or couscous can also be good alternatives for a different texture.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using lean pork chops and adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to the Rice-A-Roni mixture. You can also reduce the amount of sauce used or opt for low-sodium versions to cut down on sodium intake.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).