Rice-A-Roni
Rice-A-Roni is a flavorful and hearty dish combining rice, spaghetti, ground beef, and savory broth. Its comforting taste and versatile appeal make it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet. Drain excess fat and remove from skillet.
- Melt margarine in the skillet and brown broken spaghetti until golden.
- Add cooked beef, onion, rice, and broth to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice and spaghetti are fully cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers when browning the beef and onion. If you want to make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You could also use whole grain pasta instead of spaghetti for a healthier twist. To enhance the dish, add some Italian seasoning or a splash of soy sauce for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Rice-A-Roni dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the savory broth. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside a slice of Double Cheese Hamburger Pie for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet to prevent drying out, and heat over low-medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice-A-Roni contains roughly 984 calories, with 13g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives to beef, providing a lighter flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using a plant-based ground meat substitute or cooked lentils, which will still provide a satisfying texture.
How do I know when the rice and spaghetti are fully cooked?
You can check for doneness by tasting a small spoonful of the mixture. The rice should be tender and the spaghetti should be al dente. If either is still firm, cover and simmer for a few more minutes, adding a little extra broth if needed.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time! Prepare it according to the recipe, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat as directed for a quick and satisfying meal.
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).