Spicy Rice A Roni
Spicy Rice A Roni combines savory rice, seasoned ground beef, and a fiery chili kick, perfect for quick, flavorful family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the Rice-A-Roni package in margarine.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the meat.
- Pour tomatoes and green chilies into a 2-cup measuring cup.
- Add water to the tomatoes and green chilies to make 2 cups total.
- Add the tomato mixture, chili powder, and the spice packet from the Rice-A-Roni to the meat.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a vegetarian option, use black beans in place of meat and vegetable broth instead of water. Browning the Rice-A-Roni well adds a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spicy Rice A Roni with a side of light broccoli salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with deviled ham and cream cheese spread as a delightful appetizer. For a complete meal, consider adding a green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the mixture in a skillet over medium heat and stir until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, in 30-second intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Rice A Roni contains roughly 121 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 525mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef, making the dish lighter. For a vegetarian version, try using mushrooms or a mixture of your favorite beans to maintain the protein content while keeping it meat-free.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
To reduce the spice level, opt for mild diced tomatoes or leave out the chili powder altogether. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt when serving, which can help mellow out the heat without compromising flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook it fully and let it cool before storing it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
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).