Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 box of Rice-A-Roni (6.9 oz)
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup of diced onion
- 1/2 cup of diced green bell pepper
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and green bell pepper in the bacon grease until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Rice-A-Roni to the skillet and stir to coat it with the vegetables and bacon grease. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is lightly toasted.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the ranch dressing and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish the Bacon Ranch Rice-A-Roni with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for cooking bacon and vegetables
- Low heat for simmering the rice
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon
- Red bell pepper can be used instead of green bell pepper
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth
- Greek yogurt can be used instead of ranch dressing for a healthier option
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the Rice-A-Roni for a protein boost
- Use different flavors of Rice-A-Roni, such as garlic herb or Spanish rice
- Add diced tomatoes or corn for extra flavor and texture
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the Rice-A-Roni occasionally while it's toasting to prevent burning
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and burning
- Double the recipe for leftovers or meal prep
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the Bacon Ranch Rice-A-Roni in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Bacon Ranch Rice-A-Roni in individual bowls or on a platter for family-style serving
- Top with additional chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and presentation
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced green onions
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Roasted vegetables
- Caesar salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted sweet potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is still hard after the liquid is absorbed, add a splash of chicken broth or water and continue simmering until it's tender
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon and chicken broth to the appropriate temperature to prevent foodborne illness
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking
Food history:
- Rice-A-Roni was invented in 1958 by Vince DeDomenico and Tom DeDomenico in San Francisco, California. It was inspired by a dish they tasted in Italy called "risotto."
Flavor profiles:
- Salty, savory, creamy, and slightly smoky from the bacon
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Bacon Ranch Rice-A-Roni as a main dish or as a side dish to your favorite protein
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