Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 box Rice-A-Roni (any flavor)
- 2 cups water
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Rice-A-Roni to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef and onion mixture.
4. Pour in the water and diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir to combine.
5. Add the salt and black pepper and stir again.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
7. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the Rice-A-Roni is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium-high heat for browning the beef and sautéing the onion and garlic; low heat for simmering the rice.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 390
Total fat: 17g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 1100mg
Total carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies can be used for a spicier version.
- Any flavor of Rice-A-Roni can be used.
Variations:
- Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Top with shredded cheese and chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
- Use leftover cooked rice instead of Rice-A-Roni for a quicker version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to break up the ground beef as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the Rice-A-Roni to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to prevent it from clumping together.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual bowls or on plates, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado.
Pairings:
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, garlic bread, corn on the cob.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the Rice-A-Roni is not cooked through after 25 minutes, add a splash of water and continue to simmer until it is tender.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Rice-A-Roni was invented in 1958 by Vince DeDomenico and his wife, who wanted to create a quick and easy side dish that combined rice and pasta.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is savory and comforting, with a slightly tangy flavor from the diced tomatoes.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
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