Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine! Rice a Roni, that classic comfort food staple, is more than just a box of mix. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s the perfect canvas for endless creative possibilities. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got 20 delicious Rice a Roni recipes to satisfy your cravings.
From seafood-inspired dishes like Garlic Butter Rice a Roni with Shrimp to savory casseroles like Cheesy Broccoli Rice a Roni Casserole, these mouthwatering creations will inspire you to think outside the box (or in this case, the bag!). Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, we’ve got you covered with our collection of innovative and indulgent Rice a Roni recipes.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of Rice a Roni and exploring its endless possibilities. From spicy Mexican flavors to creamy mushroom sauces, each recipe has been carefully crafted to showcase the versatility and flavor of this beloved pantry staple.
So grab your apron, get creative, and let’s start cooking!
Garlic Butter Rice a Roni with Shrimp
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this creamy, savory, and indulgent Garlic Butter Rice a Roni dish, featuring succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice (Roni)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Roni according to package instructions. Drain excess water.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Stir in chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add cooked Roni to the saucepan and toss with the garlic butter mixture.
5. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp with a pinch of salt until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Serve the shrimp on top of the Garlic Butter Rice a Roni. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice a Roni Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of creamy rice, steamed broccoli, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 head broccoli, florets only
– 1 can (10.5 oz) Rice-a-Roni
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
3. In a separate pot, steam broccoli florets until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, Rice-a-Roni, steamed broccoli, and butter. Mix well.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the rice mixture. Top with shredded cheese and milk.
6. Repeat layers, ending with the remaining rice mixture on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mexican Rice a Roni with Black Beans
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful and spicy Mexican-inspired dish, packed with the goodness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Roni’s Spaghetti (or any other short-grain rice)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well, then add the Roni’s Spaghetti. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
3. Fluff the rice with a fork. Add black beans and stir well to combine.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Herb Rice a Roni with Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on the classic rice dish, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and chicken for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add chicken and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked rice with chicken mixture; fluff with a fork to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Rice a Roni
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and savory twist on classic rice a roni! This recipe combines the flavors of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs with a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Beef and Rice a Roni Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender beef and creamy rice with the crunch of peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked rice (Roni)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice (Roni) and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
6. Stuff each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Rice a Roni with Pineapple
Elevate your mealtime with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Rice a Roni dish, infused with the sweetness of pineapple. This flavorful side dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a standalone main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon Teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat the Teriyaki sauce over medium heat until warm and fragrant.
3. Add the Pineapple chunks to the pan and stir to combine with the Teriyaki sauce.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add the sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the warm Teriyaki-Pineapple mixture with the cooked rice, stirring until well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Rice a Roni Bake
Transform your classic macaroni and cheese into a savory, comforting casserole with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, butter, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice a Roni
Transform your leftover rice into a tasty and nutritious meal with this simple Vegetable Fried Rice a Roni recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Add soy sauce to taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun Rice a Roni with Sausage
This hearty one-pot dish combines the classic comfort food of rice and sausage with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Spicy and savory, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Top with cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Parmesan Garlic Rice a Roni with Asparagus
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese, pungency of garlic, and crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Roni’s Mediterranean-Style Pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce.
5. Meanwhile, steam asparagus in a separate pot until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the rice mixture topped with steamed asparagus and garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Rice a Roni
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make, creamy chicken alfredo rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken in butter until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add heavy cream and Alfredo sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Combine cooked rice with chicken mixture, stirring to coat.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Cooking Time:
– Rice cooking time: 18-20 minutes
– Total cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Rice a Roni with Chorizo
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this hearty and aromatic rice dish, infused with spicy chorizo sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Spanish Rice a Roni
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spanish Rice a Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked Spanish Rice a Roni to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chorizo mixture.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Rice a Roni with Salmon
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful dish that combines the comfort of rice with the omega-rich goodness of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Roni Lemon Pepper Flavor Rice
– 6 oz salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Roni Lemon Pepper Flavor Rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the lemon pepper mixture until well combined.
4. Add flaked salmon to the rice mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Rice a Roni with Cranberries and Pecans
Experience the perfect blend of earthy wild rice, savory pasta, and sweet-tart cranberries, all topped with crunchy pecans. This hearty side dish is perfect for fall gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Wild Rice a Roni
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Bring the Wild Rice a Roni and water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Fluff the cooked Wild Rice a Roni with a fork to separate the grains.
5. Add the cranberry mixture and chopped pecans to the rice. Stir until well combined.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Rice a Roni with Shrimp
Discover the perfect blend of creamy coconut and savory shrimp in this easy-to-make Thai-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (Roni)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine coconut milk, curry paste, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Stir in cooked rice and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked shrimp mixture with the coconut rice mixture. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Rice a Roni with Olives and Feta
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful Mediterranean twist, combining the classic Rice a Roni with the bold flavors of olives and feta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Rice a Roni
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the Rice a Roni and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the sliced olives and crumbled feta cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Combine with the olive-feta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
BBQ Ranch Rice a Roni with Pulled Pork
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of pulled pork, tanginess of ranch dressing, and the convenience of rice a roni.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pulled pork
– 1 package Rice a Roni (chicken flavor)
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice a Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and ranch seasoning. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir until coated with the pork mixture.
4. Top with grated cheddar cheese and chopped scallions.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Rice a Roni
Elevate your comfort food game with this spicy and creamy twist on traditional rice-a-roni. This Jalapeño Popper Rice a Roni recipe combines the classic pasta dish with the bold flavors of jalapeños and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 8 ounces macaroni
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1-2 diced jalapeños
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add frozen vegetables, macaroni, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Combine cooked rice with the skillet mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Rice a Roni with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful Pesto Rice a Roni dish, infused with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Rice a Roni
– 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice a Roni according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 delicious Rice-a-Roni recipes, perfect for every occasion! From garlic butter shrimp to beef and rice stuffed peppers, Cajun sausage to Thai coconut shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Discover creative twists on classic dishes, like cheesy broccoli casserole or Mediterranean olives and feta. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for special occasions, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to please.
