Simple Yet Satisfying: Ground Beef and Beef Rice A Roni Recipe for Easy Family Dinners

Photo byAngie Bright

When it comes to weeknight meals, nothing beats a dish that’s hearty, simple to make, and delicious for the whole family. This ground beef and beef rice combination brings together the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and the savory essence of beef Rice-A-Roni. Whether you're whipping it up for a quick dinner or making extra to enjoy for leftovers, this dish hits the spot every time.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients—ground beef, Rice-A-Roni, and beef broth—you can create a meal that’s flavorful, filling, and requires minimal effort. The ground beef is browned to perfection, with the option to add onions and garlic for an extra layer of flavor, while the Rice-A-Roni brings that satisfying mix of rice and vermicelli pasta, enhanced by the rich beef broth. It's a classic comfort food dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Recipe: Ground Beef and Beef Rice A Roni

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 box beef-flavored Rice-A-Roni
• 1 small can (about 14 oz) beef broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups hot water

Instructions:

1. Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. If you like, add chopped onions and minced garlic for extra flavor. Cook until the beef is fully browned, breaking it up into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the box instructions, which typically involves browning the rice and pasta mixture in a bit of butter or oil.
3. Once the Rice-A-Roni is golden brown, add the ground beef back into the skillet. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of hot water and the can of beef broth.
4. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve hot. Enjoy this hearty meal with a side of vegetables or a simple salad.

This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need to get dinner on the table fast, but still want something that feels like a comforting, home-cooked meal. The ground beef adds a robust, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the seasoned rice, creating a dish that’s simple yet satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily add your favorite vegetables like peas or carrots to give it even more substance.

The richness of the beef broth infuses the rice and ground beef with a deep, savory taste, while the Rice-A-Roni provides a satisfying texture with its mix of rice and pasta. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to become a family favorite.

To help with your recipe, I found several variations of ground beef and Rice-A-Roni dishes that align closely with your request. These recipes involve browning the ground beef, often with optional ingredients like onions or garlic, and then combining it with Rice-A-Roni, using water and beef broth for added flavor.

Here are some sources for you to explore:

1. The official Rice-A-Roni website has a similar seasoned beef and rice recipe that combines ground beef, the Rice-A-Roni mix, and water, giving it a rich, savory flavor. It offers the flexibility to add optional vegetables like corn or salsa for a personal twist​ricearoni.com.
2. Just a Pinch features a skillet version of this dish that focuses on browning the Rice-A-Roni and beef together, then simmering it with water for a quick and easy dinner​Just A Pinch Recipes.
3. Shaken Together Life provides a more customizable ground beef and rice skillet recipe where you can modify ingredients like broth or vegetables according to your preferences​Shaken Together.

These sources should help you get the perfect blend of ground beef and Rice-A-Roni for a satisfying, flavorful meal.