Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 box beef Rice-A-Roni
• 1 small can beef broth
• 1 ½ cups hot water
• Optional: leftover steak, chicken, cream of mushroom soup, soy sauce, chow mein noodles, Spanish Rice-A-Roni, Rotel tomatoes, diced tomatoes, extra seasonings, cheese, sour cream

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Brown the Rice: In the same skillet, follow the instructions on the Rice-A-Roni box to brown the rice, using the same skillet to save on cleanup.
3. Combine Ingredients: Once the rice is browned, add the 1 ½ cups of hot water, the can of beef broth, and the browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Serve: Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations and Tips

• Leftovers: If you have leftover steak or chicken, dice it and add it to the dish instead of the ground beef for a delicious twist.
• Creamy Option: Add half a can of cream of mushroom soup and a splash of soy sauce. For this variation, consider putting everything in a crock pot and topping with chow mein noodles for a delightful crunch.
• Spanish Flair: Use Spanish Rice-A-Roni and ground beef. Add a can of Rotel tomatoes and one can of water. Enhance the flavors with extra seasonings to taste. This variation is excellent topped with cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
• Porcupine Meatballs: Mix the rice mixture with ground beef to form meatballs. Brown the meatballs in a skillet, then add the water and let them simmer for about 30 minutes. The rice will stick out from the meatballs, giving them a fun “porcupine” appearance that kids love.
• Tomato Boost: Adding a can of diced tomatoes can elevate the flavor and add a nice touch of acidity to balance the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even leftover steak or chicken.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian? For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based ground meat substitute and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. What can I serve with this dish? This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

This secret beef and rice delight is a wonderful go-to recipe for busy nights. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple in any kitchen. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or try one of the exciting variations, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!