16 Delicious Rice a Roni Recipes for Every Occasion

Sometimes, the simplest ingredients can transform into the most memorable meals, and that’s exactly what happens with Rice a Roni. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving some comfort food, we’ve got 16 delicious recipes that will make this pantry staple the star of your table. Keep reading to discover how versatile and tasty Rice a Roni can be!

Cheesy Broccoli Rice a Roni Casserole

Sometimes you just need a cozy, comforting dish that’s easy to whip up. This cheesy broccoli rice a roni casserole is your answer, blending familiar flavors into one irresistible bake.

Ingredients

• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Broccoli florets – 2 cups
• Cheddar cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded
• Milk – 1 ½ cups
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Water – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the Rice a Roni pasta-vermicelli mix until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in water, milk, and the seasoning packet from the Rice a Roni. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Velvety cheese coats every bite, with the broccoli adding a fresh crunch. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken for a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Garlic Parmesan Rice a Roni

Sometimes, you just need a quick, comforting side dish that feels a bit fancy without the fuss. This Garlic Parmesan Rice a Roni is your go-to for those nights.

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Vermicelli – ½ cup
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, grated
• Parsley – 1 tbsp, chopped

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add rice and vermicelli to the skillet. Toast until golden, about 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Remove from heat. Let sit covered for 5 minutes to absorb all the liquid.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley until well combined.

Out of the skillet, this dish boasts a creamy texture with a nutty crunch from the toasted vermicelli. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or stir in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.

Spicy Jalapeno Rice a Roni

Just when you thought Rice a Roni couldn’t get any better, here comes a spicy twist that’ll knock your socks off. You’re gonna love this Spicy Jalapeno Rice a Roni—it’s the perfect blend of comfort and kick.

Ingredients

• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Jalapeno – 1, diced
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Water – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced jalapeno to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes, until slightly softened.
3. Stir in the Rice a Roni and cook for 1 minute, toasting the rice and pasta lightly.
4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to peek—keeping the lid on ensures the rice cooks evenly.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Tip: This resting time allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and become fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

What you’ll get is a dish with a creamy texture, a slight crunch from the jalapeno, and a heat that builds with every bite. Try topping it with a dollop of sour cream to balance the spice, or serve it alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Creamy Mushroom Rice a Roni

Kick off your weeknight dinner with this creamy mushroom Rice a Roni that’s as comforting as it is easy to whip up. You’ll love how the earthy mushrooms blend with the creamy rice for a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Ingredients

• Butter – 2 tbsp
• White mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Water – 2 cups
• Heavy cream – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and tender.
3. Stir in the Rice a Roni (including the seasoning packet) and cook for 1 minute to toast the rice lightly.
4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling over.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. The rice should be tender and the liquid mostly absorbed.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes, uncovered, to thicken the sauce. Tip: For extra creaminess, you can add a splash more cream if you like.
7. Remove from heat and let it sit for 2 minutes before serving. Tip: This rest time helps the sauce set to the perfect consistency.

Just like that, you’ve got a dish with a velvety texture and rich, savory flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Try topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for an extra touch of elegance.

Savory Beef and Rice a Roni Skillet

Feeling like whipping up something hearty without spending all day in the kitchen? This savory beef and Rice a Roni skillet is your go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• Ground beef – 1 lb
• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Water – 2 cups
• Butter – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
2. Drain the excess fat from the skillet, then push the beef to one side. Add the butter to the empty side and let it melt.
3. Stir in the Rice a Roni, coating it with the butter. Cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the rice and pasta.
4. Pour in the water, then bring the mixture to a boil. Tip: Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits for extra flavor.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to peek; keeping the lid on ensures the rice cooks evenly.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and become fluffy.

Serve this skillet meal as is for a comforting dinner, or top it with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for an extra indulgent twist. The beef adds a rich depth, while the Rice a Roni brings a delightful texture that’s both tender and slightly chewy.

Chicken Alfredo Rice a Roni

Alright, you’re in for a treat with this Chicken Alfredo Rice a Roni. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty chicken, all packed into one comforting dish.

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Chicken breast – 1 lb, diced
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Chicken broth – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
2. Once the butter is melted, add the diced chicken breast. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until no longer pink.
3. Add the rice to the skillet with the chicken. Stir to coat the rice in butter and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Tip: Don’t stir the rice too much to avoid it becoming sticky.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Cook for another 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Tip: For extra creaminess, add a splash more heavy cream.
7. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Tip: The sauce will continue to thicken as it sits.

Now, this Chicken Alfredo Rice a Roni is all about that creamy texture and rich flavor. Serve it up with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top or alongside a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Vegetable Medley Rice a Roni

Unbelievably easy and packed with flavor, this Vegetable Medley Rice a Roni is your weeknight dinner hero. You’ll love how the veggies and rice come together in a dish that’s both comforting and quick to whip up.

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn) – 1 cup
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Pepper – ¼ tsp

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until it’s lightly toasted. Tip: Toasting the rice adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Tip: Resist the urge to peek under the lid; keeping it covered ensures even cooking.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Tip: This resting period allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Out of the skillet, this Vegetable Medley Rice a Roni boasts a delightful mix of textures—tender rice with crisp-tender veggies. Serve it as a hearty side or jazz it up with some grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Spanish Style Rice a Roni with Saffron

Ever find yourself craving something cozy yet a bit fancy? This Spanish Style Rice a Roni with Saffron is your answer—simple, flavorful, and just the right amount of special.

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Vermicelli – ½ cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Saffron – ¼ tsp
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add vermicelli to the skillet. Toast, stirring constantly, until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
3. Stir in rice and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle saffron. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to peek; keeping the lid on ensures perfect steam.
6. Remove from heat. Let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Tip: This rest period lets the rice absorb any remaining liquid.
7. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Fluffy and aromatic, this dish boasts a golden hue and subtle saffron flavor. Try topping with a fried egg for a hearty twist.

Lemon Herb Rice a Roni with Shrimp

Just when you thought your weeknight dinners couldn’t get any easier, this Lemon Herb Rice a Roni with Shrimp comes along to save the day. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s packed with flavor and ready in no time.

Ingredients

• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Water – 2 cups
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
• Dried herbs – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly.
2. Add the Rice a Roni to the skillet, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to toast the pasta.
3. Pour in the water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
4. While the rice cooks, season the shrimp with lemon juice and dried herbs.
5. After the rice is done, push it to one side of the skillet and add the shrimp to the other side. Cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping once, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Mix the shrimp into the rice, squeeze a little more lemon juice over the top, and serve immediately.

Bright and zesty, this dish has a perfect balance of creamy rice and succulent shrimp. Try serving it with a side of steamed veggies or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Thai Coconut Rice a Roni

Did you ever think you could whip up something as comforting as Thai Coconut Rice a Roni at home? Well, you can, and it’s easier than you might imagine.

Ingredients

• Jasmine rice – 1 cup
• Coconut milk – 1 can (13.5 oz)
• Water – 1 cup
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the jasmine rice to the saucepan. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and water, then add the salt. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Simmer for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time to ensure perfect steam.
6. After 18 minutes, turn off the heat. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Just like that, you’ve got a creamy, dreamy bowl of Thai Coconut Rice a Roni. The texture is luxuriously soft with a hint of chewiness, and the flavor is subtly sweet from the coconut milk. Try topping it with some crispy fried shallots for an extra crunch.

BBQ Chicken Rice a Roni Bake

Wow, you’re going to love this BBQ Chicken Rice a Roni Bake—it’s the perfect mix of smoky, sweet, and savory, all baked into one comforting dish.

Ingredients

• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Chicken breast – 1 lb, diced
• BBQ sauce – 1 cup
• Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced chicken over medium heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Rice a Roni and water to the skillet with the chicken, stirring to combine. Tip: For extra flavor, use chicken broth instead of water.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
5. Stir in ½ cup of BBQ sauce, then transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
6. Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Tip: For a golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
7. Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Tip: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh contrast.

Unbelievably easy and packed with flavor, this bake has a creamy texture with a slightly crispy cheese topping. Serve it with a side of coleslaw or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Mexican Rice a Roni with Black Beans

Vibrant and flavorful, this Mexican Rice a Roni with Black Beans is your ticket to a quick, satisfying meal. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Black beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Cumin – 1 tsp
• Garlic powder – ½ tsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for 1 minute.
2. Add rice to the skillet, stirring constantly for 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Mix in tomato paste, cumin, and garlic powder, stirring for 30 seconds to blend the flavors.
4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. After 20 minutes, remove the lid and gently fold in the black beans. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.

Delightfully fluffy with a hint of smokiness from the cumin, this dish pairs perfectly with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Pesto Rice a Roni with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Kick off your weeknight dinner with this twist on a classic that’s as easy as it is flavorful. You’ll love how the sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy pop to the creamy pesto rice.

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Pesto – ¼ cup
• Sun-dried tomatoes – ½ cup, chopped
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly for even toasting.
4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover and simmer for 18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat, stir in pesto and sun-dried tomatoes until well combined.
7. Let sit covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Aromatic and vibrant, this dish boasts a creamy texture with bursts of flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fold it into a wrap for a quick lunch.

Curried Rice a Roni with Peas and Carrots

Wondering what to whip up for a quick, flavorful side dish? You’ve got to try this Curried Rice a Roni with Peas and Carrots—it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Water – 2 cups
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Curry powder – 1 tsp
• Peas – ½ cup
• Carrots – ½ cup, diced

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Rice a Roni and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Tip: Keep an eye on it to avoid boiling over.
4. Stir in the curry powder, peas, and carrots. Reduce heat to low.
5. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to peek—it lets the steam escape.
6. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Tip: This step is key for fluffy rice.
7. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Absolutely bursting with flavor, this dish has a delightful mix of textures—tender rice, crisp veggies, and a hint of spice. Try topping it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt for an extra twist.

Bacon and Cheddar Rice a Roni

Wow, you’re going to love this twist on a classic. Bacon and Cheddar Rice a Roni is the ultimate comfort food with a cheesy, smoky kick that’s surprisingly easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• Rice a Roni – 1 box
• Bacon – 4 slices
• Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
• Water – 2 cups
• Butter – 2 tbsp

Instructions

1. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Tip: Save the bacon grease for extra flavor in other dishes.
3. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 1 tbsp of grease in the skillet.
4. Add the Rice a Roni and butter to the skillet, stirring to coat the rice with the bacon grease and butter.
5. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling over.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon until the cheese is melted. Tip: For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk with the cheese.

Hearty and satisfying, this dish boasts a perfect blend of creamy cheese and crispy bacon. Try serving it alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Sweet and Sour Rice a Roni with Pineapple

Remember those busy weeknights when you crave something both comforting and a bit adventurous? This dish is your ticket to a quick, flavorful escape without leaving your kitchen.

Ingredients

• Rice – 1 cup
• Vermicelli – ½ cup
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Pineapple chunks – 1 cup
• White vinegar – 2 tbsp
• Brown sugar – ¼ cup
• Soy sauce – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add rice and vermicelli to the skillet. Stir constantly until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth carefully, as it may splatter. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to stir, preventing the rice from sticking.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. While the rice cooks, mix pineapple chunks, vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce in a bowl. Tip: For a smoother sauce, blend the pineapple before adding.
6. After 15 minutes, uncover the skillet and stir in the pineapple mixture. Cook for another 5 minutes, uncovered. Tip: If the rice seems dry, add a splash of broth or water.
7. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes before serving.

Out of the skillet comes a dish with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with pineapple adding a juicy burst in every bite. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Conclusion

Lovingly curated, this roundup of 16 Delicious Rice a Roni Recipes offers something for every occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. We hope these dishes inspire your next meal. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin the ones you love on Pinterest. Happy cooking!