Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's quick to make and satisfying to eat? Look no further than this delicious homemade Beef Rice A Roni! This recipe takes the classic convenience food and elevates it to a whole new level, bursting with rich beefy flavor and tender vegetables. Forget those boxed mixes; this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and impressing family and friends alike. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't sacrifice taste, making it a true winner in the world of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato soup, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Rice and Water: Stir in the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese (if using). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Beef Rice A Roni:
- For extra flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.
- Make it cheesy: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
- Don't overcook the rice: Follow the cooking time closely to prevent mushy rice.
Variations:
- Chicken Rice A Roni: Substitute ground chicken for ground beef.
- Vegetarian Rice A Roni: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and corn.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
This Beef Rice A Roni recipe is a testament to how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. It’s a perfect example of transforming simple ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful meal, offering a delightful alternative to processed options. It’s a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation, offering a great balance of taste and convenience. Enjoy!