Quick and Easy Method for Making Boxed Rice A Roni in an Instant Pot!
Hi! If you’ve been following me for long you’ll already know this, but for those who are new, welcome to Far From The Farm. I’m Mona, the Brit behind the recipes, learning life and food in the States while sharing our debt-free journey and what’s on the menu in our home today!
Since moving from the UK, I’ve really come to appreciate the convenience foods that are so popular here in the States. I’ll be honest, boxed sides weren’t something I used to reach for much back home, but now? They’ve become a bit of a lifesaver.
Between base life, our debt-free goals, and adjusting to a new country, there are days when cooking from scratch just isn’t happening.
That’s when a pantry staple like Rice A Roni swoops in to save the day. The Beef flavor in particular has become a favorite in our house because it’s hearty, budget-friendly, and goes with just about everything.
The only problem? The stovetop instructions on the box always had me babysitting the pot, stirring constantly, and trying to make sure nothing burned. It felt like way too much work for something that’s supposed to be “quick and easy.”
So, after a few trials (and a couple of mushy batches), I found the perfect way to cook Rice A Roni in the Instant Pot. It’s faster, more reliable, and doesn’t need constant attention. I’m using my Instant Pot Pro for this, but any pressure cooker with a Sauté function will work.
I love that the Instant Pot Pro doubles as a slow cooker and even has stovetop-safe handles. I can brown meat, simmer, and pressure cook all in one pot.
It’s one of those investments that’s saved us countless evenings of chaos and takeout! And every penny counts if you’re on a debt free journey like our family!
And just a reminder that if you’re struggling and you need help with managing your budget or starting your own debt free journey then here’s some FREE resources below you may find helpful!
living frugally and fully
free tips and resources to make the most of what you have
This version gives you fluffy, flavorful rice that tastes just as good (if not better) than the stovetop kind, without the mess or stress.
And because each Rice A Roni flavor cooks slightly differently, this is the first in a whole new series I’ll be sharing of easy boxed convenience foods done right in the Instant Pot. So keep an eye out for those coming soon!
As always, these photos are from my real kitchen here in our sweet military base home. No staged lighting or spotless marble counters. Just real life and real food made in a small space. Proof that you can feed your family well without needing a dream kitchen or fancy tools!
So roll up your sleeves and head into the kitchen with me, this simple side dish might just become your favorite new go-to convenience side too!
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or another pressure cooker with Sauté mode)
- Measuring jug
- Knife
- Spatula
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
Ingredients
Serves 4 to 6
- 2 boxes (6.8 oz each) Beef Rice A Roni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 cups water
- 1 beef stock cube (optional, for a stronger flavor)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1. Turn on your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and melt the butter in the insert.
Step 2. Add in both boxes of dry Rice A Roni. Stir and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the rice just starts to turn golden brown. Keep stirring so it doesn’t stick.
Step 3. Cancel Sauté mode. Add in 3 cups of water, the seasonings from the boxes of Rice-A-Roni, and the beef stock cube if you’re using one.
Step 4. Stir gently, making sure no rice is stuck to the bottom or sides of the pot.
Step 5. Secure the lid and set the valve to SEAL, not VENT.
Step 6. Cook on HIGH pressure for 5 minutes.
Step 7. When the cook time is done, do a QUICK release by carefully turning the valve to VENT.
Step 8. Once the steam is fully released, remove the lid and give the rice a good stir.
Step 9. Cover the pot loosely and let the rice sit for 5 minutes to absorb the remaining liquid if you prefer your Rice-A-Roni a little less moist.
Step 10. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.
Notes and Troubleshooting
Notes:
- You can easily halve this recipe for one box, just reduce the water to 1 & ½ cups and butter to 2 tbsp.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for a richer flavor.
- For a complete meal, stir in leftover beef, veggies, or even mushrooms at the end.
Troubleshooting:
- If the rice comes out slightly sticky, it likely needed a little less water. Some brands vary slightly in absorbency.
- If it’s too firm, add 2 tablespoons of hot water, close the lid, and rest for another 3 minutes on Keep Warm mode.
- Always double-check that you’ve deglazed the bottom of the pot before sealing, as leftover bits can trigger a burn notice.
Storage
- Cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on Sauté mode with a splash of water to rehydrate.
Serving Ideas
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for an easy dinner.
- Use as a filling base under baked meatballs or smothered beef tips.
- Top with a spoonful of sour cream or sprinkle with chopped green onions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?!
- Quick weeknight side dish that’s hands-free
- Perfect texture every time, no constant stirring
- Saves time and money using pantry staples
- Works with any Instant Pot model
- Great for meal prep or pairing with freezer meals
FAQ
Can I make this with other Rice A Roni flavors?
Yes! The general timing works for most, but liquid amounts can vary slightly. I’ll be sharing flavor-specific Instant Pot versions soon, so check HERE for all my Rice A Roni recipes!
Can I use chicken broth instead of water?
Absolutely, it adds even more flavor!
Can I double the recipe?
You can, but don’t fill your pot past the halfway mark. Keep the same cook time; it will just take longer to come to pressure.
Can I use the sauté setting to brown ground beef first?
Yes! That’s a great way to make it a one-pot meal. I also have a skillet version using Rice A Roni – check out my Frugal Beef Dirty Rice Recipe HERE!
Make This Recipe With Me!
Sometimes it’s just easier to watch a video than read a recipe card isn’t it?! So here’s a quick tutorial on how to make this simple and delicious recipe at home and on a budget – thank you for joining me in the kitchen today!
How to Cook Beef Rice A Roni in an Instant Pot!
November 25, 2025Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Turn on your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and melt the butter in the insert.
- Add in both boxes of dry Rice A Roni. Stir and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the rice just starts to turn golden brown. Keep stirring so it doesn’t stick.
- Cancel Sauté mode. Add in 3 cups of water, the seasoning packets from the Rice-A-Roni boxes, and the beef stock cube if you’re using one.
- Stir gently, making sure no rice is stuck to the bottom or sides of the pot.
- Secure the lid and set the valve to SEAL, not VENT.
- Cook on HIGH pressure for 5 minutes.
- When the cook time is done, do a QUICK release by carefully turning the valve to VENT.
- Once the steam is fully released, remove the lid and give the rice a good stir.
- Cover the pot loosely and let the rice sit for 5 minutes to absorb the remaining liquid if you prefer your Rice-A-Roni a little less moist.
- Fluff with a fork and serve warm.
Video
Notes
- You can easily halve this recipe for one box, just reduce the water to 1½ cups and butter to 2 tbsp.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for a richer flavor.
- For a complete meal, stir in leftover beef, veggies, or even mushrooms at the end.
Related Recipes:
Check out ALL our Rice A Roni Recipes HERE! Check out ALL our Instant Pot Recipes HERE!Storage
- Cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on Sauté mode with a splash of water to rehydrate.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
The Takeaway
Making Beef Rice A Roni in the Instant Pot is a total game changer.
It’s quick, easy, and gives you perfectly cooked rice every time. No stirring, no burnt pans, and way less stress. Just a cozy, budget-friendly side that tastes like comfort!
What to Try Next?!
Share & Rate This Recipe!
Tried this Instant Pot method for your family dinner tonight? Share it with a busy friend and leave a rating so others can find it too!
Last update on 2026-02-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
