Recipe Ideas

Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni

What is a comfort food recipe? Remember those nights when mom would whip up rice-a-roni, and the whole house would smell? Is this gluten-free? For years, I thought those cozy memories were off-limits because of my gluten intolerance. I decided, “Enough is enough!” I was determined to recreate that creamy, savory goodness without gluten. And guess what? Is Rice-a-Roni gluten free? Is it as easy as the boxed version? What is the best mac and cheese in the rice world?

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is gluten free rice a Roni?

What is gluten-free rice a Roni? Well, think of it as a savory rice pilaf that’s been amped up with toasted pasta (gluten-free, of course). ), rich broth, and a creamy sauce that coats every single grain. What is the perfect one-pot wonder that combines the comforting textures of pasta and rice with a modern twist? What is the taste of umami? The name is a playful nod to the original, but honestly, this homemade version is in one league of its own. What is rice? What are the benefits of toasting rice and pasta? What is the creamy sauce?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to eat rice a Roni? First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. What are some of the best savory, creamy, and oh-s The toasted rice and gluten-free pasta bring a depth of flavor that you just can’t get from the pasta. Is it surprisingly simple to make? What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need quick and delicious meals? I’ve streamlined the process so even a beginner cooks can nail it. What I love about this recipe is its cost-efficiency. Rice and gluten-free pasta are pantry staples, and the other ingredients are super affordable. Is it incredibly versatile? What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled chicken or fish? I sometimes toss in some cooked broccoli or peas for a complete meal. If you love chicken noodle soup, you’re going to love risotto. What is the best gluten-free recipe for rice a Roni?

How do I make gluten-free rice a Roni?

Quick Overview

How do I make gluten-free rice a Roni? How do you toast rice and gluten-free pasta in butter, then simmer it in a pot. What is the best broth for rice? How do you make it super decadent? What is the key to toasting rice and pasta? It really brings out the nutty flavor and adds a wonderful depth to the dish. Will you ever go back to the box again?

Ingredients

For the Base:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil * 2 tablespoons butter * 3 cups long grain white rice * 4 cups gluten-free. * One cup brown rice. I like the orzo pasta brand! ) * 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best so you can control the salt) * 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder * 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color and a hint of flavor) * Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Creamy Finish:
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version) * 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) (optional, but highly recommended!

Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

How do I follow

Step 1: Toast It Up

In a Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil. Set aside. Add rice and gluten-free orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is cooked through. What is the color of a plant Is it safe to burn a banana? I always toast them, not char them. I do this step on medium-low heat. I’ve burned rice way too many times rushing this step.

Step 2: Broth Time!

In a large bowl, whisk together the onion powder, garlic powder and turmeric. Add the chicken broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. When the rice and pasta are tender and the liquid is absorbed, cook until browned. Make sure to keep the lid on tight so the steam cooks the rice and pasta evenly. What is the best way to get a cigarette to burn?

Step 3: Creamify

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or half and half) and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cream and cheese are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken up even more. What is the magic step where it all comes together? What really elevates this **Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni** to the next level?

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve immediately and enjoy! Garnish with fresh parsley or a little extra Parmesan cheese. What are some good side dishes to serve with your favorite protein? My family loves it with grilled chicken or salmon.

What is the best way to serve it with?

What are some of the best gluten-free recipes for rice a Roni? I love serving it as a side dish with so many different things.

What’s a good weeknight dinner?What are some ways to serve grilled chicken or baked salmon? What is a good side salad? I often marinate my chicken in lemon-herb vinaigrette. It’s so quick and easy!

What is the best way to throw a fancy dinner party?Serve with roasted lamb or beef tenderloin for an elegant touch. A glass of Chardonnay pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the **Gluten-Free Rice a Roni**.

For a Comfort Food Feast:Embrace the cozy vibes and serve it with some slow-cooked pot roast or meatloaf. What are some great side dishes to serve with steamed green beans or carrots?

For lunch the next day: What is the best way to eatWhat are leftovers? I often pack it in my kids’ lunchboxes, or enjoy it myself for a quick and easy meal at my desk. Is it as good cold as microwave?

My mom used to serve rice-a-roni with pork chops, so that’s a pairing that always works. What brings back happy memories for me. Is it funny how food can do that?

How do I make gluten-free rice a Roni?

I’ve made this **Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni** *a lot*, so I have picked up a few tricks along the way. How do I make my life perfect?

Don’t skip the toasting:Is this the most important step? How do you toast rice and pasta? Don’t rush it, and keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

What is the best quality bronchos?The broth is the foundation of flavor, so use the best quality you can find. Low-sodium broth is best so you can control the salt level. I often use homemade chicken broth, but store-bought is fine too.

Don’t overcook rice! Keep an eye on the rice as it simmers, and don’t overcook it. You want it to be tender, but not mushy. If the liquid is absorbed before the rice is cooked through, add a little more broth.

Adjust the Creaminess to your liking:I like my **Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni** super creamy, so I use heavy cream. Is it safe to use half-and-half for a lighter version? Is it true that the sauce will not be as thick and rich?

What are some good ways to add someCan you add some cooked veggies to the rice? What are some good substitutes for peas, broccoli, carrots or mushrooms? I usually add them in during the last few minutes of cooking, so they don’t get overcooked.

Experiment with Flavors:Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors! Add some sauteed onions or garlic to the rice as it toasts, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a little heat. Is it possible to use different herbs to customize the flavor of a dish? I accidentally added a splash of white wine to the broth, and it turned out amazing! Don’t be afraid to be creative!

What are the Storing and Reheating Tips?

Can you make a big batch of Rice-a-Roni next day?

Room Temperature: RoomI don’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: How Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the **Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni** for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave it for a minute or two, or heat it in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture. I actually think it tastes even better reheated!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can, but the cooking time will be longer. Brown rice typically takes about 45-50 minutes to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the simmering time accordingly. You may also need to add more broth, as brown rice absorbs more liquid than white rice. The texture will also be slightly different – brown rice is chewier than white rice.
What kind of gluten-free pasta should I use?
I prefer to use gluten-free orzo pasta, as it’s similar in size and shape to the rice. However, you can use any small gluten-free pasta shape you like, such as ditalini or elbows. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different pasta shapes may cook at different rates. I’ve tried it with a few different brands, and Barilla seems to hold its shape the best.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! This **Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni** is a great base for adding protein. You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beans. I often add leftover grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for a quick and easy protein boost. Just stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking, so it warms through.
Is it possible to make this in a slow cooker?
I haven’t tried it myself, but I think it would work! You would need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. I would recommend toasting the rice and pasta in a skillet first, then transferring them to the slow cooker with the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the rice is tender. Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

This **Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni** recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect way to relive those childhood memories without sacrificing your dietary needs. The creamy texture, the savory flavor, and the sheer comfort it brings are simply unmatched. If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious gluten-free meal that the whole family will love, this is it! And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other gluten-free comfort food creations. I have a gluten-free mac and cheese recipe that’s just as amazing! Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out, so leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you make any fun variations, be sure to share them with me!

No ratings yet
Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni

Gluten-Free Rice-a-Roni

A delicious and easy gluten-free twist on the classic Rice-a-Roni.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup gluten-free rice blend
  • 1 cup water
  • 0.5 cup vegetable broth
  • 0.5 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Combine rice blend, water, and vegetable broth in a saucepan.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender.
  • Stir in diced tomatoes and oregano.
  • Serve hot.

Notes

This recipe can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.

Recipes Should You See

As Seen On:

Comments are closed.

as seen on:

as seen on:

Download My FREE Protein Meal Plan!