The name, vodka, comes from the Russian phrase zhiznennaia voda, or "water of life". It can be made from everything from potatoes to beets. It's considered to be fairly flavorless which makes it a great liquor for mixed drinks.
Quick Skillet Dinner
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- #84170
Make a quick and easy skillet meal starting with a package of beef flavored pasta mix. Simply add ground beef and simmer.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
4 reviews
ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 package (8 ounce size) beef flavor rice and pasta mix
2 3/4 cups hot water
directions
Add the ground beef to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
Add the raw rice-pasta mixture to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, until the pasta is lightly browned.
Stir the water and seasoning packet from the rice mix into the beef mixture. Mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let cook for 15 minutes or until the rice-pasta is tender.
Stir gently then serve the quick skillet dinner hot.
recipe tips
Brown the ground beef thoroughly for the best flavor and texture.
Constant stirring while browning the pasta helps prevent it from sticking and burning.
Make sure the skillet is covered tightly while simmering to properly cook the rice-pasta mix.
Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
For a cheesy dish, sprinkle grated cheese over the top near the end of cooking until melted.
Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup.
Monitor the liquid level during cooking and add more if necessary to prevent the dish from drying out.
common recipe questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or frozen peas can add flavor. Add them when you brown the meat or during the last few minutes of simmering.
Can I use a different flavor of rice and pasta mix?
Yes, you can use any flavor of rice and pasta mix.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapenos when cooking the ground beef.
What can I do if the rice-pasta mix is not fully cooked after 15 minutes?
If the rice-pasta mix is still hard after 15 minutes, add a bit more water and continue simmering until it reaches the desired tenderness.
Can I make this dish with leftover cooked rice or pasta?
Yes, you can use leftover cooked rice or pasta. Add it towards the end of the cooking process just to heat it through since it's already cooked.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I freeze this skillet dinner?
This dish can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is it necessary to drain the grease from the ground beef?
Draining the grease is recommended to reduce the fat content and prevent the dish from being too greasy.
Can I use broth instead of water for more flavor?
Yes, using beef, chicken, or vegetable broth instead of water can add more depth to the dish's flavor.
nutrition data
492 calories, 24 grams fat, 41 grams carbohydrates, 26 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
November 18, 2022
Almost seems too simple to be good but don't let that fool you. Used a low sodium mix and then just added a little Braggs aminos for some salty flavor. Almost embarrassed to say how much of this I ate!
April 25, 2018
I have made this for years. It is my go-to comfort food. I also squirt some catsup on it before I eat it. YUM.
November 9, 2013
I'm a college student living on a pretty tight budget and this recipe actually comes in handy. I use coupons to get the rice mix on sale and buy large pkg of ground beef and repackage it in one pound chunks. I can have a decent entree in under 30 minutes for a very reasonable price. If I can get ground turkey or chicken cheaper I'll sometimes use that and use the chicken flavored rice. No, it's not gourmet, but it's good!
October 16, 2013
A nobrainer recipe but tasty nonetheless.