Making a flavorful side dish couldn’t be easier thanks to Instant Pot Rice A Roni. This simple method brings all the comforting flavors of the classic boxed favorite to your pressure cooker for quick and easy prep. No need to babysit the stove — with just a few steps, this recipe delivers perfectly tender rice and pasta cooked in savory broth. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you need a dependable side dish that everyone will enjoy.
If you love easy sides, this Rice A Roni Instant Pot version is about to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, hands-off, and brings homemade comfort to your table with minimal effort. Using just a few pantry staples like boxed Rice-A-Roni, broth, and butter, you can make a satisfying and flavorful dish that tastes just like the stovetop version — only easier. This is the perfect solution for when you want a copycat rice recipe without the fuss. Plus, if you enjoy making instant pot rice recipes, this one is a must-try. Not only is it a time-saver, but it also makes a wonderful base for adding extras like cooked chicken or vegetables to turn it into a full meal. The best part? This simple Instapot Rice A Roni recipe fits right in with your collection of great recipes for busy nights or casual family dinners.
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Why We Love This Rice A Roni Instant Pot
- It’s completely hands-off and hassle-free.
No more standing over the stove or constantly stirring. This instant pot rice a roni recipe makes things simple. Just set it, let the pressure cooker do the work, and focus on the rest of your dinner. It’s a great way to free up your time while still serving something tasty. - Perfect, tender rice every time.
Cooking rice under pressure works much like a rice cooker but even faster. The steam and high pressure ensure that every grain turns out soft, fluffy, and full of flavor. My recipe is perfect for those with 3 quart Instant Pots (although this works equally well in the larger models!). After owning a 6-quart Instant Pot for years, I purchased a smaller pot several months ago. - Ideal for small kitchens and side dish prep.
If you have a smaller Instant Pot, this recipe fits right in with your favorite instant pot rice recipes. The compact size makes it easy to whip up side dishes like this or even mashed potatoes, without taking up too much space. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since the inner pot is dishwasher safe — making this a go-to for quick, no-fuss meals.
I use it more than I ever imagined; it is the perfect size for side dishes like Rice-A-Roni and mashed potatoes, for making hard-boiled eggs, and for recipes like salsa chicken and sour cream pork chops.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
You can use any flavor of Rice-A-Roni that you want to make this delicious side dish. I like using the low-sodium Chicken version.
Here is everything you need to make the best-boxed rice in the Instant Pot:
- Rice-A-Roni: You can use any flavor you like. You can also make your own by using brown rice and adding your favorite seasonings and aromatics.
- Butter: You can substitute it for olive oil. However, butter gives more flavor than olive oil.
- Chicken broth: I recommend you use low sodium. You can also use vegetable or beef broth. If you prefer to use beef broth, then I suggest using beef-flavored Rice-A-Roni to match the flavor.
- Water: If you want a richer flavor, omit this and use all broth instead.
Recipe Variations
- Switch up the rice: While this recipe uses the classic boxed mix, you can make your own pantry version using white rice and orzo pasta. Choose long grain for the best texture. This homemade option lets you control the seasoning and adjust to your taste.
- Add extra flavor with spices: For a more savory touch, stir in a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper before pressure cooking. These pantry staples boost the overall flavor without any extra effort.
- Try different rice options: Want something a little heartier? Swap them for instant pot brown rice. Just remember that it takes longer to cook, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for perfect results.
- Mix in cheese or fresh herbs: Once cooked, stir in shredded cheese for a creamy twist or sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Both are easy ways to make your Rice A Roni Instant Pot even more satisfying.
Equipment Used in this Recipe
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
How to Make Instapot Rice A Roni
This easy and delicious recipe requires 3 simple steps to prepare in the Instant Pot:
- First, use the sauté function of the Instant Pot to cook and heat the butter or oil. Add the rice and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden, stirring frequently. Press cancel to stop sautéing.
- Now add the broth, water, and the package seasonings, and stir to combine. Close the lid and seal the vent valve. Set the pressure cooker to manual pressure cook for 5 minutes.
- Then do a quick pressure release per your Instant Pot’s instructions. Use a spoon or fork to fluff the rice, and serve warm.
🎯 TFN Pro Tip
Don’t skip sautéing in butter before pressure cooking. This step adds a rich, nutty flavor that makes your Instapot Rice A Roni taste even better and gives it that classic, toasted finish.
Serving Suggestions
This instant pot rice a roni is a perfect side dish that pairs effortlessly with just about any main course. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, baked pork chops, or juicy meatballs for a comforting and complete meal. It’s also a great match for saucy dishes, as it soaks up flavors beautifully. For a lighter option, pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. You can even turn it into a simple one-bowl meal by adding cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or sautéed shrimp right into the rice. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finishing touch and enjoy this easy side any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
If you want to include frozen vegetables in this recipe, simply place on top of the rice just before adding the lid. No need to stir or adjust cook time!
Pair this classic boxed rice side dish with Instant Pot chicken tenderloins, seared chicken breast, salt and pepper squid, or buttermilk brined pork chops.
Transfer cooled Rice-A-Roni to a container with a lid, and keep in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in 30-second bursts until warm, stirring between heating. You can also reheat on the stovetop in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
More Rice Recipes To Love…
- Wild Rice Blend Instant Pot
- Coconut Milk Rice Instant Pot
- Blackstone Griddle Fried Rice
- Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice
If you tried this rice-a-roni recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Thanks for visiting!
Instant Pot Rice A Roni
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
Ingredients
- 1 box (6.8 ounces) Rice-A-Roni (any variety)
- 2 tablespoons butter (can substitute olive oil)
- ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Set pressure cooker to sauté and add butter or oil to the pot. Once pot is ready, add rice and sauté until the rice begins to turn golden (3-5 minutes). Press cancel to end sauté.
- Add broth, water, and seasonings to rice and stir to mix. Close and seal lid, turn vent to seal (if needed). Set pot manually to high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning or pressing the pressure release button (refer to your pot's instructions). Fluff the rice by stirring before serving.
Video
Notes
- Don’t skip sautéing the rice and pasta in butter before pressure cooking. This step adds a rich, nutty flavor that makes your instant pot rice a roni taste even better and gives it that classic, toasted finish.
- If you’re swapping in your own pantry staples like long grain white rice or trying instant pot brown rice, make sure to adjust the liquid slightly. Brown rice, in particular, will need more broth and a longer cooking time to achieve the right texture.
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- Switch up the rice: While this recipe uses the classic boxed mix, you can make your own pantry version using white rice and orzo pasta. Choose long grain white rice for the best texture. This homemade option lets you control the seasoning and adjust to your taste.
-
- Add extra flavor with spices: For a more savory touch, stir in a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper before pressure cooking. These pantry staples boost the overall flavor without any extra effort.
-
- Try different rice options: Want something a little heartier? Swap the white rice for instant pot brown rice. Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for perfect results.
-
- Mix in cheese or fresh herbs: Once cooked, stir in shredded cheese for a creamy twist or sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Both are easy ways to make your instant pot rice a roni even more satisfying.
- Transfer cooled Rice-A-Roni to a container with a lid, and keep in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
- To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in 30-second bursts until warm, stirring between heating.
- You can also reheat on the stovetop in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
Nutrition
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Debra Gummerson says
Thanks for the recipe. When cooking this for a large group how many boxes do you think can be done at once? I have a 6 qt. Pot.
Renae says
I would say that you can make up to 5 boxes. You can safely fill the Instant Pot up to 4 quarts (or 2/3) for starchy foods, which is 14 cups. Each box needs 2.5 cups of water, so between the water and rice I think you could make 5 boxes.
Jeril says
You state 2.5 cups per box but the recipe states 1.25 per box.
Bec - TFN Team Member says
Hi Jeril,
It sounds like you might be using the smaller sized boxes. You’ll want to use two of those.
Ashley says
Hi! Thanks for posting this recipe. Do you think it’s possible to add ground beef to this while it cooks?
Renae says
Sure! I would saute/brown the ground beef, then add the rice and seasonings in that order, before pressure cooking. If your ground beef is already cooked or frozen, just stir it in with the rice before pressure cooking.
Annie McD says
I need to make multiple boxes of Rice A Roni in my instant pot. Do I need to increase the pressure cooking time?
Renae says
Theoretically, you shouldn’t have to and I wouldn’t. You’ll be adding more water (and rice) to the pot, so the pot will take slightly longer to come to pressure anyway. Be sure to follow the directions carefully to avoid getting a burn notice. That’s happened to me once when I was in a hurry and forgot to stir the rice before pressure cooking.
Sandra Hoopes says
I love this! It brought back such fun childhood memories. Delicious, too!
Renae says
Right? I thought it would be fun to modernize an old favorite!
The Foodie Affair says
So simple to make rice a roni in an instant pot! We’ve been trying all types of recipes. Make this to serve with chicken and every bite was gone. Will make again.
Renae says
I found that rice in my Instant Pot can be challenging, but this rice recipe has been so reliable. I’m glad you liked it, too!