How to Make Rice-A-Roni in a Rice Cooker

Quick answer: Yes, you can make Rice-A-Roni in a rice cooker. Follow the water amount on the box (often 2 cups for the standard box), brown the vermicelli in a little butter first if your cooker has a sauté function or use a pan, then add the rice mix, water and seasoning and cook on the white rice setting.

Last updated: November 1, 2026

What you need

• 1 box of Rice-A-Roni (check the box for the water amount)
• About 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• Water as listed on the box

Steps

1. Melt the butter in a pan or the cooker’s sauté function.
2. Add the rice and vermicelli from the box and stir until golden brown.
3. Move to the rice cooker pot if you used a pan.
4. Add the water and seasoning packet, and stir.
5. Close the lid and press Cook on the white rice setting.
6. When it switches to Keep Warm, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then fluff.

Browning the pasta gives the dish its flavor, but if you skip it you can still cook the mix directly in the cooker with the water amount on the box. Results vary by cooker and box size.

Frequently asked questions

How much water for Rice-A-Roni in a rice cooker?

Use the amount on the box. It is often 2 cups for the standard size, but check your flavor.

Do I need to brown the pasta first?

It gives better flavor, but is optional in a rice cooker.

Can I add vegetables or chicken?

Yes, in small amounts below the max line. Cook raw chicken separately.

Related guides

• What else can you cook in a rice cooker?
• Rice cooker recipes

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