My Cajun/Creole in-laws cook from scratch EVERYDAY. I love the food but don't have the time or the patience to do that so I cheat... Using the recommended Microwave cookware, I saute an onion and about a quarter pound of lean ground beef for 1 box&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Rice-a-Roni-Red-Beans-Rice-5-Ounce-Boxes-Pack-of-12/dp/B000YPKQ64/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Rice a Roni Red Beans & Rice, 5-Ounce Boxes (Pack of 12)</a>. Then mix in contents of the spice packet thoroughly. Add the rice and beans and the water as indicated on the package per MICROWAVE DIRECTIONS. Cook as indicated on the box. In about 22 minutes, Presto you will have a wonderful meal. NO it's not as wonderful as the in-laws down home cooking BUT it's really good!