I browned up 1 lb of hamburger, drained the grease and whistled for the dog, added come butter back to the pan and browned up some smashed ziti and onions then put the meat back in with 2 1/2 cups water, 1/2 cup rice, sage, thyme, garlic, black pepper, red pepper, hot sauce, parsley, a beef boullion cube, soy sauce, a pinch of Italian seasoning and a splash of wine. Bring to boil, reduce heat and give it 25 minutes. Hugs, Devlyn