In skillet, brown 1# ground beef. In second skillet, cook rice-a-roni as directed. When rice-a-roni mix is done, add the ground beef to it. Spice to taste with onion and/or garlic salts/powders. (I add a sprinkle of basil as well.) Add a dash of the cooking sherry or wine before final stirring and serving.
Include a green salad. Makes it less of a depressing meal. (See "salad" for suggestions.)