Dirty Rice with Ground Beef and Cajun Spices
Bold, hearty, and packed with Southern flavor, this Dirty Rice with Ground Beef and Cajun Spices is a delicious one-pot meal you’ll love. Savory ground beef is cooked with fluffy rice and a blend of zesty Cajun spices, creating a rich and satisfying dish with just the right kick.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (optional, if meat is very lean)
- 1 cup onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Meat : In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat (skip oil if using fatty beef). Add ground beef (and chicken livers if using) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2: Add the Holy Trinity : Add onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the skillet.Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 3: Season and Toast the Rice : Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.Add the uncooked rice to the pan, stirring for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast and coat the grains in flavor.
- Step 4: Simmer Until Tender : Pour in beef broth, stir, and bring to a boil.Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.Fluff with a fork.
- Step 5: Finish and Serve : Stir in green onions and parsley.Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.