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Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

5.1 from 7 reviews

A flavorful and hearty Dirty Rice recipe featuring ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and Cajun spices. This comforting one-pot meal combines tender rice cooked in beef broth with sautéed bell peppers, onions, celery, and a bold blend of seasonings for an authentic Southern taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings & Oils

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the long grain white rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice in 2 cups of beef broth according to the package directions. Once cooked, set aside and keep warm.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until they become soft and fragrant.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning.
  4. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is completely browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from being greasy.
  5. Season the Meat and Vegetables: Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to evenly coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
  6. Combine Rice and Meat Mixture: Add the cooked rice into the skillet with the seasoned meat and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly.
  7. Simmer and Meld Flavors: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the rice absorbs the savory seasoning.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and color. Serve hot as a satisfying main dish.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat beautifully.
  • To make it gluten-free, ensure your Cajun seasoning and beef broth are certified gluten-free.
  • Adding a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can enhance depth of flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dirty Rice, Ground Beef Recipe, Cajun Rice, Southern Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal