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Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, One-Pot
  • Cuisine: Southern, Cajun

Description

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is a classic Southern one-pot recipe packed with bold Cajun flavor. Made with ground beef, white rice, and aromatic vegetables, this easy weeknight meal is hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  3. Stir in onion, bell pepper, and celery; sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in uncooked rice and coat it with the mixture.
  6. Pour in beef broth; add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until rice is tender.
  8. Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.

Notes

  • For traditional flavor, try adding ¼ cup finely chopped chicken livers.
  • For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
  • Easily swap ground beef for turkey, sausage, or a plant-based alternative.
  • Add frozen peas or spinach at the end for extra veggies.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; freezes well for up to 3 months.