Dirty Rice with Ground Beef
Dirty Rice is a classic Southern dish packed with bold flavor, spices, and a hearty mix of rice, ground beef, and vegetables. It’s easy to make and perfect as a main dish or a flavorful side.
📝 Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (or ground pork/turkey)
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1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
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2 ¼ cups beef broth or water
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1 small green bell pepper, diced
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1 small onion, diced
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2 ribs celery, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1–2 tbsp oil or butter
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Salt, to taste
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Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
🍳 Instructions
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Cook the rice:
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Rinse rice under cold water.
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In a medium saucepan, bring 2 ¼ cups of broth or water to a boil.
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Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until tender.
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Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
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Brown the ground beef:
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In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess grease if needed.
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Sauté vegetables:
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To the same pan, add onion, bell pepper, and celery.
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Cook for 5–7 minutes, until soft.
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Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
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Add seasoning:
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Stir in Cajun seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, and pepper.
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Taste and adjust salt and spice level as needed.
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Combine with rice:
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Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir until everything is evenly mixed.
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Let it heat through for 2–3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
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Garnish and serve:
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Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
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Serve hot as a main course or side dish.
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❓ Dirty Rice with Ground Beef – Q&A
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but it will take longer to cook (typically 40–45 minutes). You may also need more liquid. Pre-cook the brown rice separately, then add it in during the final mixing stage.
Q: What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole seasoning?
A: Cajun seasoning is typically spicier with more emphasis on garlic and paprika. Creole seasoning includes more herbs like oregano and thyme. Either works well in this dish!
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. It reheats well in the microwave or stovetop. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze Dirty Rice?
A: Yes. Allow it to cool completely and freeze in portions. It will keep for up to 2–3 months. Reheat in the microwave or skillet with a splash of broth.
Q: What can I serve with Dirty Rice?
A: It’s great on its own, but it pairs well with:
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Cornbread
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Fried chicken or grilled sausage
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Collard greens or a green salad
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Black-eyed peas
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or mushrooms instead of beef, and swap beef broth for vegetable broth.