Best Dirty Rice Recipe – Easy Cajun Style Rice with Ground Beef
A hearty Cajun-style rice dish prepared with seasoned ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and rich Southern spices. This simple one-pan recipe is packed with bold flavor and makes a satisfying, filling meal that’s perfect for quick and easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
1 pound (450 g) ground beef
2 cups (400 g) cooked long-grain white rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely diced (about 1 cup / 150 g)
1 green bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup / 150 g)
2 celery stalks, diced (about 1/2 cup / 75 g)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium beef broth
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
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Cook the rice according to package instructions until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Add paprika, Cajun seasoning, thyme, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables.
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Pour in beef broth and mix thoroughly.
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Add cooked rice and stir until everything is evenly combined. Cook for 3–4 minutes so the rice absorbs the flavor.
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Stir in sliced green onions and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.