Dirty Rice with Ground Beef Recipe

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Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is a flavor-packed Southern comfort dish that brings a hearty, savory punch to the dinner table. It gets its name from the rich color the rice takes on after being cooked with ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings. This one-pot wonder is ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.

What makes this dish so appealing is its versatility. While traditionally made with chicken livers, this version with ground beef delivers the same deep flavor with a more familiar taste profile for many. The combination of spices, aromatics, and bell peppers mixed with fluffy rice makes every bite memorable. It’s bold, satisfying, and just a little bit spicy—exactly how comfort food should be.

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Ingredients for the Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 red or green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
• 2 cups beef broth
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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How To Make the Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion, bell peppers, and celery to the browned beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and stir well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Stir in the uncooked long-grain rice, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Fluff and Garnish

Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

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How to Serve and Store Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is best served hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, roasted green beans, or even a slice of cornbread to round out the meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce right before serving.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and microwave it covered to keep it from drying out. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is dirty rice?

It depends on your Cajun seasoning. Some blends are hotter than others, so taste and adjust as needed. You can always add more heat with cayenne pepper.

Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey, pork, or a mix of meats can be used. You can also go traditional and use finely chopped chicken livers for authentic dirty rice flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Dirty rice tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together. Just reheat before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

As long as your beef broth and Cajun seasoning are gluten-free, the entire dish will be safe for gluten-free diets.

What kind of vegetables can I add?

You can include chopped mushrooms, jalapeños, or even spinach to sneak in extra veggies.

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