Dirty rice with ground beef

Here’s a simple and flavorful Dirty Rice with Ground Beef recipe. This dish is a twist on the traditional Cajun-style dirty rice, using ground beef instead of liver and other meats. It’s hearty, slightly spicy, and perfect as a main dish or side.

Ingredients (serves 4-6)

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (green or red), finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for heat)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the skillet with the beef.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

4. Season the Mixture

1. Stir in smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
2. Cook for another 2 minutes, letting the spices toast slightly.

5. Combine with Rice

1. Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture.
2. Stir well to combine and ensure the rice is evenly coated with the seasonings.

6. Serve

1. Garnish with chopped green onions.
2. Serve hot, with hot sauce on the side if desired.

Tips

• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of soy sauce for a deeper flavor.
• Vegetable Variations: You can add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or corn for extra color and texture.
• Make Ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheats nicely.

This Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is quick, filling, and full of savory flavor—perfect for a weeknight meal or as a side to grilled meats. 🌶️🍚

If you want, I can also give you a one-pot version that cooks the rice and beef together for even less cleanup. Do you want me to do that?