Here’s a hearty, flavorful recipe for Dirty Rice with Ground Beef — a Southern classic made with bold spices, sautéed veggies, and ground meat all tossed with fluffy rice. It’s simple, affordable, and super satisfying — perfect as a main dish or a side.
🍚 Dirty Rice with Ground Beef
🧾 Ingredients:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 small green bell pepper, diced
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2 celery stalks, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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1/2 tsp dried thyme
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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2 cups cooked white rice (day-old rice works best)
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1/4 cup beef broth or water (to loosen the rice if needed)
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
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Optional: dash of hot sauce or cayenne for heat
🔪 Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
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Drain excess fat if needed. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
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Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet with the beef.
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Cook for 5–6 minutes until vegetables are soft and fragrant.
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Stir in garlic, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 more minute.
3. Add Rice:
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Stir in the cooked rice and mix thoroughly to combine everything.
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Add broth or water a little at a time to keep the rice moist but not soggy.
4. Finish & Serve:
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Taste and adjust seasoning (add more Cajun spice or a pinch of cayenne if desired).
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Cook another 3–5 minutes until heated through and well mixed.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
📝 Tips & Variations:
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Traditional dirty rice includes chopped chicken livers or gizzards for a deeper, authentic flavor — feel free to add some!
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Make it spicier with jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra cayenne.
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Want a smoky depth? Add a splash of Worcestershire or a bit of bacon grease.
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Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.