Dirty Rice with Ground Beef (30-Minutes)
This Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is a flavorful, one-pan Southern classic ready in just 30 minutes! Made with perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and aromatic vegetables, it’s hearty, comforting, and full of bold Cajun flavor. Quick, budget-friendly, and satisfying perfect for weeknight dinners or easy meal prep!
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Use lean ground beef around 90/10. It cooks fast and gives great flavor.
- Cooked rice: White rice works best but you can use brown rice for more fiber.
- Onion and bell pepper: These add sweetness and texture.
- Garlic: Freshly chopped garlic brings depth.
- Cajun or Creole seasoning: The heart of this dish. Use a store blend or make your own.
- Beef broth: Helps blend the flavors and gives the rice a moist texture.
- Green onions: For freshness and color at the end.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any extra fat.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
- Add chopped onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir often so they don’t burn.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
- Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables. The seasoning will start to darken and stick to the bottom — that’s what gives the rice its “dirty” color.
Step 4: Add the Rice and Broth
- Stir in the cooked rice and pour in the beef broth. Mix everything together until combined. Let it cook for 5 minutes on low heat so the rice absorbs the flavors.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Turn off the heat. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot.That’s it. Dinner done.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use long-grain white or brown rice for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Lean ground beef keeps the dish hearty but not greasy—drain excess fat after browning.
- Add finely chopped chicken livers for traditional Cajun flavor, or skip for a milder taste.
- Sauté onions, bell peppers, and celery until soft to build a rich flavor base.
- Season with Cajun or Creole seasoning; adjust spice level to taste.
- Mix cooked rice thoroughly so it absorbs the meat juices evenly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days; reheat with a splash of broth.
- Freeze portions for quick weeknight meals—thaw overnight before reheating.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: ~420 kcalCarbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 3 g
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Cholesterol: 65 mg
Sodium: 580 mg
Potassium: 350 mg
Calcium: 50 mg
Iron: 3 mg