Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

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Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is a Southern comfort food classic that blends simple ingredients into one irresistible one-pan dish. Each bite delivers the perfect combination of tender ground beef, savory aromatics, and fluffy rice, all infused with a Cajun-inspired flavor profile. It’s hearty, deeply satisfying, and packed with just the right touch of heat and spice.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just want a cozy dish with bold flavors, Dirty Rice is a go-to option. The magic lies in how effortlessly it comes together—pantry staples transformed into a meal that’s anything but ordinary. It’s the kind of dinner that makes you come back for seconds… and thirds.

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Ingredients for this Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 2 1/4 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Season Everything

Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef and vegetables evenly with spices. Let the mixture cook for another minute to bloom the flavors.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth. Mix well and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer Until Done

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid to ensure the rice cooks properly.

Step 6: Fluff and Garnish

Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. Fluff the mixture with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Dirty Rice with Ground Beef?

That depends on the Cajun seasoning used. Most blends offer a mild to medium heat, but you can always reduce the amount or choose a low-sodium, milder version.

Can I substitute brown rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may need extra liquid. Add 1/2 cup more broth and increase simmer time to about 35–40 minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just ensure your beef broth and Cajun seasoning are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, and use vegetable broth.

What’s the best way to meal prep this dish?

Make a large batch, portion it into individual containers, and refrigerate or freeze. It reheats beautifully and keeps its flavor.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Use long-grain white rice and don’t stir too much while it cooks. Keeping the lid on during the simmer is also key.

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