Name: Dirty Rice with Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 cups cooked long grain white rice; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 2 tbsp chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Dirty rice with ground beef is a bold, savory, and comforting one-pot dish that’s full of Cajun flavor. Traditionally made with chicken livers, this version uses ground beef for a more approachable twist that still delivers the rich, seasoned taste I love. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect as a main course or a side dish for a Southern-style meal.

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and satisfying this dish is — it’s a full meal made in one pan with simple ingredients. The ground beef adds richness, while the holy trinity of Cajun cooking (bell pepper, celery, and onion) builds layers of flavor. With rice soaking up all the seasonings and spices, every bite is comforting and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to use pantry staples and transform them into something bold and delicious.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Long grain white rice (cooked)
Yellow onion
Green bell pepper
Celery stalks
Garlic (minced)
Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Paprika
Dried thyme
Salt and pepper
Chicken broth or beef broth
Olive oil or butter
Green onions or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

I start by heating a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. I drain off excess fat if needed.
I stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
I add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
I stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, adjusting the heat level to my preference.
I pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer.
I add the cooked rice and stir everything together, letting it cook for 5–7 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice is heated through.
I taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then garnish with green onions or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 servings as a main dish or 6–8 as a side.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

I’ve made this with ground turkey or sausage for a different twist.
To make it more traditional, I sometimes mix in a small amount of finely chopped chicken liver.
A splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne adds extra heat.
I occasionally stir in diced tomatoes or tomato paste for added depth.
For extra protein, I’ve added chopped cooked chicken or shrimp at the end.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. It also microwaves well in short bursts, stirring in between. I’ve also frozen portions in freezer bags and thawed them overnight for an easy meal later.

FAQs

What makes it “dirty” rice?

The name comes from the browned meat and spices that give the rice a darker, “dirty” appearance. It’s a classic dish in Cajun and Creole cooking.

Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?

Yes, I’ve made it from scratch using uncooked rice. I just add it in after the veggies are sautéed, pour in more broth (about 2 cups), and simmer until the rice is tender — around 20 minutes covered.

Is this dish spicy?

It depends on the Cajun seasoning I use. Some blends are spicier than others, so I taste as I go and adjust with cayenne or hot sauce if I want more kick.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors deepen as it sits, and it reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.

What should I serve with dirty rice?

I usually serve it with cornbread, fried okra, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Dirty rice with ground beef is one of my favorite comforting, flavorful meals that’s easy enough for any night of the week. I love how the spices, veggies, and meat all come together in one pan for a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and totally crave-worthy. Whether I serve it on its own or as a side, it always hits the spot.