Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

Step-by-step instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. If there’s too much excess fat, don’t hesitate to drain it.
Next, throw in the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté these veggies for about 3-5 minutes, until they’re softened and fragrant.
Now it’s time to introduce the rice! Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice for 1-2 minutes to let it toast slightly.
Add your delicious spices: smoked paprika, dried thyme, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper. Mix well, then pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a hearty boil.
Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover your skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
After simmering, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot!

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving Dirty Rice is as easy as it is delicious. For a comfortable family meal, serve it in bowls topped with fresh green onions. To elevate the dish, pair it with a simple side salad or some cornbread. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add some grilled shrimp or chicken for an extra protein boost. The possibilities are endless!

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers are where the magic continues! Store any uneaten Dirty Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems too dry. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags; they’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Helpful cooking tips

For added depth of flavor, consider searing the ground beef with a little chopped bacon before adding the vegetables.
If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to up the Cajun seasoning or throw in some diced jalapeños.
Don’t skip toasting the rice! It enhances the nutty flavor and adds a delightful texture to the dish.

Creative twists

There are so many ways to put a personal spin on Dirty Rice! Try incorporating leftover cooked chicken for a quick weeknight savior. You can also experiment with different meats, like sausage or even plant-based proteins for a vegetarian version. If you’re in the mood for heat, incorporate sriracha or hot sauce as garnish before serving.

FAQs

What’s the prep time for Dirty Rice with Ground Beef?

Prep time is quick! You can expect to spend about 10-15 minutes chopping vegetables and meat. Cooking time is around 25-30 minutes in total, making this an ideal weeknight meal.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Certainly! Just note that you’ll need to increase the cooking time and possibly the liquid a bit. Brown rice typically takes about 10-15 minutes longer to cook than white rice.