Dirty Rice with Ground Beef – Southern Comfort Food
If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly dinner, Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is the recipe you need. This classic Southern-inspired dish gets its name from the “dirty” appearance of the rice, which comes from being cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices that give it a rich color and taste.
Traditionally, dirty rice is a Cajun and Creole dish from Louisiana, often made with chicken livers or gizzards. But today, we’ll be making a simpler and family-friendly version using ground beef, which is easier to prepare while still delivering that bold, comforting flavor. It’s a one-pot recipe, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum taste—perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 green or red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed chicken broth (or 1 ½ cups regular chicken broth)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra Southern flavor)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until fully browned (about 5–7 minutes).
- Drain excess grease to keep the dish light but flavorful.
Step 2 – Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot with the beef.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aroma.
Step 3 – Add the Rice & Liquids
- Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and chicken broth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning if you like a little spice.
Step 4 – Simmer to Perfection
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Check to make sure the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5 – Finish & Serve
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, stir in fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
Dirty rice can be enjoyed on its own as a complete meal, or paired with:
- Cornbread – the perfect Southern side.
- Fried or roasted chicken – for a hearty dinner.
- Coleslaw or salad – for freshness and balance.
- Grilled vegetables – for a lighter touch.
Tips & Variations
- Make it Cajun-style: Use andouille sausage or add chicken livers for the authentic Louisiana flavor.
- Rice options: Long-grain rice works best, but you can also try jasmine or basmati for fragrance.
- Vegetable boost: Add celery, carrots, or peas for more texture and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Use extra Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce if you like it bold.
- Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving for a creamy variation.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist, or microwave until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it called “dirty rice”?
Because the rice takes on a darker, “dirty” color after being cooked with meat, vegetables, and seasonings.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 40 minutes and add extra broth.
3. Is this dish spicy?
Not necessarily. Cajun seasoning can be mild or hot depending on the brand. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or mushrooms for a vegetarian dirty rice.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is the kind of dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a flavorful one-pot meal that’s filling, delicious, and easy to customize. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy.