Dirty Rice with Ground Beef – A One-Pot Cajun Classic Full of Bold Flavor

When you think of comfort food that’s hearty, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor, Dirty Rice with Ground Beef should be at the top of your list. This Southern staple—infused with rich spices, tender beef, and perfectly cooked rice—gets its “dirty” name from the way the meat and seasoning color the rice. It’s the kind of dish that hits every note: savory, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this one-pot wonder delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s easy enough for weeknights, yet bold enough to impress guests.

 Why You’ll Love This Dirty Rice

• One pot = less cleanup
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Incredibly budget-friendly
• Customizable with any veggies or protein
• Naturally gluten-free
• Full of Cajun soul and Southern warmth

Bonus: This dish ranks well in search thanks to keywords like “easy dirty rice with ground beef,” “one-pot Cajun rice,” and “Southern beef rice recipe.”

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so comforting:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the meat and veggies
• 1 lb ground beef – adds richness and protein
• 1 small onion, finely diced – brings sweetness and depth
• 1 bell pepper (green or red), diced – adds color and crunch
• 1 cup long-grain white rice – the main star that soaks up all the flavor
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained) – adds tangy moisture
• 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed chicken broth – the secret to tender, flavorful rice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional) – for a spicy Southern kick
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) – adds freshness at the end

Step-by-Step Instructions

  Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally and breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, drain excess fat to avoid greasiness.

Want a leaner option? Try ground turkey or chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the same pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This base builds a sweet-savory flavor that deepens the entire dish.

Step 3: Add Rice & Liquids

Pour in the uncooked white rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning (if using). Stir everything together thoroughly so the rice is fully coated and submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 18–22 minutes, or until the rice is fully tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Don’t lift the lid too often—steam is your friend in getting the rice fluffy!

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Turn off the heat. If desired, stir in freshly chopped parsley for brightness and color. Serve hot and enjoy the deep, rich flavors of the South in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Dirty rice is fantastic on its own, but here are some ways to make it a full meal:

• Serve with cornbread or buttermilk biscuits
• Add a side of collard greens or okra
• Top with a fried egg for brunch-style dirty rice
• Pair with hot sauce or pickled jalapeños for an extra kick

Variations to Try

• Add sausage: Replace half the beef with spicy Andouille sausage
• Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based meat and vegetable broth
• Add kidney beans: For extra protein and a Louisiana twist
• Use brown rice: Increase simmer time by 10–15 minutes and add 1/2 cup extra broth
• FAQ

Can I make dirty rice ahead of time?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze dirty rice?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, store in airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What makes it “dirty”?

The “dirty” look comes from the cooked meat and seasoning blending into the rice, giving it a darker, earthy appearance.