Dirty Rice Made With Ground Beef

Dirty rice is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s a comfort food favorite, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, all brought together with the richness of spices. This version, made with ground beef, is an easy and quick twist on the classic, and it’s sure to become a go-to meal for busy nights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dirty rice recipe is full of bold flavors and a simple, yet delicious approach to a beloved Southern dish. The ground beef adds a savory depth to the rice, while the sautéed onions and bell peppers bring freshness and a nice balance of sweetness. The seasoning with thyme, paprika, and a dash of cayenne brings just the right amount of heat and complexity. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to please with its comforting and flavorful combination.

Ingredients

• Olive oil

• Ground beef

• Onion and bell pepper

• Cooked rice (preferably day-old)

• Dried thyme, paprika, optional cayenne

• Salt, pepper, and optional scallions

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Rice
   If you don’t already have cooked rice, prepare it according to package instructions. Day-old rice is ideal for the best texture, so if possible, cook your rice the day before.

2. Cook the Ground Beef
   In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains.

3. Sauté the Vegetables
   Add the diced onion and chopped bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir and cook for about 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

4. Season the Mixture
   Sprinkle in the dried thyme, paprika, a pinch of cayenne (if you like heat), along with salt and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.

5. Combine with Rice
   Add the cooked rice to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 4–5 minutes, letting the rice absorb all the flavors.

6. Serve
   Garnish with sliced scallions if desired and enjoy hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes (if using pre-cooked rice)

• Cook time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier dish. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and substitute with a plant-based protein or a mixture of beans and veggies for a meatless version.

• Cajun Style: Use a Cajun spice blend in place of the thyme and paprika, and include some minced celery for a true “holy trinity” flavor.

• Rice Choice: If you don’t have day-old rice, freshly cooked rice can work, but make sure it’s slightly cooled and not too moist to avoid a mushy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the rice seems dry, add a little splash of water or broth to help it rehydrate.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes! Add extra cayenne, crushed red pepper flakes, or even diced jalapeños for more heat.

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

Yes, but try to let it cool and dry out slightly before adding it to the skillet so the texture is not too mushy.

Is Dirty Rice usually made with beef?

Traditionally, dirty rice includes chicken livers or gizzards, but ground beef is a popular and easy modern alternative.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese as a topping.

How can I make it more authentic Cajun-style?

Use a Cajun spice blend and add a little minced celery for that classic “holy trinity” flavor.

Should I drain the beef after browning?

If there’s a lot of grease, drain some off, but leave a little behind for flavor.

How fine should I dice the vegetables?

Small dice works best so the vegetables cook quickly and blend seamlessly with the rice.

When should I add the spices?

Add the spices after the vegetables have softened but before adding the rice, so they bloom in the fat and develop full flavor.

Can I cook the rice in the same skillet?

This recipe assumes you’re using pre-cooked rice, but you can simmer raw rice in broth with the beef and vegetables if you prefer a one-step meal. This will take longer to cook.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Use a non-stick skillet, stir frequently, and ensure there’s some oil or fat left in the pan when adding the rice.

Conclusion

Dirty rice made with ground beef is a fantastic, comforting dish that comes together quickly and is packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough to adjust based on your spice preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!