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Quick and Tasty Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southern / Cajun

Description

Looking for a bold, satisfying dish that comes together fast? This Quick and Tasty Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is the perfect one-skillet meal, blending seasoned beef, colorful veggies, fluffy rice, and Cajun spices into a comforting Southern classic. Ideal for an easy dinner, quick lunch, or hearty weeknight meal, it's a great way to use leftover rice and pack in flavor with minimal prep. Whether you're new to dirty rice or already a fan, this easy recipe delivers every time—and it reheats like a dream for leftovers. Perfect for your list of dinner ideas, food ideas, or even a meal prep favorite!


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef

3 cups cooked white rice

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 green onions, sliced

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

¼ cup chicken or beef broth (optional)


Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.

2. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add olive oil or butter, then sauté the onion and bell peppers for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

3. Return the beef to the skillet. Add Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and any optional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

4. Fold in the cooked rice and mix until fully combined. If too dry, add a bit of broth (2–3 tablespoons). Stir gently to heat everything through.

5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat, then garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!


Notes

Use cold, day-old rice for best texture—it won’t turn mushy when mixed in.

Customize it with ground turkey, sausage, or a vegetarian substitute to fit your needs.

Want extra kick? Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce before serving.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: dirty rice, quick dinner, Cajun rice, one-pan meal, easy recipe