Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

There’s something about Dirty Rice with Ground Beef that makes it feel like home. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in comfort while delivering bold, savory flavors. Trust me, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner, a weeknight meal, or even bringing it to a potluck. The hearty combination of ground beef, spices, and vegetables will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. It’s the perfect balance of rich flavors and just the right amount of spice, making every bite a little more irresistible than the last.

Why You’ll Love Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

There are so many reasons this dish is a favorite:

Quick and Easy:

You can have this flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes! The recipe is simple, and everything cooks in one pan—hello, less cleanup!

Bold and Flavorful:

The combination of savory ground beef, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and spices creates a deep, smoky flavor that’s satisfying and mouthwatering. It’s a simple dish that tastes so much more complex than it actually is.

Versatile:

Serve it as a main course or a side dish. Dirty rice can be paired with grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp, or it can stand alone. It’s a fantastic option for those busy nights when you need a meal that satisfies.

Budget-Friendly:

Using basic ingredients like ground beef, rice, and a handful of spices, this dish is perfect for when you’re looking to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.

Family-Friendly:

The spices are adjustable, so you can make it as mild or as spicy as you want. Plus, it’s packed with vegetables, which makes it a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients for picky eaters.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this savory, flavorful dirty rice:

For the Rice:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, if preferred)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (green or red)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and comforting dish:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and the beef mixture is well-coated.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s well-mixed with the beef and vegetable mixture. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

Let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Don’t stir the rice during cooking to avoid it becoming mushy. If needed, check the rice halfway through and add a bit more broth if it looks dry.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 28g
Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 30% of the Daily Value
Calcium: 4% of the Daily Value
Iron: 15% of the Daily Value

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

Dirty rice is great on its own, but you can elevate the meal with these serving suggestions:

With a Side Salad:

Pair your dirty rice with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the rich, savory flavors of the rice.

With Grilled Meat:

Serve the dirty rice as a side to grilled meats like chicken, pork chops, or steak. The rice complements grilled dishes wonderfully, adding extra flavor to your meal.

With Sautéed Veggies:

To round out the meal, serve the dirty rice with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans. This adds a boost of color and nutrition.

As a Wrap:

Spoon the dirty rice into tortillas and serve as a wrap for a fun, handheld meal. Top with sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make this dirty rice recipe your own:

Add More Veggies:

Feel free to add more vegetables to the rice, like carrots, celery, or peas. These veggies will enhance the texture and flavor while adding extra nutrients.

Make It Spicy:

If you love spice, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños to the mix. For an extra kick, top with hot sauce before serving.

Make It in Advance:

This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also reheats beautifully in the microwave, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Swap the Meat:

You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile. Each will bring a slightly different taste but will still work wonderfully in the recipe.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A1: Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and use more liquid. Brown rice takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so be sure to check it during cooking.

Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?

A2: Absolutely! You can freeze dirty rice for up to 3 months. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat it thoroughly when ready to eat.

Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A3: Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or beans to fill the void.

Q4: Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

A4: Yes! Chicken broth is a great substitute for beef broth. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still work perfectly in this recipe.

Q5: How can I make the rice fluffier?

A5: To make the rice fluffier, avoid stirring it during the cooking process. Let it steam in the covered skillet, which helps the rice stay fluffy and separate.

Q6: Can I make this dish in advance?

A6: Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just cook the rice and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Q7: How do I make it spicier?

A7: If you want more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the dish. You can also top it with hot sauce or salsa when serving.

Q8: What sides pair well with dirty rice?

A8: Some great sides include sautéed greens, a fresh green salad, cornbread, or even some crispy fried chicken.

Q9: Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

A9: You can use instant rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid. Instant rice cooks much quicker, so make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

Q10: Can I make this dish spicy without using cayenne pepper?

A10: Yes! You can add heat with diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or even a spicy hot sauce of your choice.

Conclusion

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is one of those dishes that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with the kind of comforting goodness that makes every bite feel like home. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers every time. With its rich combination of spices, tender beef, and fluffy rice, it’s a dish that’s sure to please all kinds of palates. Plus, it’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy!

So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and watch how quickly this delicious meal becomes a family favorite. I promise, you’re going to love it! Happy cooking!

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