irty Rice with Ground Beef is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. Inspired by classic Southern cuisine, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a taste of comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Comes together in just 35 minutes with simple ingredients.
Packed with Flavor: A perfect blend of spices and aromatics for bold, savory taste.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or a side for larger meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs ground beef
1 cup white rice (long grain or jasmine)
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining oil. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Season and Combine:
- Stir in paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well with the vegetables.
Cook the Rice:
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth and return the ground beef to the pan. Stir to combine.
Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Finish and Serve:
- Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in chopped green onions and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with black beans or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Rice Alternatives: Try brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist (adjust cooking time accordingly).

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the rice package instructions.

2. What type of bell pepper is best?

Green bell peppers are traditional for this recipe, but you can use red, yellow, or orange for a sweeter flavor.

3. How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor without heat.

4. Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, stir in pre-cooked rice after sautéing the vegetables, and reduce the broth amount.

5. What sides pair well with dirty rice?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, collard greens, or a fresh green salad.

6. Can I cook this in a rice cooker?

Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a rice cooker and cook according to its settings.

7. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Use a non-stick skillet and ensure there’s enough liquid for the rice to absorb during cooking.

8. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Diced zucchini, carrots, or peas make great additions.

9. Is dirty rice gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients. Ensure your skillet or pot is large enough to accommodate the larger quantity.

Conclusion

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its savory spices, tender beef, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a comforting Southern classic that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of homemade comfort food!