If you’re looking for a hearty dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than dirty rice with ground beef. This Southern classic is a one-pot wonder, featuring seasoned ground beef mixed with rice, vegetables, and spices. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the rice and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option. Additionally, brown rice can be used instead of white rice, though cooking times may vary. Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Dirty rice pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple green salad. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats and can be topped with hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the rice can lead to mushiness; keep an eye on it!
- Not allowing the dish to rest after cooking can result in unfluffy rice.
- Using too much salt in the broth may make the dish overly salty.
- Forgetting to drain the beef can leave the dish greasy.
- Not measuring the broth accurately can affect the rice texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use day-old rice for better texture.
- Experiment with different spices for a unique flavor profile.
- Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Chop vegetables finely for even cooking.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth and cooking duration accordingly.
Is dirty rice spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the Cajun seasoning used. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the seasoning or opt for a non-spicy blend.
Can I add other proteins to this dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in sausage, chicken, or even shrimp to create a delicious and hearty variation of dirty rice.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.
What can I serve with dirty rice?
Dirty rice pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables, making it a versatile side for any meal.
Conclusion
Dirty rice with ground beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its rich blend of spices and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious recipe for a satisfying meal any night of the week.
Dirty Rice With Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the rice and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in green onions before serving.