Go Back
A bowl of Louisiana Dirty Rice garnished with herbs, showcasing its rich textures and flavors.

Louisiana Dirty Rice

A classic Cajun dish full of bold flavors, Louisiana Dirty Rice features ground meat, vegetables, and spices mixed with fluffy rice. Rich, spicy, and savory, it’s perfect as a main course or a hearty side dish for Southern-inspired meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ½ lb 225 g ground beef
  • ½ lb 225 g ground pork or sausage
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Large pot for cooking rice
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Cook the rice:
  2. In a pot, bring chicken broth or water to a boil.
  3. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
  4. Cook the meat and vegetables:
  5. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  6. Add ground beef and pork (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  7. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
  8. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
  9. Season and combine:
  10. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  11. Add cooked rice to the skillet and mix thoroughly until evenly combined and heated through.
  12. Serve:
  13. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.
  14. Serve hot as a main dish or alongside fried chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

For authentic flavor, use Andouille sausage.
Adjust the cayenne and Cajun seasoning to your preferred heat level.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can be made in advance and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.