Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further than this delicious recipe for Dirty Rice with Ground Beef! This classic dish is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a truly satisfying and healthy dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience a taste of authentic Cajun flavor right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking of the vegetables and meat.
Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Brown the Beef: Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking the beef into smaller pieces, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for a leaner, healthier dish.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade Dirty Rice!
Cooking Tips for the Best Dirty Rice:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder dish, use less; for extra heat, add more!
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, carrots, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
- Protein options: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a leaner alternative.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for doneness before serving.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Delicious Variations:
- Chicken Dirty Rice: Substitute cooked shredded chicken for the ground beef.
- Vegetarian Dirty Rice: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables like chickpeas or black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Dirty Rice: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy and flavorful Dirty Rice with Ground Beef recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!