Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is a hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Made with tender rice, savory ground beef, and aromatic vegetables, this Southern-inspired classic delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

The beauty of dirty rice lies in its simplicity—you only need a handful of everyday ingredients, and it comes together quickly for a satisfying dinner. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. You can keep it simple with beef and veggies or add extras like sausage, shrimp, or beans to make it your own.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this dirty rice recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Serving Ideas
Pair your Dirty Rice with Ground Beef with these tasty sides and garnishes to create a complete meal:
- Cornbread – A classic Southern pairing; the sweet cornbread balances the savory rice perfectly.
- Steamed Veggies – Green beans, carrots, or broccoli add freshness and nutrition.
- Fried Plantains – A tropical twist with sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Mixed Green Salad – Light and crisp to balance the richness of the rice.
- Hot Sauce or Cajun Seasoning – Perfect for spice lovers who want an extra kick.
- Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickled okra, onions, or cucumbers cut through the richness.
- Fresh Herbs – Parsley, cilantro, or green onions brighten the dish.
- Chopped Tomatoes or Salsa – A juicy, refreshing topping.
- Creole Sauce or Gravy – For an indulgent, saucy finish.
You can enjoy this dish as a main course or serve it as a side with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage.
Cooking Tips for the Best Dirty Rice
- Use Lean Ground Beef – Keeps the dish flavorful but not greasy. Drain any excess fat.
- Season Generously – Paprika, thyme, and cayenne are key to bold, authentic flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables First – Softens them and deepens the flavor.
- Toast the Rice – Stirring rice with the beef and veggies before adding broth adds nuttiness.
- Cook Rice in Broth – Chicken broth (or beef/vegetable broth) makes the rice richer and more savory.
- Simmer Gently – Let the rice absorb the flavors slowly for the best texture.
- Adjust Spice to Taste – Add more cayenne or hot sauce if you like it spicier.
- Rest Before Serving – Letting it sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to come together.
- Make Ahead Friendly – Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat—they taste even better the next day.
Dirty Rice with Ground Beef Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup white rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice
- Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.
- In a medium pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork.
- Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Sauté the Veggies
- Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Season
- Stir in paprika, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes more.
- Combine Rice & Beef Mixture
- Add cooked rice to the skillet. Stir until evenly coated and well mixed.
- Finish & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with green onions and parsley.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Final Touch
This Dirty Rice with Ground Beef is bold, savory, and satisfying—everything you want in a quick, comforting meal. It’s versatile enough for a busy weeknight dinner yet flavorful enough for entertaining.
Make it once, and it’s bound to be a repeat recipe in your kitchen!