This Shrimp Dirty Rice is a flavorful and hearty dish inspired by classic Cajun and Creole cuisine. Packed with seasoned shrimp, savory ground meats, and perfectly cooked rice, this recipe is a delicious twist on traditional dirty rice. The rich blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes it a standout dish for any occasion!
📋 Ingredients
- 1 lb hamburger meat
- 1 lb ground pork sausage
- 10–12 shrimp, tail off and deveined
- 4 cups cooked rice (white or brown rice works)
- 2 cups broth (use Better Than Bouillon chicken base or your preferred broth)
- 1.5 cups mixed onions and bell peppers, chopped (about 1 onion + 1 bell pepper)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil , divided
- 1 tsp seafood seasoning (e.g., Old Bay or your favorite blend)
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp black pepper , plus more to taste
- ½ tsp salt , plus more to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them generously with seafood seasoning . Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat .
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side , until they curl into a “C” shape and turn pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Meats
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat .
- Add the hamburger meat and ground pork sausage . Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until it begins to brown, about 5–7 minutes .
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onions , bell peppers , and minced garlic to the skillet with the meats. Cook for an additional 5 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the meat is fully browned.
Step 5: Add Seasonings
- Stir in the oregano , thyme , garlic powder , onion powder , chili powder , black pepper , salt , and cayenne pepper . Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with the spices.
Step 6: Thicken the Mixture
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the flour slightly.
- Gradually add the broth , stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes , allowing it to thicken.
Step 7: Combine with Rice
- Stir in the cooked rice , mixing thoroughly to combine. Simmer for another 5 minutes , ensuring the flavors meld together.
Step 8: Add the Shrimp
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently folding them into the rice and meat mixture. Cook for 2–3 minutes , just until everything is heated through.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Rice Prep: Use leftover cooked rice or prepare it ahead of time. Avoid using freshly cooked rice, as it can become mushy when combined with the broth.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce for extra heat.
- Shrimp Size: Use medium or large shrimp for best results. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so cook just until pink and opaque.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Shrimp Dirty Rice is a bold and satisfying dish that combines the richness of ground meats with the delicate sweetness of shrimp and the earthy flavors of Cajun spices. The creamy texture of the rice, paired with the savory broth and tender shrimp, creates a comforting yet exciting meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a hearty weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into this flavorful dish and let it become a staple in your kitchen!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~500 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and optional ingredients)
