Louisiana Dirty Rice
A slew of savory seasonings upgrades simple white rice and ground beef in this Southern-inspired dish.
Ingredients
- 1 bag Success® White Rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 celery, diced
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Better set the table! This authentic Louisiana Dirty Rice packs a flavor punch but comes together in mere minutes.
Step 1
Prepare rice according to package directions, replacing water with chicken broth.
Step 2
Heat a deep skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5 minutes until cooked through. While cooking, use a wooden spoon to stir and break up the meat.
Step 3
Add celery, bell pepper, onion, garlic and Cajun seasoning and cook for 5 minutes, until vegetables are softened.
Step 4
Mix in rice and stir until fully combined. Garnish with parsley.
Recipe Tip
Add your favorite hot sauce to give this dish more spice.
The Story Behind Louisiana Dirty Rice
Dirty Rice is one of those iconic Louisiana dishes that tells a story with every bite. Born from humble beginnings, it’s a meal that reflects the creativity, resilience, and resourcefulness of Southern cooks. Traditionally made from pantry staples and whatever meats were on hand, dirty rice became a flavorful way to stretch simple ingredients into something deeply satisfying.
The name “dirty rice” comes from the dish’s signature look — the white grains turn a rich, speckled brown after being cooked with browned meat, aromatics, and spices. The holy trinity of Louisiana cooking — onion, bell pepper, and celery — forms the backbone of its flavor, while Cajun seasoning ties everything together with a bold, smoky kick.
In its earliest forms, traditional dirty rice often included chicken livers or giblets, which added depth and richness. Over time, as the dish spread beyond home kitchens and family gatherings, cooks across the South began adapting it to their own tastes — swapping in ground beef, pork, or sausage for a simpler, equally delicious version.
Today, dirty rice remains a comfort food classic — a one-pan wonder that brings people together with its down-home flavor and effortless preparation. Whether you keep it traditional or make it your own, this dish carries the soul of Louisiana in every spoonful.
