What makes dirty rice "dirty"?

Traditional dirty rice gets its characteristic "dirty" appearance from chicken livers that are ground and cooked with the rice. This shortcut version achieves a similar look and hearty flavor using ground beef and sausage instead, making it more approachable for those who don't enjoy organ meats.

Can I use regular white rice instead of converted/parboiled rice?

While you technically can, I strongly recommend sticking with converted or parboiled rice. Regular white rice absorbs liquid differently and tends to become mushy in this preparation. If you must substitute, you'll need to adjust the liquid amount and cooking time – use about 1/2 cup less broth and check for doneness earlier.

How spicy is this dish, and how can I adjust the heat level?

As written, this recipe has a mild to medium heat level that most people find enjoyable. To increase spiciness, add more Creole seasoning, incorporate diced jalapeños, or use hot sausage instead of regular. To decrease heat, use less Creole seasoning and ensure you're using a mild breakfast sausage.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the meats with a combination of mushrooms (chopped fine) and plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and olive oil instead of bacon grease. The texture will be different, but you'll still get a flavorful dish with similar seasonings.

Shortcut Dirty Rice Recipe

Name: Shortcut Dirty Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon bacon grease (or another neutral oil like vegetable oil); 1 large yellow onion (diced – about 2 cups); 1 large green bell pepper (seeded and diced – about 1 cup); 2 ribs celery (diced – about 1/2 cup); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 pound ground sausage (like Jimmy Dean or Tennessee Pride); 1 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (or more to taste); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 2 cups converted or parboiled rice; 3 1/2 cups beef broth; 3 green onions (sliced thin)

Description

Shortcut Dirty Rice is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines ground beef, sausage, veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s an easier version of the classic Louisiana dish and comes together in just under an hour. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers comforting Southern flavors with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 tablespoon bacon grease (or another neutral oil like vegetable oil)
1 large yellow onion (diced – about 2 cups)
1 large green bell pepper (seeded and diced – about 1 cup)
2 ribs celery (diced – about 1/2 cup)
2 cloves garlic (minced)

Proteins

1 pound lean ground beef
1 pound ground sausage (like Jimmy Dean or Tennessee Pride)

Seasoning

1 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)

Rice and Broth

2 cups converted or parboiled rice
3 1/2 cups beef broth

Garnish

3 green onions (sliced thin)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat the Oil
Heat the bacon grease (or neutral oil) in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium heat. The oil will act as the base for sautéing the vegetables and building flavor.
Cook the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook while stirring frequently until the onions turn translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
Brown the Meat
Add the lean ground beef and ground sausage to the skillet. Lightly season the meat with Creole or Cajun seasoning. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook while breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Continue until the meat is browned, approximately 8 minutes. If desired, drain the excess fat.
Toast the Rice
Add the uncooked converted rice to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the meat and vegetables. Toast the rice by stirring frequently to coat it in the rendered fats for about 5 minutes.
Incorporate the Broth
Slowly pour in the beef broth. Add salt and pepper to taste and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet or dutch oven tightly, and cook for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the rice does not stick, and cook until the rice is tender and fluffy.
Season and Garnish
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more Creole seasoning, salt, or pepper if needed. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

Type of Rice: Using converted or parboiled rice ensures that the texture remains firm and prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Avoid using regular long-grain rice, as it may become too soft.
Vegetable Options: You can add additional veggies like diced tomatoes or mushrooms for added flavor.
Make it Spicy: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Substitutions: Turkey sausage or plant-based ground meat can be used as alternatives for a leaner or vegetarian option.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 510
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 1080mg
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 23g
Cholesterol: 75mg