One Pot Dirty Rice Meal

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Dive into a bowl of dirty rice, where tender ground beef and sausage mingle with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and celery. Infused with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and a hint of onion powder, every bite carries a satisfying, peppery warmth. The rice comes together effortlessly in one skillet, soaking up rich chicken broth and savory meat juices. This dish captures the spirit of southern comfort cooking—robust, hearty, and deeply flavorful. Serve hot for a weeknight meal that’s both filling and fuss-free, offering layers of texture from the vegetables and a perfect blend of spice throughout.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Thu, 03 Jul 2025 18:18:22 GMT
A pan of rice with meat and vegetables. Save
A pan of rice with meat and vegetables. | lilicooks.com

One Pot Dirty Rice always makes me think of easy weeknight dinners when everyone is craving something hearty but I am not up for lots of cleanup. This version packs in bold Cajun flavors layers of tender veggies and perfectly seasoned meat all in one skillet. You get the taste of southern comfort food with minimal fuss and it is always a crowd pleaser at my table.

My first try at dirty rice happened during a busy school night when I had no plan and a handful of random ingredients. It quickly became a family request and now it is my secret weapon when I want dinner to feel like a treat.

Ingredients

  • Butter: gives richness and helps veggies saute quickly I like to use unsalted for better control of seasoning
  • Yellow onion: brings a mellow sweetness choose firm bulbs with shiny skin
  • Celery stalks: add crisp texture and savory flavor make sure they are bright and snap clean
  • Bell peppers: create color and fresh flavor go for red or yellow to balance the spice
  • Ground beef: creates a hearty base pick lean if you like less grease
  • Ground pork sausage: offers depth and extra seasoning mild or spicy depending on your family’s taste
  • Cajun seasoning: is the star for authentic flavor check labels for added salt if you want to control sodium
  • Onion powder: fortifies the aromatic layer always a pantry favorite
  • Paprika: gives a smoky edge opt for sweet or smoked based on your mood
  • Salt and black pepper: keep flavors bold grind fresh for the best pop
  • Minute rice: makes this quick and easy since it cooks so fast always check for whole grains if you prefer more texture
  • Chicken broth: ensures every grain is flavorful low sodium lets you taste everything else

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Veggies:
Dice bell peppers onions and celery finely this helps them cook evenly and blend into the rice for classic dirty rice texture
Sauté the Base:
In a large skillet set over medium high heat melt the butter until bubbling then add veggies Cook stirring regularly for about eight minutes until everything is soft and aromatic This step is important for sweetening the onions and building the base flavor
Brown the Meats:
Add the ground beef and ground sausage to the softened veggies Break apart with a spatula and cook until all the pink disappears This is when the flavors lock in Drain any excess grease for a lighter dish
Season Generously:
Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning onion powder paprika salt and plenty of black pepper Stir well so spices coat all the meat and veg Cook for one minute so the spices bloom and taste extra deep
Add Rice and Broth:
Pour in the minute rice and chicken broth Stir to combine thoroughly then cover with a lid. This traps steam and helps the rice cook through without getting mushy
Simmer to Finish:
Reduce heat and bring everything to a light simmer Stir every so often to prevent sticking Cook until the broth is absorbed and rice is tender Check around 10 to 12 minutes to avoid overcooking
Serve:
Fluff the rice with a fork then dish up hot straight from the skillet This is best served fresh and smells incredible
A bowl of rice with peppers and meat. Save
A bowl of rice with peppers and meat. | lilicooks.com

Hands down my favorite part is the Cajun spice it lifts the whole dish and reminds me of visiting New Orleans with my sister. One bite and it is a memory in a bowl.

Storage Tips

Dirty rice stores well in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. It is great for meal prep since the flavors get even deeper overnight. Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of extra broth if the rice starts to dry out.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap ground turkey for the beef or a spicy Italian sausage if you want more kick. If you love heat try a touch of cayenne or fresh jalapeno in with the peppers. You can use leftover cooked rice in a pinch just reduce the broth and simmer to combine all the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious straight from the pan but also pairs well with a simple green salad or some cornbread for classic southern comfort. I sometimes serve it alongside roasted okra or a spoonful of tangy coleslaw for contrast.

Cultural Context

Dirty rice has deep roots in Louisiana Creole and Cajun cooking where cooks used whatever meat and vegetables they had on hand and stretched it into filling meals. Every family has a twist and I love that you can taste a bit of history in every bite.

A close up of a dish of rice and meat. Save
A close up of a dish of rice and meat. | lilicooks.com

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use minute rice as specified and maintain a gentle simmer. Avoid over-stirring and cook only until the broth is absorbed for best texture.

→ Can I substitute the ground pork sausage?

Yes, you can use smoked sausage, chicken sausage, or leave it out for a lighter version. Adjust seasoning to taste.

→ What vegetables work best in dirty rice?

Onions, celery, and bell peppers provide classic flavor. You can also add diced carrots or green onions for extra color and taste.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The Cajun seasoning gives it a mild heat. Add more Cajun spice or a pinch of cayenne if you prefer extra kick.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Absolutely! Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist, or microwave until warmed through.

→ What pairs well with dirty rice?

This dish goes well with cornbread, sautéed greens, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

One Pot Dirty Rice

Hearty rice with ground meat, peppers, and Cajun spices cooked in one skillet for rich, savory flavors.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
25 min
Overall Time
40 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: Southern

Output: 5 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 5 tablespoons butter
02 1/2 yellow onion, diced
03 3 celery stalks, diced
04 2 bell peppers, diced
05 1 pound ground beef
06 1 pound ground pork sausage
07 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
08 1 teaspoon onion powder
09 1/2 teaspoon paprika
10 Salt to taste
11 Black pepper to taste
12 2 cups minute rice
13 2 cups chicken broth

Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the diced onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 7-8 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 02

Add the ground beef and sausage to the skillet. Cook until no pink is visible in the meat, then drain off any excess grease.

Step 03

Season the meat mixture with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Add the minute rice and chicken broth. Stir to combine and cover with a lid.

Step 04

Bring the mixture to a light simmer, stir occasionally, and cook until all the broth has been absorbed and the rice is fully cooked. Serve and enjoy.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Cooking spoon
  • Kitchen knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Dairy (butter)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 320.5
  • Fats: 15.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25.7 g
  • Proteins: 19.1 g