Get ready to spice up your meals with our delicious collection of dirty rice recipes! Dirty rice is a staple dish in many Southern cuisines, and when you add a kick of heat, it becomes a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. From classic Cajun dishes to spicy twists and creative variations, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion.
From hearty stews and casseroles to quick weeknight meals, our dirty rice recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal routine. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking for a comforting side dish, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let the flavors of these 18 spicy dirty rice recipes ignite your taste buds!
Cajun Dirty Rice with Andouille Sausage
Get ready for a flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that combines the bold spices of Cajun cuisine with the richness of andouille sausage. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
6. Add rice to skillet; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
7. Gradually add chicken broth; bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low; cover skillet.
9. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
10. Fluff rice with a fork; stir in cooked sausage.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Chicken Dirty Rice
This bold and flavorful dish is a twist on the classic dirty rice, adding spicy chicken for an extra kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Serve the spicy chicken over the prepared dirty rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Dirty Rice with Black Beans
A twist on a classic Cajun dish, this vegetarian version swaps out the meat for nutritious black beans and adds some extra flavor from tomatoes and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add the water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole Dirty Rice with Shrimp
Dirty rice is a classic Creole dish that’s both flavorful and filling. This shrimp-packed version adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir until combined with the shrimp mixture.
6. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly, until the rice is well coated.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Pork Dirty Rice
Get ready for a hearty twist on the classic dirty rice dish! This recipe combines ground beef and pork with savory spices and herbs to create a flavorful one-pot wonder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and pork, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dirty Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful, nutritious meal with this easy recipe! A twist on the classic jambalaya, these stuffed peppers combine cooked rice, savory spices, and your choice of protein.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked dirty rice (see note)
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey, cooked and crumbled
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef or turkey, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican-Inspired Dirty Rice with Chorizo
A twist on the classic dirty rice, this recipe combines Spanish chorizo sausage with Mexican flavors and spices for a bold and savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 lb Spanish chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chorizo sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chorizo from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jambalaya-Style Dirty Rice
This hearty dish combines the flavors of jambalaya with the comfort of dirty rice, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sausage mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until rice is lightly toasted.
6. Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
7. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
8. Stir in paprika; season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Dirty Rice Casserole with Cheese
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of dirty rice with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice and diced tomatoes.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
8. Beat egg in a small bowl and brush edges of casserole with egg wash.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Dirty Rice with Ground Turkey
Spicy Dirty Rice with Ground Turkey Recipe
This hearty dish combines spicy sausage, ground turkey, and flavorful rice to create a satisfying one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked sausage (such as Andouille or Chorizo), crumbled
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the cooked sausage, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the cooked rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of hot sauce if desired.
Louisiana-Style Dirty Rice with Chicken Livers
A classic Southern dish that’s hearty and flavorful, Louisiana-Style Dirty Rice is a staple of Cajun cuisine. This recipe adds the richness of chicken livers to create a truly indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless chicken livers, chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped chicken livers and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the liver mixture.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
8. Gradually add the chicken broth to the skillet, stirring constantly.
9. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dirty Rice with Smoked Sausage and Okra
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic dirty rice! This recipe combines the savory taste of smoked sausage, the creaminess of okra, and the spices of traditional Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh okra
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the okra to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Stir in the cooked sausage, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine the cooked rice with the sausage mixture and stir-fry until well combined.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick and Easy Dirty Rice with Bacon
Get a delicious and satisfying side dish on the table in just minutes! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the rice and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. While the rice cooks, cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
4. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. In the same skillet, add the butter to melt. Stir in the cooked bacon bits.
6. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and stir in the bacon-butter mixture. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern-Style Dirty Rice with Ham
A classic Southern comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe is a staple at many family gatherings and church potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked ham and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the ham mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Dirty Rice with Crawfish and Corn
A twist on the classic Cajun dish, this recipe combines spicy dirty rice with succulent crawfish and sweet corn for a flavorful one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound crawfish tails, thawed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir 1 minute.
4. Add crawfish and corn; stir to combine.
5. Serve dirty rice mixture on top of cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Dirty Rice with Ground Beef
This classic Southern dish is a comforting staple that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With ground beef, rice, and spices all cooked together in one pot, it’s the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Dirty Rice with Jalapeños and Cilantro
This bold and flavorful dish is a spicy twist on traditional dirty rice, adding a kick from jalapeños and freshness from cilantro. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed cooked meats (sausage, chicken, beef)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cooked meats, jalapeño, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add rice and stir to coat with the meat mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Stir in soy sauce, tomato paste, and chopped cilantro.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dirty Rice with Roasted Vegetables
A twist on traditional dirty rice, this recipe adds roasted vegetables to create a hearty and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in peas and carrots, roasted vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the vegetable mixture.
7. Dot the top of the dirty rice with butter.
Cooking Time:
– Roasted vegetables: 20-25 minutes
– Rice preparation: 15-20 minutes
– Total cooking time: 35-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 delicious dirty rice recipes! From classic Cajun and Creole dishes to international twists like Mexican-inspired chorizo and Jambalaya-style dirty rice, there’s something for every occasion. Try adding smoky sausage and okra, or spicy jalapeños and cilantro for an extra kick. This collection of dirty rice recipes is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and special events. Whether you’re a seasoned Southern cook or just looking to mix things up in the kitchen, these flavorful dishes are sure to become new favorites.
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