Authentic Cajun Dirty Rice Recipe – A Flavor-Packed Southern

Cajun Dirty Rice – Cajun Dirty Rice is a beloved Southern dish that perfectly embodies the rich, spicy, and soulful flavors of Louisiana cuisine. This hearty one-pot meal gets its name from the “dirty” appearance the rice takes on when cooked with finely chopped chicken livers, ground meat, and aromatic vegetables. Deeply seasoned with Cajun spices, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a flavorful side.

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Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Active Time: 35 minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes

Cuisines: Cajun / Southern American

Course: Main Course / Side Dish

Servings: 6

Calories: 410 kcal per serving

Total Time: 55 minutes

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven

• Wooden spoon

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Knife and cutting board

• Mixing bowl

• Rice cooker or saucepan (if cooking rice separately)

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or bacon fat

• ½ pound ground beef or pork

• ½ cup finely chopped chicken livers (optional for authentic flavor)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1 ½ cups chicken broth

• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions until tender and fluffy. Set aside and keep warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat vegetable oil or bacon fat in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or pork) and chicken livers if using. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 6–8 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery — the classic Cajun “holy trinity.” Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly so that the spices coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.

Tips for the Best Cajun Dirty Rice

• For Authentic Flavor: Don’t skip the chicken livers — they give the dish its classic earthy depth. If you’re not a fan, you can reduce the amount or replace them with finely chopped mushrooms for a similar texture.

• Use Day-Old Rice: If you have leftover rice, it absorbs flavors better and gives a slightly firmer texture.

• Adjust the Heat: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce if you prefer spicier rice.

• Add Protein Variety: You can substitute sausage or andouille for the ground meat for a smokier taste.

Conclusion

Cajun Dirty Rice is the heart and soul of Louisiana comfort food — bold, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Every spoonful delivers a perfect balance of savory meat, aromatic vegetables, and spiced rice, creating a dish that’s both rustic and rich in character.