If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, spicy, and bursting with Southern charm, you’re in the right place. Shrimp Dirty Rice is one of those comforting, flavor-loaded meals that feels like a warm Louisiana hug in every bite.

This classic Cajun dish is anything but bland—it’s packed with a mix of seasoned ground beef, sausage, shrimp, and aromatic vegetables, all blended together with fluffy rice and a thick, savory gravy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard get-together, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Loaded with Flavor: A mix of meats, bold seasonings, and fresh vegetables make this dish anything but boring.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or add more veggies to make it your own.

Let’s dive right in and start making this mouthwatering Shrimp Dirty Rice!

Getting Started – Preparing the Shrimp & Cooking the Meat

Gathering the Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s round up everything we’ll need for this bold and delicious dish.

For the Protein

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground sausage
• 10–12 shrimp, tails off and deveined
• 1 tsp seafood seasoning

For the Rice and Sauce

• 4 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups broth (Better Than Bouillon chicken broth recommended)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

For the Vegetables

• 1.5 cups mixed onions and bell peppers, chopped
• 3 tsp minced garlic

For the Seasoning

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp salt (more to taste)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (for heat)

Step 1: Season & Cook the Shrimp

The shrimp add a delicious seafood twist to this Dirty Rice, bringing in a light, juicy contrast to the heavier meats.

1. Season the shrimp: In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with the seafood seasoning. This adds that extra punch of Cajun flavor.
2. Sear the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side: You’ll know the shrimp are ready when they turn a beautiful pink color and curl into a “C” shape.
4. Remove and set aside: Transfer the shrimp to a plate so they don’t overcook while we prep the rest of the dish.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp! If they start curling into an “O” shape instead of a “C,” they’re becoming tough.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef & Sausage

Next, we’re bringing in the smoky richness of beef. This combination creates a deep, bold flavor that makes Dirty Rice so iconic.

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Brown the meat: Add the ground beef and sausage, breaking them apart with a spoon as they cook.
3. Cook until fully browned: Stir occasionally, letting the meat develop a little crust for even more flavor.
4. Drain excess grease: If needed, drain off any excess fat, but leave a little for richness.

Pro Tip: Using both ground beef and sausage adds complexity to the dish, but you can swap one out for turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter version.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables & Seasoning

Now, it’s time to build our flavor base with aromatic vegetables and bold Cajun spices.

1. Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat.
2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
3. Sprinkle in the seasoning: Add the oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to the mix.
4. Stir well to coat everything in the aromatic spices.

Pro Tip: This step is where the magic happens. Cooking the spices with the meat and vegetables enhances their flavors and makes them more vibrant.

Step 4: Thickening the Sauce with Flour & Broth

The sauce is what makes this Shrimp Dirty Rice so rich and flavorful. We’ll use flour to create a roux, then add broth for a deep, velvety finish.

How to Make the Sauce:

1. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the meat and veggie mixture in the skillet.
2. Stir constantly for about a minute to prevent clumps from forming. The flour will absorb the fat and help create a thickened sauce.
3. Slowly pour in 2 cups of broth, stirring as you go. Using a whisk can help break up any lumps.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and develop a deep, rich flavor.

Pro Tip: Using a high-quality broth, like Better Than Bouillon chicken broth, adds a deeper savory taste. You can also substitute beef broth for an even richer sauce.

Step 5: Adding the Rice & Shrimp for Maximum Flavor

This is the moment where everything comes together into a cohesive, flavorful dish. We’re now going to mix in our rice and reintroduce the shrimp to soak up all those delicious spices.

How to Combine Everything:

1. Add 4 cups of cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to evenly distribute the sauce and coat each grain with flavor.
2. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all the seasonings and juices.
3. Return the shrimp to the skillet, folding them into the mixture gently.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning—add more salt, black pepper, or cayenne for extra heat if needed.

Pro Tip: If the rice seems dry, add a little more broth, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish Like a Pro

Now that our Shrimp Dirty Rice is ready, it’s time to serve it up and enjoy!

How to Plate It Perfectly:

• Spoon the rice onto plates or into bowls, making sure each serving gets a good mix of shrimp, meat, and veggies.
• Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish.
• For an extra kick, serve with a side of hot sauce (Louisiana-style, of course!).
• Pair with cornbread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad to round out the meal.

Pro Tip: Dirty Rice tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Bonus Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, let’s explore some fun ways to customize it!

Want It Spicier?

• Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the skillet.
• Stir in diced jalapeños with the bell peppers.
• Use spicy sausage instead of mild sausage.

Want More Shrimp?

• Double the shrimp for a seafood-packed version!
• Use jumbo shrimp instead of medium for extra meatiness.

Need More Veggies?

• Add chopped celery, diced carrots, or even mushrooms.
• Stir in spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.

Want a Different Protein?

• Swap out ground beef for chicken, turkey, or even crumbled tofu for a lighter version.
• Add smoked andouille sausage for an even more authentic Cajun touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of rice should I use for Dirty Rice?

Traditional Dirty Rice is made with long-grain white rice because it’s light, fluffy, and absorbs flavors beautifully. However, you can also use brown rice for a nuttier taste or jasmine rice for a slightly fragrant touch.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Shrimp Dirty Rice actually tastes even better the next day because the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it properly and reheat it (more on that below).

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by running them under cold water or letting them sit in the fridge overnight. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to prevent excess water from making the dish soggy.

4. What if I don’t have sausage?

• Chicken sausage – for a leaner version
• Smoked andouille sausage – for a spicier, more authentic Cajun twist
• Turkey sausage – for a lower-fat alternative

5. How do I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder version:

• Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper
• Use a mild sausage instead of a spicy one
• Cut back on the black pepper and chili powder
• Add a little extra broth or a drizzle of cream at the end to soften the spice

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Dirty Rice is super versatile. Some great veggie additions include:

• Celery (a must-have in authentic Cajun cooking)
• Carrots (for a hint of sweetness)
• Mushrooms (to add an earthy depth)
• Spinach or kale (for an extra nutritional boost)

7. How do I store leftovers?

Let the rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in sealed freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Now that you’ve got leftovers (if you’re lucky!), here’s how to keep them fresh and reheat them perfectly.

How to Store Dirty Rice:

• In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in portioned-out freezer bags.

How to Reheat Dirty Rice:

• On the stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• In the microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, add a tablespoon of water or broth, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• In the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of broth when reheating to keep the rice moist and prevent it from drying out.

Final Thoughts – Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Dirty Rice

Shrimp Dirty Rice is more than just a meal—it’s a bold, comforting dish that brings warmth and Southern flair to your table. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner, a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and versatility.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper:

• Big, bold flavors from Cajun spices, shrimp, and sausage
• One-pot wonder – minimal cleanup, maximum taste
• Versatile – customize it with different proteins, veggies, and spice levels
• Great for leftovers – tastes even better the next day!

Now go ahead, grab a spoon, and dig into that bowl of flavor-packed Cajun goodness!

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