Scale

1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and sausage)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper, finely chopped (green or red)

2 celery stalks, finely chopped

3–4 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ cups long grain white rice (uncooked)

3 ¼ cups beef or chicken broth

2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

1 tsp dried thyme

1 bay leaf (optional)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

1 tbsp oil or butter (optional, for richness)

Brown the meat:

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.

Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté the vegetables:

Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Add rice & spices:

Stir in uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaf. Toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring often.

Add broth & simmer:

Pour in broth, stir, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Rest & fluff:

Turn off heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning.

Garnish & serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.

Tips & Variations:

More authentic “dirty” flavor: Add finely chopped chicken livers to the ground meat mixture (classic Cajun style).

Make it spicy: Add cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.

Vegetarian version: Use plant-based meat or mushrooms, and veggie broth.

Add-ins: Stir in cooked shrimp, sausage slices, or black beans for a heartier dish.