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Shrimp Dirty Rice: A Flavorful Southern Classic

Shrimp Dirty Rice is a flavorful Southern classic that brings together tender shrimp, savory meats, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice in one hearty dish. With its bold spices and rich taste, this one-pan wonder is perfect for weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or meal prep. Each bite is a celebration of Southern comfort food at its best.

 

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb hamburger meat
  • 1 lb ground pork sausage
  • 1012 shrimp (tail-off, deveined)
  • 4 cups cooked long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth (Better Than Bouillon recommended)
  • 1½ cups mixed onions and bell peppers, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup flour

Seasonings and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon oregano
  • 3 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season and Cook the Shrimp:
    • Season the shrimp with seafood seasoning.
    • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until opaque and slightly golden.
    • Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Brown the Meats and Sauté the Vegetables:
    • Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet.
    • Cook the hamburger meat and ground pork sausage, breaking them apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
    • Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
    • Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
  3. Add Seasonings and Create the Sauce:
    • Stir in oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
    • Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture and stir until evenly coated.
    • Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly to create a thick, flavorful sauce.
    • Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  4. Combine with Rice and Shrimp:
    • Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the meat and sauce.
    • Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
    • Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Spoon the Shrimp Dirty Rice onto plates or into bowls.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
    • Serve hot with a side of green salad or crusty bread.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances the flavor, but thawed frozen shrimp also works well.
  • Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain rice stays fluffy and separates easily, preventing a mushy texture.
  • Adjust Heat Levels: Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for extra spice.