A Southern-inspired one-pan meal, this shrimp dirty rice skillet blends tender shrimp with savory meats and aromatic vegetables. Bold Cajun spices, fluffy rice, and a rich, savory broth create a dish full of flavor that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Each bite combines the freshness of shrimp with the depth of seasoned sausage and ground beef, complemented by a medley of peppers and onions.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 8 oz ground beef (preferably with a little fat for flavor)
- 8 oz ground pork sausage (mild or spicy depending on preference)
- 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
Rice & Broth
- 4 cups cooked long-grain white rice (day-old preferred)
- 2 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or Better Than Bouillon for depth)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (mix of red and green)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Spices
- 2 tsp seafood seasoning (paprika, cayenne, mustard blend)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
- Salt, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Preparation
Season Shrimp
Toss shrimp with seafood seasoning until evenly coated. Set aside while preparing the rest of the ingredients.
Cook Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes per side, until curled and lightly browned. Remove shrimp and set aside to retain juiciness.
Brown Meats
In the same skillet, add remaining oil, ground beef, and sausage. Crumble and cook over medium heat until nearly browned. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Stir and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
Add Spices and Flour
Sprinkle in all dried spices, mixing thoroughly to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to form a thick, cohesive base. This will give the rice a silky, rich texture.
Simmer with Broth
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and develops a glossy finish.
Combine Rice and Shrimp
Add cooked rice, stirring to coat each grain in the flavorful sauce. Simmer an additional 5 minutes for flavors to meld. Gently fold shrimp back into the skillet, keeping them plump and tender. Adjust salt and spices to taste.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Dirty Rice
- Day-old rice: Using rice cooked the day before prevents mushiness and absorbs flavors better.
- Toast the flour: Cooking the flour for a minute before adding broth adds a subtle smoky depth.
- Season gradually: Salt after simmering to balance the natural saltiness of sausage and broth.
- Shrimp timing: Add shrimp last to avoid overcooking; they cook quickly and should remain tender.
- Variations: Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist, or try smoked turkey in place of sausage for a lighter version.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Portion and freeze in airtight bags; lay flat to thaw quickly.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor. Avoid microwave heating without liquid, which can dry out the rice and shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a communal family-style meal. Pair with:
- Vinegary greens or sautéed spinach
- Roasted okra or zucchini
- Skillet cornbread or garlic bread
- Leftovers can be used in breakfast hash, tacos, or fried rice for a second meal
Cultural Context
Dirty rice is a staple of Cajun and Creole cooking, originally designed to use every part of the animal efficiently. Traditional recipes often included chicken livers, while modern adaptations, like this shrimp version, offer the same bold flavors in a more approachable format. The addition of shrimp elevates the dish, giving it a celebratory touch perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What proteins are used in this dish?
Seasoned shrimp, ground beef, and pork sausage provide a layered, savory flavor profile.
How is the shrimp cooked?
Shrimp is seasoned and seared quickly, then added back to the rice at the end to remain tender and juicy.
What gives shrimp dirty rice its signature flavor?
A mix of Cajun-inspired spices, sautéed onions, bell peppers, garlic, and herbs creates depth and savory richness.
Can this dish be made ahead?
Yes, most components can be prepped in advance. Combine and finish cooking just before serving. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet.
What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice holds texture and absorbs the flavorful sauce without becoming mushy.
This shrimp dirty rice skillet delivers bold Cajun flavors in one easy pan. With a balance of fresh seafood, savory meats, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Following these steps and tips ensures tender shrimp, perfectly flavored rice, and a dish that will disappear fast from the table.