🍀 Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Dirty Rice

Hearty, spicy, and full of bold Southern flavor β€” this dish is comfort food with a kick.

πŸ›’ Ingredients
Proteins
1 lb ground beef (hamburger meat)

1 lb ground pork sausage

10–12 medium shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails off)

1 tsp seafood seasoning (for shrimp)

Base
4 cups cooked white rice

2 cups chicken broth (Better Than Bouillon recommended)

1Β½ cups diced onion & bell pepper mix

3 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)

3 tsp minced garlic

Seasoning Blend
1 tbsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp chili powder

1 tbsp oregano

1 tsp thyme

Β½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Β½ tsp black pepper (more to taste)

Β½ tsp salt (more to taste)

ΒΌ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)

πŸ”§ Tools You’ll Need
Large skillet or Dutch oven

Wooden spoon or spatula

Measuring cups and spoons

Knife and cutting board

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
1. SautΓ© the Shrimp
Season shrimp with seafood seasoning.
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until curled and pink.
Remove and set aside.

2. Brown the Meats
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp oil.
Cook the ground beef and pork sausage until partially browned.

3. Add Veggies & Garlic
Stir in diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic.
Cook until meat is fully browned and vegetables have softened.

4. Season & Thicken
Sprinkle in oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, pepper, salt, and cayenne.
Add ΒΌ cup flour and stir to coat the mixture.
Slowly pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer for 5–7 minutes.

5. Add Rice & Shrimp
Stir in cooked rice and let everything simmer together for 5 minutes.
Return shrimp to the skillet and mix to combine.
Heat through until piping hot and cohesive.

βœ… Why You’ll Love It
One-Skillet Meal – Easy cleanup, big flavor

Protein-Packed – Ground meat, sausage, and shrimp in every bite

Meal Prep Friendly – Reheats beautifully for lunches

Southern Comfort Food – With smoky, garlicky depth and just the right amount of heat

πŸ“ Tips & Variations
πŸ’‘ Pro Tips
Don’t overcook the shrimp β€” once they form a tight β€œC” shape, they’re done.

Simmer after adding broth to activate the flour and build richness.

Use cold, day-old rice for better texture and less stickiness.

πŸ”„ Variations
Spicier: Add extra cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.

Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped celery or okra with the peppers.

No Shrimp? Use diced chicken or andouille sausage instead.

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

🍴 Serving Ideas
Serve this dish:

With cornbread or crusty French bread

Alongside coleslaw or a fresh green salad

With a cold beer or sweet tea to balance the heat

πŸ”š Final Thoughts
This Dirty Rice with shrimp, sausage, and beef is the ultimate Southern comfort dish β€” rich, spicy, and filling. It’s the kind of meal that brings people to the table and makes them linger just a little longer.

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