Looking for a bold and satisfying dish that combines Southern comfort with seafood flair? This Shrimp Dirty Rice is a hearty, flavor-packed recipe featuring tender shrimp, seasoned rice, and aromatic vegetables. Inspired by the traditional Cajun and Creole classic, this dish brings smoky spices and rich flavors to your table in under an hour.
Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Shrimp Dirty Rice is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or festive occasions where you want something comforting yet special.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 1 pound (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth (or seafood stock for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: About 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil, add the rice, reduce heat, and cover. Cook until rice is tender (about 18 minutes). Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Step 4: Combine with Rice
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet with shrimp and vegetables.
- Gently toss everything together until the rice absorbs the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning with cayenne pepper if you want extra spice.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle chopped parsley and sliced green onions over the top.
- Serve hot as a main dish or a flavorful side.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with cornbread and collard greens for a Southern-inspired meal.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a protein-packed dinner.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for brightness.
- Top with hot sauce if you prefer extra heat.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 22 grams |
| Total Fat | 8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 480 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp provides lean protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Rice and vegetables make this a balanced dish with fiber and essential vitamins.
- Cajun spices add flavor without excessive fat, keeping the dish lighter than creamy seafood pastas.
Tips for Best Results
- For richer flavor, use seafood stock instead of chicken broth.
- Make it a one-pot meal by cooking the rice directly in the skillet with the broth after sautéing the veggies.
- Add Andouille sausage for extra smoky, meaty depth.
- Swap white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a more wholesome twist.
This Shrimp Dirty Rice is a bold and satisfying recipe that highlights Cajun flavors in a hearty yet simple dish. With tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.