If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this Stacked Shrimp Dirty Rice recipe delivers all that and more. Inspired by classic Louisiana cuisine, this meal layers juicy shrimp, spicy rice, and aromatic vegetables for a dish bursting with flavor and texture.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining, or meal prep, this recipe strikes the balance between down-home comfort and elevated presentation. With the addition of fresh herbs and a gentle kick of Cajun spices, every bite of this stacked masterpiece is pure satisfaction.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
For the Dirty Rice:
- 1½ cups long-grain rice, cooked and cooled
- ½ pound ground beef or sausage (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Juice of half a lemon
For Assembly:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Dirty Rice
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and celery — the traditional Cajun “holy trinity.” Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, paprika, cayenne, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add cooked rice and ground beef (if using). Mix well and cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
- Stir in chopped parsley, then remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- In a separate bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Do not overcook.
Step 3: Stack and Serve
- On individual plates or a serving platter, layer a generous scoop of dirty rice as the base.
- Stack grilled shrimp neatly on top of the rice.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or cornbread for a complete Southern-style meal.
- Drizzle with a bit of garlic butter or hot sauce for extra richness.
- Serve family-style in a large platter for gatherings and parties.
- For a lighter twist, replace rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365 |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Total Fat | 12 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 420 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp is a lean protein source packed with omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals.
- Rice and vegetables add complex carbs and fiber for sustained energy.
- Cajun spices provide depth of flavor without relying on heavy sauces or excess salt.
- Low in saturated fat, making it a heart-friendly comfort dish.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh or wild-caught shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Add a splash of chicken broth to the rice if it feels too dry.
- For a smoky twist, incorporate andouille sausage or a few drops of liquid smoke.
- To make it spicier, increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce when serving.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian version: Skip the shrimp and meat, add black beans or mushrooms for protein.
- Seafood mix: Combine shrimp with scallops or crab for a deluxe version.
- Tropical twist: Add diced pineapple or mango for a sweet-spicy contrast.
- Creamy option: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a richer texture.
This Stacked Shrimp Dirty Rice brings the soul of the South straight to your table — bold, aromatic, and irresistibly satisfying. With tender shrimp layered over spiced, savory rice, this dish delivers gourmet flavor with everyday ingredients.
It’s a perfect example of how simple, well-seasoned components can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Serve it up for family dinners or festive occasions, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection.