Name: Shrimp Dirty Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; ½ tsp thyme; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); ½ cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional); 2 green onions, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of shrimp dirty rice to bring bold, comforting flavors to the table. This Louisiana-inspired dish is packed with tender shrimp, perfectly seasoned rice, and a deep, savory taste that keeps you coming back for more.

I first fell in love with dirty rice on a trip to New Orleans, where every bite seemed to tell a story of tradition and spice. This homemade version captures that same essence—without being complicated. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Dirty Rice

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s bursting with flavor, quick to prepare, and completely satisfying.

First, it’s an all-in-one meal that requires minimal cleanup. The shrimp, rice, and seasoning all cook together in a single pan, making your life easier without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe is also packed with bold Cajun spices that add just the right amount of heat and depth. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, you can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

If you're a seafood lover, this dish is a must-try. The shrimp cook up tender and juicy, soaking up all the smoky, garlicky flavors of the rice. Every bite is an explosion of Southern comfort.

Best of all, it’s a fantastic way to use up pantry staples and frozen shrimp. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of shrimp dirty rice is in its simple yet bold ingredients. Each one brings something special to the dish, making it an irresistible favorite.

Shrimp – Fresh or frozen, peeled, and deveined shrimp work great. Medium-sized shrimp are ideal since they cook quickly and stay juicy.

Rice – Long-grain white rice is the traditional choice, as it absorbs the flavors beautifully without getting mushy. If you prefer brown rice, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Holy Trinity (Onion, Bell Pepper, Celery) – This classic Cajun base adds sweetness, depth, and a slight crunch to balance out the rich flavors.

Andouille Sausage (Optional) – While not essential, adding a bit of sliced andouille sausage can take the smoky flavor to the next level.

Cajun Seasoning – The heart of the dish! A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper gives the rice its signature kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Chicken Broth – Instead of plain water, cooking the rice in broth enhances the flavor, making every bite rich and savory.

Butter and Olive Oil – A combination of both ensures the rice doesn’t stick while adding a velvety mouthfeel.

A large skillet or Dutch oven is the only special equipment you need to bring everything together in one pan.

How To Make This Shrimp Dirty Rice

Making shrimp dirty rice is surprisingly simple, yet it delivers restaurant-quality flavor. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and butter, then toss in your shrimp. Cook them for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so let the veggies cook down until they’re fragrant and slightly caramelized.

Next, stir in the Cajun seasoning and garlic, letting the spices toast for about 30 seconds. This brings out their full, bold flavor and infuses the rice with that classic dirty rice taste.

Add the uncooked rice, stirring to coat it in the flavorful mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Let the rice cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes.

Once the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth, stir the cooked shrimp back into the pan. Let everything sit for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together before serving.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers taste just as incredible the next day!

Storage Options

Shrimp dirty rice stores well, making it a great meal prep option. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

For short-term storage, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day!

To freeze, let the rice cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating is simple—just warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about shrimp dirty rice is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to switch things up.

Want extra protein? Add diced chicken or andouille sausage along with the shrimp. The combination of meats creates an even heartier dish.

Looking for a milder version? Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a store-bought blend with less spice. You can also substitute smoked paprika for a hint of flavor without the heat.

Need a healthier twist? Swap out white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice. Keep in mind that brown rice will need a longer cooking time, while cauliflower rice should be added at the end to avoid overcooking.

Vegetarian? Skip the shrimp and use mushrooms or black beans instead. They provide a similar texture and soak up the seasonings beautifully.

Want a smoky depth of flavor? Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra complexity.

No matter how you make it, shrimp dirty rice is a dish you’ll keep coming back to. The bold spices, juicy shrimp, and perfectly seasoned rice make it an absolute winner. Give it a try tonight, and let the flavors of the South take over your kitchen!