Shrimp & Sausage Dirty Rice: A Bold, Easy Southern Classic
Looking for a hearty, one-pan meal that’s packed with Southern flavor? This Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice is spicy, smoky, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a bold comfort dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re cooking for the family or need a quick dinner with soul, this dish delivers the rich, savory taste of Louisiana in every bite. With plump shrimp, seasoned sausage, and fragrant rice, it’s a flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this bold and flavorful Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice. From juicy shrimp and smoky sausage to fresh veggies and aromatic spices, each ingredient plays a key role in building that classic Southern taste.
- Protein & Veggies
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 lb smoked sausage (andouille preferred), sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2–3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Rice & Seasoning
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium if possible)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Time Needed
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking this Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice is easy and stress-free. With just one pan and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious Southern meal on the table in no time. These instructions will walk you through everything from sautéing the veggies to perfectly cooking the shrimp
1. Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating oil in a skillet. Add chopped onions, celery, and bell pepper. Cook them together over medium heat slowly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. After five minutes, the vegetables become soft and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for rice.
2. Add Garlic and Sausage
Now stir in minced garlic for aroma. Next, add sliced sausage to the skillet. Use andouille for a smoky, bold flavor. Cook them for four to five minutes. Let the sausage brown slightly for extra depth. This step enhances the overall savory richness.
3. Toast Rice & Add Broth
Pour in rinsed rice to absorb flavor. Stir well so everything mixes evenly. Add chicken broth to the hot skillet. Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to thoroughly combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer
Turn up the heat until the mixture boils gently. Once boiling, lower the heat to simmer slowly. Cover the skillet with a tight lid. Let it cook for fifteen quiet minutes. Rice will absorb the broth and become tender. Avoid lifting the lid to trap in steam.
5. Add the Shrimp
Uncover when the rice is almost fully done. Stir in the peeled, deveined raw shrimp. Spread evenly so the shrimp cooks through properly. Cover again and cook for five minutes more. Shrimp will turn pink and perfectly tender. Don’t overcook, or it gets rubbery!
Pro Tips
Want to take your Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice to the next level? These simple pro tips will help you boost flavor, save time, and get perfect results every time. From rice texture to shrimp timing, every detail counts. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cook, a few smart tricks make all the difference.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Add them only during the last 5 minutes.
- Rinse your rice to remove starch and prevent it from turning gummy.
- For more kick, add cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Make it a one-pot meal by using a deep skillet or Dutch oven.
Variations
Looking to switch things up? This Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice is super versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or using what you have on hand, there are plenty of delicious ways to make it your own. Swap the proteins, add extra veggies, or play with the spice level.
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different twist.
- Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Add diced tomatoes or spinach for extra veggies.
- Want it spicier? Try using poblano peppers or hot sausage.
What to Serve With It
Wondering what to serve alongside your Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice? This bold, flavorful dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Whether you want something fresh, crunchy, creamy, or classic, there’s a great match for every craving. Here are some tasty ideas to complete your Southern-style meal.
- Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Southern-style cornbread
- Pickled okra or cucumber slices
- A dash of Louisiana hot sauce on the side
Storage & Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem, this Shrimp and Sausage Dirty Rice stores beautifully and tastes just as good the next day. Whether you’re meal prepping or saving extras, proper storage keeps the flavor fresh. It reheats well for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
- Let rice cool before storing.
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth on the stove or microwave.
Conclusion
Shrimp & Sausage Dirty Rice is bold, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. In just one pan and 30 minutes, you get a meal that’s smoky, spicy, and full of Southern soul. It’s perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or when you’re craving a little comfort with a kick. With endless variations and easy storage, this dish is one you’ll keep coming back to. Grab a fork, dinner’s ready.