Shrimp Dirty Rice Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about a big bowl of shrimp dirty rice. The combination of plump, juicy shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and hearty rice creates a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a potluck, this one is always a winner.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe on a trip to New Orleans, where every bite was a celebration of bold Southern flavors. After tweaking it to make it simpler and more approachable for home cooks, it’s now a go-to in my kitchen. The best part? It comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Dirty Rice

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation. This shrimp dirty rice is packed with flavor, easy to make, and endlessly versatile.

First, it’s a one-pan wonder. That means less cleanup and more time to sit back and enjoy your meal. Everything cooks in the same skillet, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like rice, shrimp, and a few pantry staples, you can feed a whole family without breaking the bank.

The flavor is out of this world. Smoky andouille sausage, the classic Cajun “holy trinity” of onions, celery, and bell peppers, and a blend of bold seasonings make this dish deeply satisfying.

Plus, it’s highly customizable. Want to add more spice? Toss in some extra cayenne. Prefer chicken instead of shrimp? Go for it! This dish is all about making it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of shrimp dirty rice lies in its balance of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish stand out.

Shrimp – Go for medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen works fine, just make sure to pat them dry before cooking.

Andouille sausage – This adds smoky heat to the dish. If you prefer something milder, smoked sausage or even turkey sausage works great.

Long-grain white rice – The best choice for this dish because it stays fluffy and doesn’t clump together. Jasmine or basmati rice are also good substitutes.

Cajun seasoning – This is where all the bold, spicy flavors come from. Use store-bought or make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and black pepper.

The holy trinity (onion, celery, bell pepper) – These three vegetables form the base of countless Cajun and Creole dishes, adding depth and a slightly sweet undertone.

Chicken broth – Cooking the rice in broth instead of water infuses every bite with rich flavor. Use low-sodium broth if you want more control over the salt level.

A large skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for making shrimp dirty rice, as it helps develop the best texture and allows everything to cook evenly.

How To Make This Shrimp Dirty Rice

Making shrimp dirty rice is surprisingly simple, with just a few key steps to follow.

Start by cooking the andouille sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it brown for a few minutes, releasing its smoky, spicy oils into the pan. Once cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside.

In the same pan, add a bit of oil and sauté the onion, celery, and bell pepper until soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking just until aromatic, about 30 seconds.

Add the rice and let it toast slightly, stirring to coat it in all the flavorful drippings from the sausage and vegetables. This step helps enhance the nutty taste of the rice.

Pour in the chicken broth, then season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Once the rice is done, add the cooked sausage back into the pan, followed by the shrimp. Cover the skillet and let the shrimp steam for a few minutes until pink and cooked through.

Fluff everything with a fork, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for brightness, and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy every spicy, savory bite.

Storage Options

Shrimp dirty rice stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

For short-term storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

If you want to freeze it, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating is easy—just warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back the moisture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This shrimp dirty rice is highly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

For a milder version, swap andouille sausage for smoked sausage or even diced ham. This keeps the smoky flavor while toning down the spice.

Want a vegetarian option? Skip the shrimp and sausage, and use mushrooms and kidney beans instead. The beans add protein while mushrooms bring an umami depth.

If you’re a heat lover, turn up the spice with extra cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce before serving.

Brown rice can be used instead of white rice for a whole-grain twist. Just increase the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to soften.

For an extra protein boost, mix in shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked bacon. Both add incredible richness to the dish.

Shrimp dirty rice is one of those dishes that never gets old. Whether you keep it classic or put your own spin on it, it’s guaranteed to be a hit every time you make it. Enjoy!

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