If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love, you gotta try this Cajun Dirty Rice with Garlic Aioli.
It’s packed with bold, spicy flavors, but it’s not too hot for kids (you can adjust the spice!). Plus, that creamy, garlicky aioli on top? Game-changer. This is one of those meals that feels like a big hug in a bowl — and it’s super easy to throw together!
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe has been a family favorite for years because:
- It’s quick and only needs simple pantry staples.
- It’s perfect for busy nights — all in one pan!
- You can make it mild for the kids or spicy for the grown-ups.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day.
- That aioli adds the perfect creamy touch!
What You’ll Need
For the Dirty Rice:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
Pro Tips
- Rinse your rice! It helps remove excess starch so it stays fluffy, not gummy.
- Adjust the spice. Taste your Cajun seasoning first — some are hotter than others!
- Shortcut: Use pre-diced veggies from the store to save even more time.
- Make the aioli first. It gives the flavors time to blend while you cook the rice.
- Double it! Dirty rice freezes really well for future meals.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or deep sauté pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage.
- Add chopped chicken livers for a more traditional dirty rice flavor.
- Make it vegetarian by using lentils instead of meat and veggie broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can make the aioli 2–3 days ahead and keep it in the fridge!
- Cook the rice separately and add it at the end if you want super fluffy rice.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Garlic Aioli
In a small bowl, stir together mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cover and chill in the fridge while you make the rice.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another minute.
Step 4: Season
Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a little salt and pepper.
Step 5: Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the uncooked rice, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
Step 6: Simmer
Cover the skillet, lower the heat, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
Step 7: Fluff and Serve
Turn off the heat, fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle with green onions, and drizzle with garlic aioli before serving.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
- Freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months!
Servings & Time
- Servings: 4 hearty servings
- Total Time: About 40 minutes
What to Serve With
- Cornbread
- A fresh green salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Pickles or pickled jalapeños on the side!
FAQ
Can I make it spicier?
Yep! Just add more Cajun seasoning or a little cayenne pepper.
Can I use brown rice instead?
You can, but it takes longer to cook — about 45 minutes.
Is the aioli necessary?
Technically no… but it’s soooo good you’ll miss it if you skip it.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to make this Cajun Dirty Rice with Garlic Aioli as I am to share it! It’s cozy, comforting, and bursting with flavor. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below — and don’t be shy if you have any questions. I love hearing from you!