Go Back
shrimp dirty rice-1

Shrimp Dirty Rice

A flavorful Louisiana-inspired dish packed with tender shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and deeply spiced rice. Perfect for a hearty main course that's full of classic Cajun flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 370

Ingredients
  

  • 500 grams large shrimp, peeled and deveined about 1 pound
  • 200 grams long-grain white rice, uncooked 1 cup
  • 475 ml chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups
  • 100 grams andouille sausage or smoked sausage, sliced 3.5 ounces
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced about 100 grams
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced about 120 grams
  • 2 stalks celery, diced about 100 grams
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet or sauté pan
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 measuring cups
  • 1 measuring spoons
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 medium mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until just pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the andouille sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until browned and some fat is rendered. Remove sausage and set aside with the shrimp.
  3. Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to coat the grains in oil and spices, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Pour in the broth and return the andouille sausage to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Return the shrimp to the skillet and fold them in until heated through (about 1-2 minutes).
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with green onions and parsley before serving.

Notes

If you want more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce.
For best flavor, use fresh shrimp and authentic Cajun seasoning.
Dirty rice can be made a day ahead—just add the shrimp before serving to avoid overcooking.