Name: Shrimp Dirty Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups cooked long grain rice; ½ lb ground pork sausage; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Hey y'all! If you're craving something packed with savory Cajun flavor and a bit of Southern comfort, this Shrimp Dirty Rice will hit the spot. With juicy shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and spiced rice all cooked in one skillet, it's bold, hearty, and seriously satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, casual weeknight dinner, or a festive potluck, this recipe is bound to become a staple at your table. Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Dirty Rice

Packed with bold, savory Cajun flavors in every bite.
One-pan meal – easy cleanup and quick prep!
Ready in just 40 minutes for busy weeknights.
Loaded with juicy shrimp and hearty veggies for a balanced dish.
Easily adaptable for spice lovers or those who prefer it mild.

Shrimp Dirty Rice Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ pound andouille sausage, sliced (optional)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
3 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make Shrimp Dirty Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in onions, bell pepper, and celery; cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute more.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked rice directly to the skillet with the vegetables. Toast, stirring often, until rice turns slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. This adds extra flavor to your Shrimp Dirty Rice.

Step 3: Cook with Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth. Add paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes (no peeking!) until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Remove the skillet lid and gently stir in the shrimp. Cover again and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp for the best texture.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve hot, garnished with green onions, parsley, and a few lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Dirty Rice!

Notes for the Best Shrimp Dirty Rice

Use fresh, wild-caught shrimp for superior flavor and texture (learn more here).
For a deeper flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine after sautéing the sausage.
To control heat, adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference. More tips at Serious Eats.

Shrimp Dirty Rice Variations

Spicy Creole: Add 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning and diced tomatoes with the broth.
Chicken & Shrimp Dirty Rice: Replace half the shrimp with cooked shredded chicken for extra protein.
Vegetarian Dirty Rice: Omit shrimp and sausage; increase veggies and add mushrooms or smoked tofu.

Required Equipment for Shrimp Dirty Rice

Large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Shrimp Dirty Rice Storage Instructions

Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Not recommended for freezing as shrimp can become rubbery.

What to Serve with Shrimp Dirty Rice

Serve your Shrimp Dirty Rice with cornbread, garden salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Pair with sautéed greens or roasted okra for a true Southern feast!
A crisp white wine or homemade sweet tea balances the spices perfectly.

Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Dirty Rice

Use long-grain rice for distinct, fluffy grains (learn more about rice types at The Spruce Eats).
Don’t overcook the shrimp or they’ll turn rubbery; add them toward the end.
Let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes after cooking before fluffing for best texture.

Shrimp Dirty Rice FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?: Yes, add pre-cooked shrimp at the very end and heat for 1-2 minutes until just warmed through.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?: Absolutely, but increase the simmering time to 35-40 minutes and add extra broth as needed.
Is Shrimp Dirty Rice spicy?: It has a gentle kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by lowering or increasing the cayenne pepper.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Shrimp Dirty Rice