Name: Shrimp Dirty Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern / Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice (preferably day-old); 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 stalks celery, finely diced; 1 green bell pepper, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup green peas; 2 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Shrimp Dirty Rice is one of those dishes that instantly brings warmth and comfort to the table. I love how it takes a handful of humble ingredients and transforms them into something bold, satisfying, and downright irresistible. The savory flavors of Cajun spices, sweet shrimp, and smoky aromatics meld beautifully into fluffy, seasoned rice. It’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy a one-pan meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

What makes this dish so special for me is its versatility and depth of flavor. Whether I’m cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests with a Southern-inspired spread, Shrimp Dirty Rice never disappoints. It’s spicy without being overpowering, filling without being heavy, and packed with texture from the shrimp and bits of vegetables. Plus, it all comes together surprisingly fast, which is a big win in my book.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Dirty Rice

It’s a one-pan wonder — less mess, more flavor.
Cajun spices give it a bold, smoky kick.
Juicy shrimp add a sweet and briny contrast.
Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Easily customizable with veggies or protein swaps.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

For Shrimp Dirty Rice, I always go with long-grain white rice. It cooks up fluffy and separates well, which is key for that signature texture. Day-old rice works beautifully because it’s drier and holds up without becoming mushy. You can also use jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist, though traditionalists might argue for plain white rice to let the Cajun flavors shine.

Options for Substitutions

Protein: Not a fan of shrimp? Swap it out for diced chicken, turkey sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Rice: Brown rice or cauliflower rice work if you’re aiming for a healthier take.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, corn, or chopped greens for extra nutrients.
Spice Level: Adjust cayenne or hot sauce to control the heat.
Herbs: Parsley is classic, but cilantro can add a fresh twist.

Ingredients for this Shrimp Dirty Rice

Shrimp: The star of the dish, giving it a sweet, briny taste and a meaty texture that balances the rice beautifully.
Long-grain white rice: Ideal for absorbing all the bold Cajun flavors while staying fluffy and separated.
Onion: Provides a savory base and sweetness when sautéed.
Celery: A staple in Cajun cooking; adds crunch and depth.
Green bell pepper: Completes the holy trinity of Creole cuisine for a balanced aromatic base.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with a rich, fragrant foundation.
Green peas: Add a pop of color, texture, and a hint of sweetness.
Cajun seasoning: The essential spice blend that brings smoky, spicy, and herbaceous notes.
Paprika: Adds warmth and color.
Salt and black pepper: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Butter: Used to sauté the veggies and shrimp, lending a rich, comforting taste.
Olive oil: Helps in cooking the ingredients evenly and prevents sticking.
Chicken or vegetable broth: Adds moisture and depth to the rice, ensuring it’s flavorful with every bite.
Fresh parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Lemon juice: Brightens the dish and balances the spices.

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp and Vegetables

Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp if it hasn’t been done already. Pat them dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Dice your onion, celery, and green bell pepper finely, mince the garlic, and set everything aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the shrimp. Let them sear for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Season the Base

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables and let the spices toast for about a minute to deepen their flavor.

Step 5: Add Rice and Broth

Add in your cooked rice (day-old rice works best). Stir well to combine with the vegetables and spices. Pour in the broth a bit at a time to loosen the rice and make it moist without becoming soggy.

Step 6: Finish with Shrimp and Peas

Return the shrimp to the pan and fold in the green peas. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

How Long to Prepare the Shrimp Dirty Rice

The beauty of Shrimp Dirty Rice lies in how quickly everything comes together. If you’re using pre-cooked rice, the entire dish can be ready in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: Most of the prep is in the chopping. Dicing onions, celery, and bell peppers takes around 10 minutes. Cleaning and seasoning the shrimp adds another 5–10 minutes, depending on whether you’re starting with peeled shrimp.

Cooking Time: From sautéing the aromatics to folding in the rice and shrimp, the cooking takes roughly 15–20 minutes. The key is to have all your ingredients ready before you start, as the cooking moves quickly.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Dirty Rice

Use day-old rice: It’s drier and less likely to clump, giving the dish that perfect fluffy texture.
Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook fast — just a couple of minutes per side is enough.
Toast the spices: Letting the Cajun seasoning cook with the veggies for a minute deepens the flavor.
Balance the seasoning: Taste and adjust — the spice level should enhance, not overwhelm.
Finish with lemon: A squeeze of citrus right at the end brightens the whole dish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using wet rice: Freshly cooked rice can turn mushy. Cool it down or use leftovers.
Skipping the trinity: Onion, celery, and bell pepper are the base of flavor — don’t omit them.
Cooking shrimp too early: They can become rubbery if left too long in the pan.
Over-salting: Cajun seasoning often contains salt, so be mindful when adding extra.
Crowding the pan: It prevents the shrimp from getting a good sear and can make everything steam instead of fry.

What to Serve With Shrimp Dirty Rice?

1. Cornbread

A slice of buttery, slightly sweet cornbread complements the spicy, savory flavors beautifully.

2. Collard Greens

Slow-cooked greens add a comforting Southern touch and a bit of bitterness to balance the dish.

3. Cucumber Salad

A chilled, tangy cucumber salad offers a refreshing contrast.

4. Fried Plantains

Sweet and crispy, they bring a Caribbean flair that pairs surprisingly well.

5. Garlic Bread

For those who love carbs, crusty garlic bread soaks up every bit of flavor.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the rice has cooled completely before sealing it to avoid excess moisture and sogginess.

Freezing: You can freeze Shrimp Dirty Rice for up to one month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it feels too dry.

Reheating: Use a covered skillet on low heat to retain moisture and prevent overcooking the shrimp. Alternatively, microwave in intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 780mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Just store the shrimp separately and mix it in when reheating to keep it tender.

What’s the best shrimp to use?

Medium to large shrimp (21–25 count) work best for bite-size pieces and quick cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat from the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust it by adding or reducing cayenne.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap shrimp for mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.

Conclusion

Shrimp Dirty Rice is the kind of dish that delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and easy prep all in one bowl. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or making a quick meal with leftovers, it’s hearty, spicy, and endlessly adaptable. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, this Southern-inspired classic can easily become a staple in your kitchen.