Dirty Rice Casserole

For a spicier version, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meat mixture. Or, use spicy pork sausage.

To make the dish healthier, use lean ground meat and reduced-fat cream soups.

Add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.

Try different types of sausage for varied flavors.

If the casserole seems too dry during baking, add a little chicken broth to keep it moist.

To speed up the cooking process, use instant rice instead of raw long-grain rice.

This recipe doesn't need any salt but if your pork sausage isn't very seasoned try adding some black pepper or low sodium soy sauce for an extra flavor boost.

You can use any combination of your favorite cream soups in this recipe. One of our favorites to add instead of cream of mushroom is cream of jalapeno!

What is dirty rice?

Dirty rice is a Cajun dish traditionally made with chopped chicken livers and gizzards, cooked with onions, bell peppers, celery, and spices. This recipe provides an oven-baked twist on the classic dish using pork and beef instead of chicken livers and gizzards.

Can I use a different type of meat?

You can use ground chicken or turkey as a substitute for the ground beef and sausage if desired. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.

Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?

You can substitute brown rice for the white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and may result in a slightly different texture.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store the leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to prevent the rice from drying out.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Deep Skillet: Use this to brown the ground beef and pork sausage, as well as to cook the vegetables before transferring them to the baking dish.

9x13-inch Baking Dish: For baking the dirty rice casserole in the oven. Don't forget to grease it beforehand to prevent sticking!

Stirring Spoon: Needed to stir and mix the ground beef, sausage, vegetables, soups, and rice together in the skillet.

Aluminum Foil: Covering the baking dish tightly with foil helps the rice cook evenly and retain moisture.

Oven: Required for baking the casserole at 325 degrees F until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Knife: Use to chop the onion, bell pepper, and celery before adding them to the skillet.

Cutting Board: To provide a stable surface for chopping the vegetables without damaging your countertop.

Can Opener: Necessary to open the cans of cream of mushroom, cream of celery, and cream of chicken soup before adding them to the skillet.

Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy texture of coleslaw will add a nice contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the dirty rice casserole. Plus, the creaminess of the coleslaw dressing will help balance out the dish.

Fried Okra: The crispy, golden exterior of fried okra will provide a nice crunchy element to your meal, offsetting the softer textures of the rice and meats. Plus, who doesn't love a little fried goodness every now and then?

Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread will not only help you mop up every last bit of that creamy casserole, but the garlic flavor will also add a little extra kick to the dish. Just don't be surprised if everyone fights over the last piece.

Wine Pairings
Zinfandel: Its fruity and slightly spicy notes dance well with the rich, meaty flavors of the dirty rice casserole without overpowering the dish. Look for one that has notes of blackberry and a hint of peppery spice.

Grenache: Its berry flavors and subtle warmth complement the sausage and ground beef.

Beaujolais: Light, flirtatious, and a bit fruity, this wine doesn't take itself too seriously but seriously brings out the best in the dish.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Amber Ale: With its balance of sweet malt and gentle bitterness, it's great at cutting through the richness of the dish while harmonizing with the meaty flavors.

Saison: This farmhouse-style ale, with its earthy notes and a touch of spice, is a match made in heaven with the rustic, hearty flavors of the casserole.

Bourbon: Why not? Its sweet, warming notes pair well with the savory, meaty, and creamy components of the dish.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Ginger Beer: Its bold, spicy kick and refreshing fizz make it a dynamic partner for this hearty dish.

Iced Tea: Simple, dependable, but never boring, especially when you jazz it up with a squeeze of lemon or a sprig of mint.

Sparkling Water with a Twist: Add a splash of lime or a dash of cranberry juice to your sparkling water for a drink that's the ideal palate cleanser.