Paula Deen’s dirty rice isn’t just any side dish—it’s packed with deep, savory goodness that comes from the right mix of meats and seasonings.
The key to getting that classic taste?
Browning the sausage and ground beef long enough to develop rich, caramelized bits at the bottom of the pan.
Chicken livers are traditional, and while they aren’t for everyone, even a small amount adds a depth that’s hard to replace.
I always cook the rice separately, then stir it into the meat and veggie mix to keep the texture from turning mushy.
Be sure to let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to get those flavors to deepen!
How to Make Paula Deen Dirty Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Livers (finely chopped)
- 1 lb Bulk Pork Sausage
- 1 cup Onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup Celery (chopped)
- 1/2 cup Green Bell Pepper (chopped)
- 4 cups Hot Cooked Rice
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Leaves (chopped)
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions so it’s ready when the rest of your dish is done.
Set it aside and keep it warm.
Step 2:
In a large skillet, brown the pork sausage over medium heat until it’s cooked through, breaking it apart as it browns.
Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to a plate.
Step 3:
In the same skillet, add the chopped chicken livers and cook them until they’re browned and cooked through.
This should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4:
Add the onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the skillet.
Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
Step 5:
Mix in the cooked rice, sausage, and chicken livers with the vegetables.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Leftover Rice
If you have leftover rice, it works perfectly for this dish!
Using cold rice will help prevent the dish from becoming mushy, as it holds its shape and texture well.
Adjust the Heat
Feel free to adjust the spice by using hot pork sausage or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Tailor the spice to your personal preference for the perfect blend.
Broth Adds Flavor
Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water will add an extra depth of flavor to the dish.
This small change can make for a tasty discovery.
Go Bold on Garnish
Don’t skip the chopped parsley; it adds freshness and vibrant color.
It enhances the dish both visually and in taste.
Make It Yours
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to the dish.
Dirty rice is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit any taste.
What to Serve with Paula Deen Dirty Rice Recipe
Fried Okra
You can’t go wrong with crispy fried okra as a side dish for dirty rice! It adds a crunchy texture that’s SO good.
The simple preparation involves slicing okra into bite-sized pieces, coating them in cornmeal, and frying until golden.
Serve them hot and enjoy the delicious contrast with the rich flavors of dirty rice.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern staple that pairs beautifully with dirty rice.
The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread offers a pleasant contrast to the savory nature of the rice.
You might enjoy serving it warm, perhaps with a hint of butter on top.
Greek Yogurt Coleslaw
For a refreshing side, consider a Greek yogurt coleslaw.
This alternative to the traditional mayonnaise version brings a tangy twist to your meal.
It’s light and creamy, balancing the hearty flavors of the dirty rice.
Spicy Roasted Cauliflower
Looking for a unique twist? Try spicy roasted cauliflower.
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, crushed red pepper, and garlic powder before roasting them in the oven.
The result is a spicy, slightly crispy side that complements the flavors in dirty rice nicely.
Roasted Beet and Feta Salad
For a colorful and nutritious option, a roasted beet and feta salad could be just what you’re looking for.
Simply roast some beets, slice them up, and toss them with feta cheese and a light vinaigrette.
It’s vibrant and adds a slightly sweet, tangy contrast to the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Options
Feel free to swap out the chicken livers for ground beef, turkey, or even tofu if you prefer.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sausages too, whether you choose spicy or mild flavors.
Vegetables and Grains
If you’re not a fan of green bell peppers, try using red bell peppers for a sweeter twist.
Brown rice is a great alternative to white rice if you’re looking for something heartier.
Consider adding chopped tomatoes or even corn for more color and a touch of sweetness.
Herbs and Seasonings
Replacing parsley with cilantro can give the dish a fresh, slightly citrusy note.
For more heat, add extra cayenne or even a dash of hot sauce.
You can also experiment with smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky or earthy hint.
Dietary Restrictions
For a lighter option, use extra-lean ground meat or even a plant-based protein alternative.
Olive oil instead of butter can reduce fat content while retaining flavor.
Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth can make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
How to Store Leftover Dirty Rice
Your leftover dirty rice needs to be stored correctly to stay fresh and safe.
Quick Cooling Technique
First, you’ll want to cool it down quickly after cooking.
Spread the rice out on a baking sheet to allow it to cool evenly and quickly.
Storing in the Refrigerator
Once the rice has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container.
Pop it in the fridge and enjoy within one day for the best taste.
Freezer Storage Tip
If you’re not planning to eat the dirty rice soon, the freezer is your best friend.
Divide the rice into portion-sized bags or containers before freezing to make defrosting easier.
Just remember to label them with the date for future reference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Livers
One mistake is overcooking the chicken livers, which can make them tough and grainy.
You want them cooked until just done, just a touch of pink inside, so they stay tender and flavorful!
Not Properly Seasoning
Another pitfall is under-seasoning your dirty rice, leading to a bland dish.
You should add enough spices and herbs to bring out all the wonderful flavors.
Don’t be shy with the cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper!
Skipping the Vegetables
It’s essential not to skip the holy trinity of Southern cooking: onions, celery, and bell peppers.
These vegetables add depth and a deliciously fragrant aroma to your dirty rice.
Make sure you don’t skimp on these essential ingredients!
Paula Deen Dirty Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Livers finely chopped
- 1 lb Bulk Pork Sausage
- 1 cup Onion chopped
- 1/2 cup Celery chopped
- 1/2 cup Green Bell Pepper chopped
- 4 cups Hot Cooked Rice
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Leaves chopped
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions so it's ready when the rest of your dish is done.
- Set it aside and keep it warm.
- In a large skillet, brown the pork sausage over medium heat until it's cooked through, breaking it apart as it browns.
- Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped chicken livers and cook them until they're browned and cooked through.
- This should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the skillet.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
- Mix in the cooked rice, sausage, and chicken livers with the vegetables.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.