Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
1 green or red bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
3 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional: Green onions, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
Brown the beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Sauté the vegetables:
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Toast the rice:
Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it, enhancing the flavor.Add seasonings and broth:Sprinkle in smoked paprika, dried thyme, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.Simmer until done:Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff and serve:
Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
Serve hot and enjoy this bold and flavorful dish!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6