Shrimp Sausage Dirty Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Proteins

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1 pound ground sausage
03 - 10 to 12 shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Grains

04 - 4 cups cooked rice

→ Liquid

05 - 2 cups chicken broth

→ Vegetables

06 - 1.5 cups mixed onions and bell peppers, chopped

→ Fats and Oils

07 - 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided

→ Seasonings and Spices

08 - 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
09 - 1 tablespoon oregano
10 - 3 teaspoons minced garlic
11 - 1 teaspoon thyme
12 - 1 tablespoon garlic powder
13 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
14 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
15 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
16 - Salt, to taste
17 - Pinch of cayenne pepper, optional

→ Thickener

18 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

# Instructions:

01 - Toss the shrimp with seafood seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and firm. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
02 - Add remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the skillet. Add ground beef and ground sausage, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Cook over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
03 - Incorporate chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
04 - Add oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper if using, and salt to taste. Sprinkle flour evenly over the mixture and stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
05 - Pour chicken broth into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and flavors meld.
06 - Fold in the cooked rice. Stir well to combine, and allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes so the rice can absorb the flavors.
07 - Return cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently mix to distribute evenly, then serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Use day-old rice for a fluffier texture that better absorbs the seasonings.
02 - Swap shrimp for chicken or try turkey sausage for a lighter alternative.
03 - Level of heat is customizable by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or adding hot sauce.
04 - For a vegetarian version, replace meats with mushrooms and plant-based sausage.
05 - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
06 - Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
07 - Serve alongside a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or pair with chilled white wine, iced tea, or a light lager.