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POPEYES CAJUN RICE COPYCAT


  • Author: Sarah White
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

 A flavorful Southern-style rice dish loaded with ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and bold Cajun seasoning. Perfect as a hearty side or main meal.


Ingredients

 • 2 cups long-grain rice
• 1 lb ground beef (or mix with finely chopped gizzards)
• ½ cup diced bell pepper
• ½ cup diced onion
• ¼ cup diced celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp butter or oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water and cook in beef broth until tender, about 18–20 minutes. Fluff and set aside. 
  2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain most of the grease, leaving a small amount for flavor. 
  3. Add diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. 
  4. Stir in all the seasonings and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices. 
  5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine. Add a splash of broth if the mixture seems dry. 
  6. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring often, until everything is hot and well-seasoned. 
  7. Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving.

Notes

 For a richer flavor, mix ground beef with minced chicken gizzards. Adjust cayenne for heat preference. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: : 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun / Southern American