Description
This irresistible Popeyes Cajun Rice Copycat recipe delivers the authentic, flavorful taste of the beloved restaurant dish right in your home kitchen. Made with aromatic Cajun seasoning, tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and perfectly cooked long grain rice simmered in rich beef broth, this dish is a hearty, savory comfort food perfect as a side or a main meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 2 cups long grain rice (fluffy and perfect for soaking up flavors)
- 950 milliliters beef broth (base for cooking the rice)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (provides heartiness and richness)
- 1 cup green bell pepper (diced, adds a sweet crunch)
- 1 medium onion (diced, brings savory depth)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (enhances the dish)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (adds earthy touch)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (for warmth and spice)
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: In a large skillet, warm it over medium-high heat until hot, preparing it for cooking the beef and vegetables.
- Cook Beef and Veggies: Add the ground beef, diced green bell peppers, and diced onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, optional cayenne pepper, celery seed, and ground black pepper over the cooked meat and vegetables. Stir well to evenly coat all ingredients with the spices and enhance the flavor.
- Add Broth and Boil: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a bubbling boil, which will help the rice cook properly and absorb all the flavors.
- Incorporate Rice: Gently fold in the long grain rice, making sure it is evenly distributed throughout the skillet and submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. Cook until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
Notes
- For spicier rice, increase the cayenne pepper slightly according to your heat preference.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Using freshly diced vegetables will provide the best texture and flavor.
- Be sure to cover the skillet securely during simmering to prevent moisture loss.
- This dish pairs excellently with fried chicken or as a standalone meal with a side salad.
