When the cupboards feel empty and the grocery list has to wait, Shutdown Suppers is here to help you make the most of what’s around you, whether that’s a single can, a neighbor’s kindness, or just a little creativity. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, our Chorizo “Dirty Rice” recipe is big on flavor, light on cost, and flexible about ingredients.
Chorizo Dirty Rice
Ingredients
- • 9 ounces a 9 oz tube from Walmart is about $1.47
- • 1 cup uncooked rice
- • 1 medium onion diced
- • 2 cloves garlic minced
- • 1–1½ cups vegetables — canned corn bell pepper, or frozen peas
- • 2 cups water or broth
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fried egg, shredded cheese, or a dash of hot sauce
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the chorizo over medium heat until browned. (If using beans instead, skip to Step 2 and add your seasonings when you add the vegetables.)
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in your vegetables and let them sauté for a few minutes.
- Add the rice, mixing well to coat it in the flavorful juices.
- Pour in the water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the flavor.
- Serve warm. Top with a fried egg, wrap in a tortilla, or serve alongside a simple salad for a complete meal.
Notes
This Chorizo Dirty Rice brings comfort and flavor to your table without stretching your budget. Inspired by classic Southern dirty rice, it’s built around simple ingredients like rice, chorizo, and spices you probably already have. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping a weeknight meal, this dish delivers big taste from humble ingredients.
Serve it as-is or pair it with a side of beans or a fried egg for extra protein. Leftovers keep well in the fridge or freezer, so it’s a great choice for make-ahead meals and busy days.
Stretch & Save
- Replace chorizo with ground sausage or leftover cooked meat to stretch the protein budget.
- Use water instead of broth — the chorizo provides plenty of flavor.
- Add a small can of beans for an even heartier meal.
- Double the rice and liquid to make this feed a crowd affordably.
- Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.
If you love budget-friendly one-pan meals, check out our Stretch & Save tips for turning leftovers into something new.
For more information on safe cooking temperatures and handling cooked rice, visit FoodSafety.gov.
