Creating Dirty Rice with Ground Beef can be a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these steps to make this incredible dish:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season: Sprinkle in the paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices.
5. Add Rice: Add the rice to the skillet, stirring it into the meat and vegetable mixture.
6. Pour in Broth: Carefully pour in the beef broth or water, and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
7. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
8. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
9. Fluff the Rice: Remove the skillet from heat. Discard the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork.
10. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions. Add hot sauce if desired for extra heat.