Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Toast the Rice:
Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it, enhancing the flavor.

Add Seasonings and Broth:
Sprinkle in smoked paprika, dried thyme, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer Until Done:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve:
Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy!