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Red Beans and Rice

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Red Beans and Rice is a classic Louisiana Creole dish made with tender red beans simmered with aromatics and spices, served over fluffy white rice. It’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and large gatherings.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Creole
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dried red kidney beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 12 oz smoked sausage or andouille (optional), sliced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice
  • Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Soak beans overnight or quick soak by boiling for 5 minutes and resting for 1 hour. Drain before using.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper for 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  3. If using, add sliced sausage and brown it in the pot.
  4. Add beans, broth, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. Mash some beans with a spoon or potato masher to thicken the mixture. Simmer another 10–15 minutes.
  6. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions and hot sauce if desired.

Notes

  • For a quicker version, use canned beans and simmer for about 30 minutes instead of 2 hours.
  • Go meatless or use smoked turkey or ham hocks as a flavorful alternative to sausage.
  • Mashing some beans gives a creamy, authentic texture.
  • Add greens like kale or spinach near the end for extra nutrition.

Nutrition