Description
This Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a rich, smoky, and comforting dish, slow-cooked to perfection with Cajun spices, tender beans, and savory sausage. It’s a soul-warming meal that’s both budget-friendly and packed with bold flavors!
Ingredients
For the Red Beans:
- 1 lb dried red beans, soaked overnight & drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
For Serving:
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics & Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and sauté until softened (5 minutes).
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add sliced sausage and cook for another 5 minutes, until slightly browned.
2️⃣ Add the Beans & Spices:
Stir in red beans, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, black pepper, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, and hot sauce.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3️⃣ Simmer Until Tender:
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1.5 – 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
If beans get too thick, add a little more broth or water.
4️⃣ Mash & Thicken:
Once beans are tender, mash about ½ cup of the beans with a spoon for a creamier texture.
Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
Spoon beans over hot cooked rice, garnish with green onions & parsley.
Notes
✔️ No Time to Soak Beans? Use canned red beans, reduce cooking time to 30 minutes.
✔️ Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
✔️ Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
✔️ Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 4 days or freezes for 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 25g