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Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Red Beans and Rice Recipe

4.8 from 21 reviews

This classic Southern dish of Red Beans and Rice is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With a mix of tender red kidney beans, savory andouille sausage, and a blend of aromatic spices, this Creole-inspired recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Red Beans:

  • 1 lb dried red kidney beans (rinsed and soaked overnight)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
  • 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
  • 2 celery stalks (chopped)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf

Other Ingredients:

  • 1 lb andouille sausage (sliced)
  • 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 cups cooked white rice
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish)
  • Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery, sauté until softened.
  2. Add Spices: Stir in garlic, thyme, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook until fragrant.
  3. Cook Beans: Add soaked red beans, bay leaf, sausage, and water/broth. Simmer for 1½ to 2 hours until beans are tender.
  4. Adjust Texture: Remove bay leaf and mash some beans for a creamier texture. Adjust seasoning.
  5. Serve: Serve hot over rice, garnished with green onions and hot sauce.

Notes

  • If short on time, you can use canned beans, but reduce the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.

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