Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a beloved staple in Louisiana cuisine, known for its rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of tender beans, savory sausage, and a mix of flavorful spices creates a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 lb smoked sausage or Andouille sausage, sliced

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• 2 bay leaves

• 4 cups chicken broth

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 cups cooked white rice (for serving)

• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.

2. Add the minced garlic and sliced sausage to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the sausage is browned.

3. Stir in the thyme, paprika, cayenne (if using), and bay leaves. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.

4. Add the soaked and drained red beans to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.

6. Season the beans with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

7. Serve the red beans over a bed of cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 2 hours

• Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms for a hearty flavor.

• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a couple of dashes of hot sauce to kick up the heat.

• Add Greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.

• Different Meats: Instead of sausage, you can use smoked turkey or ham hocks for a different protein source.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover red beans and rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Let the beans cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat the beans and rice on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can substitute canned red beans. If using canned, reduce the cooking time to around 30-40 minutes and skip the soaking step.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for several days. It actually gets better with time as the flavors continue to develop.

What type of sausage should I use?

Andouille sausage is a classic choice for this dish, but you can use any smoked sausage or even kielbasa depending on your preference.

How do I know when the beans are cooked properly?

The beans should be tender but not mushy. Taste a few to check for doneness. If they’re still firm, continue simmering and add more liquid if necessary.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this in a slow cooker. After sautéing the vegetables and sausage, add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Increase the cayenne pepper, or add more hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the dish. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes while serving.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative to white rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased ingredients.

What can I serve with Louisiana red beans and rice?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, collard greens, or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the beans and sausage.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a flavorful, filling dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, smoky sausage, and creamy beans, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make, versatile, and can be stored for later enjoyment. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a crowd, this dish will never disappoint.