7 Irresistible Red Beans and Rice Recipe Secrets

Red Beans and Rice Recipe lovers, this one’s for you! Few dishes are as soul-satisfying as a warm bowl of red beans and rice. Growing up, this was a staple in our kitchen, especially on Mondays—a tradition rooted in
New Orleans culinary history,
where families used the start of the week to simmer beans while tending to chores.

Whether craving a cozy winter meal or a flavorful summer feast, this red beans and rice recipe is a year-round winner that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Red Beans and Rice Recipe

• Packed with flavour thanks to smoked sausage, Creole seasoning, and aromatic veggies.
• Perfect for meal prep—it tastes even better the next day!
• One-pot wonder that minimises cleanup.
• Customizable for vegetarians or spice lovers.

Ingredients

For the Beans

• 1 lb dried red kidney beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (green or red), chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb smoked sausage (Andouille works beautifully), sliced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1½ tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups chicken broth (or water with bouillon)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water or broth
• 1 tbsp butter or oil
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Soak and Prep the Beans (If Using Dried)

1. Rinse the beans under cold water.
2. Soak overnight or do a quick soak by boiling and letting sit for 1 hour.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

1. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 3: Add the Sausage and Seasonings

1. Add sliced sausage and brown for about 5 minutes.
2. Mix in paprika, thyme, Creole seasoning, and bay leaf.

Step 4: Simmer the Beans

1. Add chicken broth and beans.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook:
   • Dried beans: 1.5–2 hours
   • Canned beans: 30–40 minutes
3. Stir and mash some beans for creaminess.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

1. Combine rice, water, butter, and salt in a pot.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 18 minutes.
3. Let rest, then fluff with a fork. Learn more about how to perfect rice.

Step 6: Season and Serve

1. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Discard the bay leaf.
3. Serve over rice and garnish with parsley or green onions.

Tips & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add liquid smoke.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or hot sauce.
• Creamier Beans: Mash some beans in the pot.
• Freezer-Friendly: Lasts up to 3 months frozen.

What to Serve with Red Beans and Rice

• Cornbread
• Fried green tomatoes
• Collard greens
• Fresh green salad
• Or make a full bean-themed dinner by pairing it with these
  Easy Ultimate Baked Beans.

A Dish with Deep Roots

This beloved meal represents the cultural melting pot of the American South. Influenced by French, African, and Spanish cuisines, red beans and rice became iconic in Louisiana, particularly in Creole homes, which paired it with leftovers and tradition.

Share Your Experience!

Have you made this red beans and rice recipe? Share your family tweaks, spice levels, and memories in the comments! I’d love to hear your story