Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Red Beans and Rice Recipe

8 servings
Easy Red Beans and Rice Recipe - A faster version of traditional Creole red beans and rice, this hearty recipe is made with smoked sausage, red kidney beans, and vegetables such as onion, celery, and green bell pepper.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon olive oil

    divided

  • 1 pound Smoked Andouille Sausage

    sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

  • 2 medium yellow onions

    diced

  • 3 ribs celery

    diced

  • 2 green bell peppers

    stemmed, seeded and diced

  • 5 cloves garlic

    minced

  • 1.5 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne

    plus more if desired

  • 2 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cans red kidney beans

    drained, not rinsed

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cups water or broth

    plus more as needed), (chicken stock, vegetable or beef broth

  • 2 cups white rice

    cooked according to package instructions or see notes below

  • Optional garnishes:)

    chopped parsley, green onions, cilantro, or hot sauce (like Tabasco

Directions

  1. 1

    Brown the sausage. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or pot over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pot. Once hot, add the sausage to the in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes before flipping to brown on the other side (see notes). Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

  2. 2

    The "holy trinity" (mirepoix). To the same pot over medium-low heat add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced onions, bell pepper, and celery, mixing well to combine. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and continue to cook for 1 minute.

  3. 3

    Red beans and broth. Add in the drained red beans, bay leaves, and broth (or water) to your pot. Mix well to combine and add additional liquid if needed. Increase heat and bring the red beans to a low boil. Immediately reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

  4. 4

    Return the sausage. Return the sausage back to the pot and continue to simmer for 5-10 minutes more. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste.

  5. 5

    Serve. Serve approximately 1 cup of beans and sausage in a shallow bowl topped with approximately equal amounts of rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Red Beans and Rice Recipe

60 min8 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving that rich, savory comfort of traditional Creole Red Beans and Rice but short on time? This easy recipe delivers all the hearty flavor you love in a fraction of the usual cooking time, bringing a taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This Red Beans and Rice recipe stands out as a faster version of the classic, expertly balancing convenience with authentic taste. Instead of an all-day simmer, it cleverly combines the robust flavors of smoked Andouille sausage, classic trinity vegetables (onion, celery, green bell pepper), and red kidney beans for a satisfying meal without hours of waiting. It’s a weeknight-friendly take on a beloved staple, designed for maximum flavor impact.

What to Expect

You'll discover a deeply savory, slightly spicy, and incredibly comforting dish that’s rich with the smoky notes of Andouille sausage and the earthy goodness of red kidney beans. Each spoonful offers tender beans and flavorful, diced vegetables like onion, celery, and green bell pepper, all simmered together in a wonderfully seasoned broth. The addition of Cajun seasoning, cayenne, and thyme creates a warm, complex spice profile that’s both inviting and satisfying. It’s designed to be hearty and fulfilling, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Customization & Variations

While smoked Andouille sausage is a star, you could try another smoked sausage if you prefer. For the liquid, feel free to use chicken stock, vegetable broth, or beef broth to adjust the flavor profile. Don't have quite enough heat? Add a bit more cayenne to taste. For a fresh finish, experiment with optional garnishes like chopped parsley, green onions, cilantro, or a dash of hot sauce like Tabasco.

Serving & Context

This hearty Red Beans and Rice is a perfect centerpiece for a family dinner or a comforting meal on a cool evening. It yields 8 generous servings, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prepping for the week. Serve it generously alongside your favorite cooked white rice for a truly satisfying experience.

Frequently Asked Questions