Go Back
+ servings
Red Beans and Rice

Delicious Red Beans and Rice: A Soul-Warming Classic!

This Red Beans and Rice recipe combines tender kidney beans with smoky sausage for a comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Beans
  • 1 pound dry kidney beans Soak overnight or quick soak
  • 6 cups water Adjust as needed
  • 2 units bay leaves Remove before serving
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley Fresh parsley can be a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Fresh thyme is optional
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage Optional
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with other oils
  • 1 large onion, chopped Yellow onions can be used
  • 1 large green bell pepper, chopped Red or yellow bell peppers can be used
  • 2 stalks celery stalks, chopped Essential in Cajun cuisine
  • 3 cloves minced garlic Garlic powder can be substituted
For the Protein
  • 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced Alternative: smoked kielbasa or chorizo
For Serving
  • 2 cups long grain white rice Essential for serving

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • Large Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Beans and Rice
  1. Rinse the dry kidney beans under cold water to remove debris and soak them overnight.
  2. In a pot, combine soaked beans with 6 cups of water, bay leaves, parsley, thyme, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and sage. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery for 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Add sliced andouille sausage to the skillet and brown for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
  5. Incorporate the sautéed mixture with the beans and add 4 cups of water. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
  6. Prepare the rice according to package instructions, typically boiling 2 cups of water and cooking until fluffy.
  7. Serve the Red Beans and Rice warm over the fluffy rice, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 14gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor retention.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!