Go Back
+ servings
Red Beans and Rice

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

This Red Beans and Rice recipe is a comforting classic, blending tender kidney beans and smoky sausage for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Beans
  • 1 pound dry kidney beans Soak overnight or use quick soak method.
  • 6 cups water Adjust as needed throughout cooking.
  • 2 pieces bay leaves Remove before serving.
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley Fresh parsley can be a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Consider using fresh thyme for more flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust for spice preferences.
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Increase or decrease for preferred spice level.
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage Can be omitted if not available.
For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can be substituted with other oils.
  • 1 large onion, chopped Yellow onions or shallots work well.
  • 1 large green bell pepper, chopped Red or yellow bell peppers can be used.
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped Essential part of the 'holy trinity'.
  • 3 cloves minced garlic Garlic powder can be a substitute.
For the Protein
  • 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced Can substitute with smoked kielbasa or chorizo.
For Serving
  • 2 cups long grain white rice Essential for traditional presentation.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by rinsing the dry kidney beans under cold water to remove any debris. Then, soak the beans overnight in a large bowl of water. If short on time, boil the beans for 5 minutes, then let them rest for 1 hour. Drain the beans after soaking.
    Red Beans and Rice
  2. In a large pot, combine the soaked kidney beans with fresh water, bay leaves, parsley, thyme, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and optional sage. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, reduce to low and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until tender. Add water as needed.
    Red Beans and Rice
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and chopped celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
    Red Beans and Rice
  4. Add sliced andouille sausage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy.
    Red Beans and Rice
  5. Once the beans are tender, add the sausage and vegetable mixture to the pot. Pour in the water and stir. Simmer for another 30 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
    Red Beans and Rice
  6. Prepare long grain white rice according to package instructions. Typically, boil water, add rice, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until fluffy. Fluff with a fork before serving.
    Red Beans and Rice
  7. Serve the Red Beans and Rice warm over a scoop of fluffy white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley.
    Red Beans and Rice

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 15gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Soaking the beans enhances texture and reduces cooking time. Mash some beans for a thicker consistency if desired.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!