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Red Beans and Rice

Red Beans and Rice Recipe

This classic red beans and rice recipe is comforting, easy, and full of flavor. Learn how to make Louisiana-style red beans at home for any day of the week.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb dry red kidney beans rinsed and soaked overnight
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb andouille or smoked sausage sliced into coins
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
  • 6 cups chicken broth or water
  • 4 cups cooked white rice
  • Hot sauce for serving
  • Chopped green onions and fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Soak the Beans (Overnight or Quick Soak)
  • Rinse your dry beans well. Place in a big pot, cover with cold water by 2 inches, and soak overnight. Or do a quick soak: boil for 5 minutes, then cover and rest for 1 hour.
  • Sauté the Holy Trinity (5 minutes)
  • In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in bell pepper, onion, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
  • Add Garlic and Sausage (5 minutes)
  • Stir in garlic and sliced sausage. Cook for another 5 minutes, letting the sausage brown slightly.
  • Season and Simmer (1.5–2 hours)
  • Drain the beans and add to the pot. Pour in chicken broth, bay leaves, cayenne, paprika, thyme, black pepper, and Creole seasoning. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 90 minutes to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and creamy.
  • Mash for Creaminess (Optional)
  • If you like thicker beans, mash some against the side of the pot with a spoon.
  • Cook the Rice
  • Meanwhile, cook your rice according to package instructions. Fluffy rice is a must!
  • Serve and Garnish
  • Remove bay leaves. Serve beans over warm rice. Top with green onions, parsley, and a splash of hot sauce.

Notes

  • Soak your beans overnight to shorten cooking time and improve texture.
  • Mashing some beans helps get that classic creamy texture.
  • This freezes beautifully — perfect for meal prep!
Keyword red beans and rice recipe, Louisiana red beans, beans and rice, Creole beans