Name: Red Beans And Rice Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound dry red beans; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 12 to 14 ounces andouille sausage (cut into 1/4-inch slices); 1/2 tablespoon butter; 1 large yellow onion (diced); 2 celery ribs (diced); 1 small red bell pepper (diced); 1 small green bell pepper (diced); 6 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne red pepper (or to taste); Freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 6 to 7 cups low sodium vegetable broth (you can also use chicken broth); 2 bay leaves; 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish); 1/4 cup chopped fresh green onions (plus more for garnish); 1 1/2 cups long grain brown rice or white rice (cooked according to the package directions)

Jump to Recipe

Nothing says comfort like a big bowl of hearty, soulful Red Beans And Rice Recipe straight from the heart of Louisiana. This classic dish combines smoky andouille sausage, creamy red beans, a medley of colorful veggies, and just the right touches of spice—all simmered to perfection and served over fluffy, steaming rice. Every bite delivers layers of savory flavor, making this Red Beans And Rice Recipe a family favorite that both warms the belly and sparks the tastebuds. Whether you’re gathering friends for a weeknight meal or prepping a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is the kind you’ll come back to time and again.

Red Beans And Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Red Beans And Rice is a shining example of how humble, simple ingredients can create something truly special. Each element in this Red Beans And Rice Recipe serves a purpose: building flavor, creating heartiness, or adding vibrant color to your bowl. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why it’s essential.

Dry red beans: These are the soul of the dish; soaking them overnight gives you the perfect creamy texture once cooked.
Olive oil: Used for browning the sausage and building a rich base layer of flavor before the veggies go in.
Andouille sausage: Smoky, garlicky, and just a touch spicy—this sausage gives deep Cajun flavor to the whole pot.
Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies until sweet and tender.
Yellow onion: Classic aromatic that sweetens as it cooks and forms the backbone of the “holy trinity” of Cajun veggies.
Celery ribs: Offers crunch and a subtle earthiness; balances out the stronger flavors.
Red bell pepper: Brings a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
Green bell pepper: Adds brightness and classic Southern flavor; essential for that authentic taste.
Garlic: Six cloves for savory depth; don’t skimp!
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
Dried oregano: An herbaceous note that lifts the earthy beans.
Dried thyme: Lends a gentle, woodsy spice that plays beautifully with the sausage and beans.
Paprika: Gives color, warmth, and a subtle smokiness.
Cayenne red pepper: For that oh-so-important Cajun heat—add more or less to taste.
Freshly ground black pepper: Offers fragrant, spicy undertones.
Vegetable broth: Opt for low sodium—this is what ties everything together and gives the beans a rich, savory bath to cook in.
Bay leaves: Infuse slow-cooked herbal flavor throughout the simmer.
Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and freshness when stirred in at the end.
Fresh green onions: Classic Southern garnish; adds a final pop of flavor and crunch.
Long grain brown or white rice: The perfect base; soaks up every bit of that lush, spicy sauce.

How to Make Red Beans And Rice Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Beans

Put your dry red beans in a large soup pot or big bowl and cover them with water—the water should rise about two inches above the beans. Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This simple step is the secret to achieving irresistibly creamy beans, and it helps them cook evenly and tenderly the next day.

Step 2: Brown the Andouille Sausage

Once you’re ready to cook, heat up the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Toss in all those glorious andouille sausage slices and brown them on both sides for a deep, smoky flavor. Stir frequently to make sure they brown evenly but don’t burn. Once they’re perfect, scoop them out and set aside—they’ll return to the pot soon!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the butter to your pot (don’t skip it for that rich flavor!) and let it melt. Pour in the diced onions and let them soften for about three minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the celery and both bell peppers, cooking everything together for about four more minutes. If things look a bit dry, add a little extra butter. Finally, toss in the minced garlic and give it a quick fifteen-second sauté—just until fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in the Seasonings and Broth

Now for the flavor fireworks! Sprinkle in the salt, dried oregano, thyme, paprika, cayenne, and a shake or two of black pepper. Let the spices cook for about a minute, stirring to toast and wake them up. Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release all the delicious browned bits. This step locks in tons of savory goodness for your Red Beans And Rice Recipe.

Step 5: Add the Beans and Sausage

Drain and rinse your soaked beans, then add them back into the pot along with the browned andouille sausage. Give everything a hearty stir so all the flavors get friendly.

Step 6: Simmer

Nestle the bay leaves into the pot and turn the heat up to high. As soon as your mixture reaches a bubbling boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Check for doneness starting around the 1-1/2 hour mark. The beans should be soft but not falling apart, with skins that are still slightly firm.

Step 7: Mash the Beans

When the beans are tender and creamy, fish out the bay leaves and set them aside. Scoop about a cup of beans into a bowl and mash them up with the back of a fork, then return the mashed beans to the pot and stir well. This trick thickens your Red Beans And Rice Recipe into that classic, luscious texture.

Step 8: Adjust

If the mixture is too thick for your liking, add up to a cup of water or extra broth and stir. Give it a taste and tweak the salt, pepper, and spices as you see fit—make it just how you like it.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Stir in the chopped parsley and green onions, letting everything simmer together for an extra five minutes. Remove from the heat and get ready to serve generous spoonfuls over bowls of fresh, steamy rice. It’s time to dig in!

How to Serve Red Beans And Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A classic Red Beans And Rice Recipe loves a vibrant garnish! Sprinkle plenty of chopped fresh parsley and green onions over the top just before serving. For extra Southern flair, add a shake of hot sauce or even a few jalapeño slices for those who crave a bit more heat. A wedge of lemon on the side brings a pop of citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want the full Southern experience, serve it with warm, crusty French bread (perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce) or a fresh green salad to lighten things up. Cornbread or simple sautéed greens, like collards or spinach, also make classic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or potluck twist, serve your Red Beans And Rice Recipe in individual ramekins or wide mugs for easy handheld enjoyment. You can even make “red bean bowls” with a scoop of rice in the center, ringed by beans and finished with toppings like sliced avocado or crispy fried shallots. It’s a wonderful way to show off both color and care to your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover red beans and rice to airtight containers once fully cooled. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to four days, and the flavors only get better after resting overnight! Make sure to store the rice and beans separately if possible to prevent the rice from becoming overly soft.

Freezing

Red Beans And Rice Recipe is a dream for meal prepping because it freezes beautifully. Let the beans cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (again, store rice separately for the best texture). Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat from frozen.

Reheating

Reheat your beans gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen them up if needed. For rice, a quick zap in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the bowl keeps things soft and steamy. Combine just before serving for the tastiest results.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned red beans in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and rinse them, and reduce the simmering time significantly—about 30 minutes will do. Keep in mind, the texture won’t be quite as creamy as with dried beans, but it will still be delicious.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Red Beans And Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add extra vegetables, like diced carrots or additional bell peppers. For extra savory depth, toss in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to mimic that traditional flavor.

What type of rice works best here?

Either long grain white or brown rice works wonderfully in a Red Beans And Rice Recipe. White rice yields a fluffier, more classic result, while brown rice brings a bit of chew and a mild nutty flavor. Just follow package directions for perfect results.

Can I make this dish in advance?

You bet! This recipe is even tastier the next day after the flavors have melded together. Make it up to two days ahead, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving for an even richer bowl of comfort.

What if I don’t have andouille sausage?

If you can’t find andouille, look for smoked sausage or kielbasa as a substitute. You’ll still get plenty of delicious, savory depth, though the signature Cajun kick may be a touch milder.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a hearty, homemade Red Beans And Rice Recipe—it’s pure comfort in a bowl, full of tradition and soul. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or already love Cajun classics, give this dish a try and let it warm your home (and your heart!). I can’t wait for you to taste just how wonderful this classic recipe can be.