Red Beans and Rice Recipe

A Hearty and Comforting Meal

Red beans and rice is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This meal has deep roots in Southern and Creole cooking, known for its rich flavors and simple ingredients. It’s a dish that has stood the test of time, passed down through generations because of its affordability, ease of preparation, and delicious taste.

What makes red beans and rice so special? It’s a one-pot meal that requires minimal effort but delivers big flavor. The beans cook slowly with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and spices, creating a thick and flavorful sauce.

When served over fluffy rice, the combination is satisfying and filling. This dish is also highly customizable—you can add sausage or ham or keep it completely vegetarian.

I love making red beans and rice because it’s perfect for busy days when I want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great way to feed a crowd on a budget.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a meal prep option for the week, or a cozy dish for a chilly day, this recipe fits right in. Plus, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend!

About Red Beans and Rice

Red beans and rice is a traditional Louisiana dish with a rich history. It was originally a Monday meal in Creole households because Mondays were laundry days, and the dish could simmer on the stove with little attention. The slow cooking process deepened the flavors, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Unlike other bean-based dishes, red beans and rice have a smoky, slightly spicy flavor, thanks to ingredients like Andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, and sometimes a ham hock.

While many cultures have their version of beans and rice, the Louisiana-style dish stands out for its thick, creamy texture and bold seasonings. It’s different from Cuban black beans and rice or Mexican-style beans and rice because of its unique blend of spices and slow-cooked richness.

Why You’ll Love It

1. Budget-Friendly & Filling – This dish is made with inexpensive ingredients like beans, rice, and simple seasonings, making it an affordable way to feed the whole family.
2. Flavorful & Comforting – The slow-cooked beans soak up all the spices, creating a bold and rich taste that’s both comforting and satisfying.
3. Easy to Make – This dish comes together effortlessly with just a little chopping and stirring. You can even use canned beans for a quicker version!
4. Perfect for Meal Prep – It tastes even better the next day, so you can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
5. Customizable – Whether you prefer it with sausage, ham, or completely meat-free, you can easily adjust this recipe to fit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Beans:

• 1 pound dried red beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 smoked ham hock or ½ pound Andouille sausage, sliced (optional)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water
• ½ teaspoon salt

Garnish (Optional but Recommended!):

• Chopped green onions
• Fresh parsley
• Hot sauce

Ingredient Notes

• Dried vs. Canned Beans – If using dried beans, soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture. Canned beans work in a pinch but won’t have the same thick, creamy consistency.
• Sausage or Ham? – Andouille sausage gives a smoky, spicy kick, while a ham hock adds a deep, meaty flavor. You can use both or skip them for a vegetarian version.
• Cajun Seasoning – Store-bought works fine, but homemade Cajun seasoning is even better! Adjust the spice level to your liking.
• Rice Choice – Long-grain white rice is traditional, but you can swap it for brown rice for a heartier, nuttier taste. Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook.
• Extra Heat – Love spice? Add a diced jalapeño with the onions or a dash of hot sauce before serving!

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven – Essential for cooking the beans evenly and allowing the flavors to develop. A heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven retains heat well.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife – For chopping onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic. A sturdy wooden or plastic board works best.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Great for stirring the beans without scratching the pot.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Helps with getting the right balance of seasonings and liquid.
• Strainer or Colander – If using canned beans, you’ll need this to rinse off excess sodium. Also useful for draining soaked dried beans.
• Rice Cooker or Medium Saucepan – A rice cooker makes cooking rice foolproof, but a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid works just as well.
• Ladle – Makes it easy to serve up generous portions of beans and sauce over rice.

Personal Recommendation:

I love using a Lodge Cast Iron Dutch Oven for slow-cooked meals like this. It keeps heat evenly distributed, making the beans thick and creamy! If you’re serious about meal prep, a Zojirushi Rice Cooker can make perfectly fluffy rice with zero effort.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Beans (If Using Dried Beans)

1. Rinse the dried red beans under cold water and remove any debris.
2. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight (8–12 hours).
3. Drain and rinse before using.

Pro Tip: Forgot to soak? Use the quick soak method—boil the beans for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let them sit for 1 hour before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables (About 5 Minutes)

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery (the “Holy Trinity” of Cajun cooking). Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step! The slow-cooked base of onions, peppers, and garlic adds tons of depth to the dish.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings & Beans (2 Minutes)

1. Stir in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne (if using), and Cajun seasoning.
2. Add the red beans (soaked and drained or canned) and stir to coat with the seasonings.

Step 4: Simmer the Beans (1.5–2 Hours)

1. Pour in 6 cups of water or chicken broth, then add the bay leaf and ham hock or sausage (if using).
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally.
3. Cook for 90 minutes to 2 hours, until the beans are tender and the liquid thickens into a creamy sauce.

Pro Tip: If the beans are too soupy, mash some against the side of the pot with a spoon and stir—it’ll thicken up beautifully!

Step 5: Cook the Rice (During the Last 30 Minutes)

1. Rinse 2 cups of rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil, then add the rinsed rice and ½ teaspoon of salt.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes (or follow your rice cooker’s instructions).
4. Once done, fluff with a fork and keep warm.

Step 6: Final Touches & Serve (5 Minutes)

1. Remove the bay leaf and ham hock from the beans. If using a ham hock, shred the meat and stir it back in.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—add more Cajun spice for heat or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick!
3. Spoon the beans over a serving of rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.

Now, dig in and enjoy! This dish tastes even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make extra.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Skip the Soak (If Using Dried Beans) – Soaking reduces cooking time and makes the beans easier to digest. If you’re in a hurry, the quick soak method works too!
• Mash a Few Beans for Creaminess – The secret to the perfect texture is mashing some beans against the pot’s side. This thickens the sauce naturally without adding anything extra.
• Let It Simmer Low and Slow – The longer it cooks, the better the flavor! If you have time, let it simmer a bit longer to deepen the taste.
• Adjust the Spice Level to Your Taste – Cajun seasoning, cayenne, and Andouille sausage all bring heat. If you love spice, go for it! If not, start small and add as you go.
• Make It a Meal Prep Hero – Red beans and rice taste even better the next day. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze them for an easy future meal.

---

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

• No Andouille Sausage? – Use smoked sausage, kielbasa, ham, or even bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian/Vegan Version – Skip the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding a splash of liquid smoke can help mimic that classic smoky taste.
• No Cajun Seasoning? – Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme for a homemade blend.

Variations:

• Slow Cooker Method – Dump everything in a slow cooker (except rice) and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours. Mash some beans before serving to thicken.
• Instant Pot Version – Use the sauté function for the veggies, then add the rest and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes, letting the pressure release naturally.
• Brown Rice Swap – Want more fiber? Use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase the cooking time by 15–20 minutes.
• Extra Veggies? Yes, Please! – Adding chopped carrots, zucchini, or tomatoes can add a fresh twist to this dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Style – Serve the beans over a bed of fluffy white rice with a sprinkle of green onions and a dash of hot sauce for the ultimate comfort meal.
• With Cornbread – A slice of warm, buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up the rich, savory sauce.
• With a Side of Greens – A side of sautéed collard greens or a simple green salad adds a fresh contrast to the hearty dish.
• As a Burrito Filling – Roll up the red beans and rice in a tortilla with cheese and avocado for a tasty Southern-style burrito.
• With Fried Plantains – The sweet, caramelized flavor of fried plantains pairs beautifully with the smoky beans.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors get better with time!
• Freezer: Let the beans cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Rice can be frozen separately for a better texture.

Reheating Tips:

• Stovetop: Warm the beans in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen them up. Stir occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add a bit of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
• Rice Reheating Trick: If the rice feels dry, sprinkle it with a little water before reheating to bring back its fluffy texture.

I love adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce after reheating—it brightens up the flavors and makes the dish taste freshly made!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes! Canned beans work for a quicker version. Just rinse and drain them, then reduce the cooking time to 30–40 minutes since they’re already soft. The texture won’t be as creamy as with dried beans, but it’ll still be delicious!

How do I make it less spicy?

Skip the cayenne pepper and use a mild sausage (or no sausage at all). You can also start with half the Cajun seasoning and add more later if needed.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Add all the ingredients (except rice) to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours. Mash some beans at the end to thicken the sauce.

What if my beans are still too firm after cooking?

If using dried beans, they might need more time if they weren’t soaked long enough. Just keep simmering and add more broth if needed. Also, avoid adding acidic ingredients (like tomatoes or vinegar) too early, as they can prevent beans from softening.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and leave out the sausage or ham hock. Adding liquid smoke or smoked paprika can help bring that classic smoky flavor.

How can I make this even faster?

Use canned beans, pre-chopped veggies, and a rice cooker to save time! This turns it into a 30-minute meal without sacrificing flavor.

---

I’d love to hear how this red beans and rice recipe turns out for you! Let me know in the comments—do you like yours with extra spice, or do you keep it mild? Don’t forget to share your favorite toppings and twists! Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!