Louisiana Red Beans And Rice Recipe

There's nothing quite like the hearty, smoky aroma of Louisiana Red Beans and Rice simmering on the stovetop. This classic Southern comfort food is a soul-warming dish that's both rich in flavor and steeped in tradition.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with red beans and rice during a family trip to New Orleans, where every bite seemed to tell a story. Since then, it’s become a staple in our home, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your menu.

Why You'll Love This Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Get ready to discover your new go-to comfort dish. This Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe is everything you want in a meal—delicious, satisfying, and packed with authentic Creole flavors.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With a bit of chopping and a slow simmer, this one-pot wonder practically cooks itself, freeing you up to relax or tackle other tasks.

The flavor is unbeatable, thanks to a smoky blend of andouille sausage, Creole spices, and tender red beans that absorb every drop of seasoning as they cook. Each bite offers the perfect balance of heat and earthiness.

This dish is budget-friendly and makes a large batch, so it’s ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd. A pot of red beans and rice can stretch to feed your family all week long, and it tastes even better the next day.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a hearty side, this recipe is easy to adapt with your favorite proteins, seasonings, or vegetarian substitutions.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Louisiana Red Beans and Rice lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building this iconic dish.

The red beans are the star of the show. Traditionally, dried kidney beans are soaked overnight and slow-cooked to achieve the creamy texture that defines this dish. If you’re short on time, canned beans can work in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be quite as robust.

Andouille sausage adds a smoky, spicy kick that sets this recipe apart. If you prefer a milder flavor, smoked sausage or kielbasa makes a great substitute.

A classic mirepoix of diced onion, bell pepper, and celery forms the flavor foundation. Known as the “holy trinity” in Creole cuisine, this aromatic trio brings depth and balance to the dish.

The Creole seasoning is what ties everything together. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme, this blend provides the signature heat and boldness of Louisiana cooking.

Finally, you’ll need long-grain white rice, cooked separately to fluffy perfection. This neutral base complements the bold flavors of the beans and ensures each bite is hearty and satisfying.

How To Make This Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Making authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a straightforward process that rewards you with layers of bold, smoky flavor. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Start by rinsing and soaking your dried red beans overnight in a large pot of water. This step helps the beans cook faster and more evenly. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them before adding to the pot.

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.

Next, sauté your holy trinity of onions, bell peppers, and celery in the same pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

Pour in your soaked beans along with chicken broth and enough water to cover the beans by about an inch. Stir in your Creole seasoning, a couple of bay leaves, and a dash of hot sauce for extra heat. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.

Cover the pot and cook for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and creamy. If the liquid reduces too much, add a bit more water or broth to maintain the right consistency.

While the beans cook, prepare your white rice according to the package instructions. Fluff the rice with a fork and keep it warm until ready to serve.

Once the beans are done, return the sausage to the pot and simmer for another 15 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional hot sauce as needed.

Serve the red beans ladled over a bed of rice, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.

Storage Options

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a fantastic dish to make ahead and store for later. The flavors only deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled beans and rice to separate airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to freeze the dish, place the beans (without the rice) in freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the beans in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave the rice separately or steam it to restore its fluffy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the depth of flavor.

Swap the andouille sausage for diced ham, leftover roast chicken, or even shrimp for a twist on the classic.

If you’re looking for a spicier kick, add extra cayenne or a finely chopped jalapeño to the pot. Conversely, reduce the spice for a milder dish by omitting hot sauce and adjusting the Creole seasoning.

Try serving your red beans and rice with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the sauce. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven.

Feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your taste. However you prepare it, this Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy!

Print