Description

Experience the comforting flavors of authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice. This recipe delivers a soulful, creamy, and deeply savory dish, perfect for any day of the week. Learn how to make this Southern classic from scratch with simple ingredients and a lot of love. Serve it hot over fluffy white rice for a truly satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound dried red beans, picked over and rinsed
1 pound smoked sausage (like andouille or kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
3 celery stalks, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
Cooked white rice, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Soak the beans overnight or use the quick soak method. Drain and rinse.
2. Brown the sliced smoked sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven, then remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery in the rendered sausage fat until softened.
4. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in dried thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
5. Return the sausage to the pot. Add the drained red beans and broth (or water).
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beans are very tender and creamy. Stir frequently.
7. Remove bay leaves. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
8. Simmer uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until desired creaminess is reached. Mash some beans against the pot if desired for thickness.
9. Serve hot over cooked white rice, garnished with fresh parsley, and with hot sauce on the side if desired.

Notes

Store completely cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the beans have become too thick.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: Approx. 450-550 (varies based on sausage and rice)
Sugar: Approx. 5g
Sodium: Approx. 800mg (varies greatly based on sausage and added salt)
Fat: Approx. 15g
Carbohydrates: Approx. 60g
Fiber: Approx. 15g
Protein: Approx. 25g