What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- It’s packed with rich, smoky flavors from andouille sausage and spices.
- The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
- It’s a budget-friendly, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Recipe
A classic staple of Creole cuisine, Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe combines tender red beans, savory spices, and smoky sausage, served over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
1 pound dry red kidney beans (soaked overnight)
1 pound smoked sausage (sliced)
1 large onion (chopped)
1 green bell pepper (chopped)
3 celery stalks (chopped)
4 garlic cloves (minced)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
6 cups chicken broth
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 cups cooked white rice
Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beans, smoked sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for about 2-2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the mixture has thickened.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves.
- Serve the red beans over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes:
For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
Cook Time: 2.5 hours
Serving: 6-8 people
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Cuisine: Creole
Nutrition
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
When I make Louisiana red beans and rice, I always think about pairing it with warm, buttery cornbread, which balances the dish perfectly.
For classic side options, I like adding a fresh green salad or crispy collard greens to round out the meal. These choices keep the flavors interesting while complementing the hearty main dish.
Cornbread Pairings
If you’ve got a plate of warm, buttery cornbread in front of you, you’re already off to a great start, but let’s make it even better.
Start by experimenting with cornbread variations—try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or cheddar for a rich, cheesy twist. Sweet options like honey or corn kernels can balance savory meals perfectly.
For flavor combinations, drizzle your cornbread with honey butter or pair it with a tangy pimento cheese spread. A bowl of chili or a hearty stew alongside cornbread is a match made in comfort food heaven.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match based on your mood!
Classic Side Dishes
Now that we’ve figured out how to make cornbread shine, let’s talk about what else can round out a meal. When I serve Louisiana red beans and rice, I love pairing it with classic comfort sides that bring warmth to the table.
Think about steamed collard greens, sautéed with garlic and a splash of vinegar—they’re a Southern staple. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with red onions and vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast.
Corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with paprika, is another favorite. These traditional ingredients keep the meal hearty, balanced, and full of flavor.
