Do Share Recipe

Red Beans and Rice Recipe: A Southern Favorite I Keep Coming Back To

I’ve made this red beans and rice recipe so many times, and it never fails to satisfy. The smoky sausage, the tender beans, the bold spices—everything just blends so perfectly. It’s hearty, flavorful, and makes the kitchen smell amazing.

If you love comforting meals that feel like a warm hug, this one’s for you. And hey, if you’re into comfort food like my Southern Crockpot Green Beans Recipe, you’re going to love this too!

Ingredients That Make It So Good

Here’s everything you need to create this classic Creole-inspired meal. I also added a few notes to help you get the best flavor and texture.

1 pound dry red beans – Soak overnight for even cooking and perfect softness.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps brown the sausage and build flavor in the pot.
12 to 14 ounces andouille sausage, sliced into ¼-inch pieces – Smoky and spicy, traditional for Louisiana recipes.
½ tablespoon butter – Adds richness to the veggie sauté.
6 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a deep, aromatic flavor.
1 large yellow onion, diced – Gives the base its sweetness and depth.
2 celery ribs, diced – Essential in Creole cuisine (part of the “holy trinity”).
1 small red bell pepper, diced – Adds sweetness and color.
1 small green bell pepper, diced – Brings a slight bitterness that balances flavors.
6 to 7 cups low sodium vegetable broth – Or use chicken broth for added richness.
2 bay leaves – Infuse the dish with warm herbal notes.
½ cup chopped fresh parsley – Adds brightness and color.
¼ cup chopped fresh green onions – Great for garnish and mild onion flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste as the broth and sausage may already be salty.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Earthy herb that boosts depth.
½ teaspoon dried thyme – For a subtle peppery note.
½ teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a hint of sweetness.
⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper – Optional for heat lovers!
Freshly ground black pepper to taste – Use generously for balance.

Note: This recipe makes approximately 6 hearty servings.

Fun Variations You Can Try

Want to mix it up a little? Here are a few ways to change the recipe while keeping the comfort intact. Perfect if you’re looking to expand your dinner recipes collection.

Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for depth.
Spicier Kick: Add more cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Meat Options: Try smoked turkey legs or ham hocks instead of sausage.
Low-Carb Version: Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
Dairy-Free: The butter can easily be replaced with olive oil or plant-based margarine.

Cooking Time Breakdown

Here’s how long it takes to bring this dish from prep to plate:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need in the Kitchen

A few key tools help make this recipe easier and more efficient:

Dutch oven or large pot – For even cooking and simmering all ingredients.
Wooden spoon – Great for stirring and scraping browned bits off the bottom.
Knife and cutting board – For prepping your vegetables and sausage.
Measuring spoons and cups – Ensures accurate flavor and liquid balance.
Ladle – Handy for serving directly from the pot.

How to Make Red Beans and Rice Recipe?

Let’s get into the step-by-step cooking process. It’s easy once you’ve got everything prepped.

Soak the Beans

Start by soaking your red beans in a bowl of water for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps them cook evenly and become creamy on the inside.

Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and let it brown until golden on both sides. This adds a smoky flavor base. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside.

Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, melt the butter and toss in the onions. Cook until they turn soft and translucent. Then add celery, red and green bell peppers, and garlic. Let them cook for a few minutes until everything is slightly softened.

Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in the dried herbs—oregano, thyme, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it cook for another minute. This step releases the oils in the spices, boosting flavor.

Build the Base

Pour in your broth (vegetable or chicken) and use your spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits are gold when it comes to taste.

Simmer with Beans

Add your soaked red beans, the browned sausage, and the bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally.

Thicken the Texture

Once the beans are tender, take out about 1 cup of beans, mash them with a fork or spoon, and stir them back into the pot. This makes the dish extra creamy without adding cream.

Finish with Fresh Herbs

Stir in chopped parsley and green onions. Let it simmer for a final 5 to 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve It Up!

Spoon your red beans mixture over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with extra parsley or green onions if you like.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my own experience, here are a few tips that make this dish even more amazing:

Always soak the beans overnight. It shortens the cooking time and gives them a creamier texture.
Browning the sausage before simmering builds a deep, rich base of flavor.
Use fresh herbs if possible—they brighten up the dish just before serving.
Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking at the bottom.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. Sometimes the salt level can change as the dish reduces.

How to Serve Red Beans and Rice Recipe?

This dish is so filling, you really don’t need much on the side. But here are some fun serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Over Fluffy Rice: Classic pairing that balances the saucy beans.
With Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the spices.
Garnished with Hot Sauce and Green Onions: For added flavor and presentation.
As a Side to BBQ or Fried Chicken: Add variety to your Southern-style dinner table.

You can also learn our guide about the French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe. This dish is best served hot and with love!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition for one serving of red beans and rice:

Calories: 540 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fat: 25g

It’s a wholesome and satisfying meal full of plant-based protein and fiber.

How to Store the Red Beans and Rice

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for 4 to 5 days.
Freeze: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just portion it out for easy future meals.
Reheat: Warm it on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

If you’re wondering what makes this recipe so special, here’s why it’s a keeper:

Simple to Make: Just a few steps and easy ingredients.
Packed with Flavor: Smoky, spicy, and herby—all in one bite.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day!
Customizable: Easy to switch up for various dietary needs.
Comfort in a Bowl: Like a hug on a rainy day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Keep your red beans and rice delicious by avoiding these errors:

Skipping the Soak: Unsoaked beans take forever to cook and may stay hard.
Over-salting Early: Wait until the end to adjust salt after flavors blend.
Undercooking the Veggies: Make sure they’re soft before adding liquids.
Using Too Much Heat: Simmer gently to avoid burning the bottom.
Not Mashing Some Beans: This step gives the creamy consistency.

More Info for a Better Experience

Want to make it even creamier? Add a spoonful of cooked rice directly into the pot before serving.
Trying it for a party? Double the batch—it’s always a hit.
Want to impress guests? Serve it with a side of chilled coleslaw or pickled onions for contrast.
Craving more Southern classics? Pair this with fried okra or sweet tea for the full experience.

Ben Carraoli