Name: Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb dry red beans; 2 tbsp olive oil; 12-14 oz Andouille sausage, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 celery ribs, diced; 1 small red bell pepper, diced; 1 small green bell pepper, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 6-8 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth; 2 bay leaves; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped; Cooked long-grain rice (for serving)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is everything you want in comfort food—hearty, filling, and rich in flavor. With the perfect balance of beans, sausage, and spices, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. The leftovers taste even better, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

1 lb dry red beans
2 tbsp olive oil
12-14 oz Andouille sausage, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 celery ribs, diced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small green bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
6-8 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
Cooked long-grain rice (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Soak the Beans: Cover beans with water and soak for 8 hours or overnight.
Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat oil and brown the sausage on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, and bell peppers until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, and cayenne. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
Simmer: Add soaked beans, sausage, and bay leaves. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, until beans are tender.
Mash Beans: Mash a cup of beans and return them to the pot. Adjust thickness with water, if needed, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Serve: Garnish with green onions and parsley. Serve over rice.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or tofu.
Extra spicy: Add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
Use different beans: Try using pinto or kidney beans for a twist on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.

FAQs

1. Can I skip soaking the beans?

It’s best to soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly, but if you’re short on time, you can cook them without soaking, though it may take longer.

2. Can I use canned beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans, but skip the soaking and reduce cooking time.

3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, follow the same steps but cook on low for 6-8 hours instead of simmering on the stove.

4. What can I use if I can’t find Andouille sausage?

You can substitute with any smoked sausage or kielbasa for similar flavor.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add extra veggies like carrots, zucchini, or tomatoes.

6. How do I make the beans less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder dish.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish actually tastes better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep.

8. Can I use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook this recipe in an Instant Pot by using the “bean” function for about 35 minutes after sautéing the sausage and veggies.

9. How do I prevent the beans from being too mushy?

Make sure to monitor the beans as they cook and avoid overcooking. If you prefer firmer beans, you can adjust the cooking time.

10. What should I serve with this dish?

This dish is perfect with cornbread, collard greens, or a side salad.

Conclusion

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is the epitome of Southern comfort food. Packed with flavor, rich broth, and hearty beans, this dish is a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to satisfy!

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This classic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe features tender red beans, spicy Andouille sausage, and rich Creole seasonings, all simmered to perfection. A true Southern comfort food, it’s hearty, flavorful, and ideal for meal prep. This dish is easy to make, filling, and great for feeding a crowd. Enjoy it with rice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a satisfying meal!

Instructions

Soak the Beans: Cover beans with water and soak for 8 hours or overnight.
Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown the sausage on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onion, celery, and bell peppers in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, paprika, and cayenne. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
Simmer: Add soaked beans, sausage, and bay leaves. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, until beans are tender.
Mash Beans: Mash a cup of beans and return them to the pot. Adjust the thickness with water, if needed, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Serve: Garnish with green onions and parsley. Serve over rice.