Description
Authentic Red Beans and Rice is a classic Cajun comfort food packed with bold Creole flavor, smoky andouille sausage, and tender kidney beans. Simmered with aromatic vegetables and spices, this hearty one-pot dish is soul-satisfying, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
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1 lb dry kidney beans
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¼ cup olive oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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2 Tbsp minced garlic
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6 cups water (for beans)
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2 bay leaves
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1 Tbsp dried parsley
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp Cajun seasoning
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½ tsp cayenne pepper
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¼ tsp dried sage
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1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
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4 cups water (for rice)
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2 cups long-grain white rice
Instructions
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Rinse kidney beans and soak overnight in water.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
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Drain beans and place in a large pot with 6 cups of water. Add sautéed vegetables.
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Stir in bay leaves, parsley, thyme, Cajun seasoning, cayenne, and sage. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 2½ hours.
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Add sausage and simmer for 30 minutes more.
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Meanwhile, cook rice: Combine 4 cups of water and 2 cups of rice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
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Serve beans and sausage over rice. Optional: Add hot sauce for extra heat.
Notes
Soaking beans overnight helps them cook evenly and faster.
Mash a few beans at the end to naturally thicken the broth.
Substitute smoked turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Freezes well—ideal for batch cooking and meal prep.
If using canned beans, reduce cooking time and skip soaking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Plats
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun / Creole