Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

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Delicious plate of Louisiana red beans and rice with sausage, served in a bowl.
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I love making Louisiana Red Beans and Rice. It warms me up and brings back so many memories of family gatherings. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a dish I crave often.

My sister Jennifer would always ask me to make this when we visited Dad James. He would tell stories of his childhood in Louisiana, making every bite taste even better. It’s such a joy to share this recipe with all of you.

Your Ingredients List

  • 1 pound red beans
  • 1/2 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups long grain rice
  • 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions, for garnish

My Go-To Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Cooking pot for rice

The Simple Steps to Follow

  • Soak the red beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse.
  • In a large pot, brown the Andouille sausage over medium heat, then remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.
  • Add the soaked red beans, chicken broth, Creole seasoning, and the cooked sausage back into the pot.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours until the beans are tender.
  • Cook the rice according to package instructions.
  • Serve the red beans over rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

 

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Healthy Twists on a Classic

You can make a lighter version of this dish by using turkey sausage instead of Andouille sausage. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or kale to boost nutrition. Substituting brown rice for white is another great way to add fiber and maintain a wholesome feel.

Serving Suggestions From My Table

I love serving this dish with a side salad or cornbread. A simple green salad adds freshness, while cornbread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices. I also enjoy pairing it with hot sauce for those who like an extra kick.

Getting It Just Right

Make sure to properly soak your beans; it helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time. Keep an eye on the simmering pot. If it seems too thick, just add a little extra broth or water. The perfect red beans and rice should be creamy and flavorful.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to help bring back the creamy texture. You can also freeze individual portions for later use!

Enjoy Every Moment

Cooking is more than just food; it’s about the memories we create while sharing meals. I hope this Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe warms your heart and fills your kitchen with love.

A Few Common Questions

How can I make Louisiana Red Beans and Rice vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Feel free to add extra beans or your favorite vegetables for added flavor.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans for Louisiana Red Beans and Rice?

Yes, you can use canned red beans. Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot. Skip the soaking and adjust the cooking time. Simmer for about 30 minutes to blend the flavors.

What can I serve with Louisiana Red Beans and Rice?

This dish pairs perfectly with cornbread, a fresh salad, or some fried plantains. You can also add coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. Enjoy experimenting with various sides that you love!

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louisiana red beans and rice 2025 12 03 101328 150x150 1 Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

  • Author: sarah
  • Total Time: 100 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Omnivore
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Description

A comforting Louisiana classic that combines rich flavors with tender red beans and rice, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound red beans
  • 1/2 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups long grain rice
  • 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Soak the red beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse.
  2. In a large pot, brown the Andouille sausage over medium heat, then remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.
  4. Add the soaked red beans, chicken broth, Creole seasoning, and the cooked sausage back into the pot.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 60-90 minutes until the beans are tender.
  6. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
  7. Serve the red beans over rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

Notes

For a healthier version, use turkey sausage and add more vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 90 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Louisiana

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Louisiana, red beans, rice, comfort food, family recipe

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