This cozy Easy Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe comes together in about 30 minutes and is made in just one pot for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that your family will love! Switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or use it as a “clean out the fridge” meal to get rid of leftovers and odds and ends! Trust me, you’ll find yourself making this comforting classic again and again!
Ingredient Breakdown
- Dried Red Beans
- Smoked Sausage or Andouille Sausage
- Onion (diced)
- Green Bell Pepper (diced)
- Celery (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Creole Seasoning
- Cayenne Pepper (optional)
- Bay Leaves
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth
- Cooked White Rice
- Green Onions (chopped)
- Fresh Parsley (chopped)
How to Make Easy Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Soak your red beans. First things first, soak the dried red beans overnight to soften them. This helps them cook faster and become creamy. If you’re crunched for time, don’t fret! You can do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes and letting them sit covered for 1 hour. Just rinse and drain those little beauties!
Sauté the aromatics. In a large pot (I recommend one that can handle simmering for a bit), heat up a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your diced onions, green bell pepper, and celery, stirring occasionally until they’ve softened up and become all wonderfully fragrant, about 5 minutes. After that, add in minced garlic and sausage, sautéing until it’s nicely browned (roughly 3 more minutes).
Add your spices and beans. Now, for the flavor magic, add in that Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling spicy), bay leaves, and those soaked red beans to the pot. Pour in enough broth to ensure the beans are fully submerged (about 4 cups should do it) and bring to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer away for 1.5 to 2 hours until those beans are nice and tender. (Pro tip: You can even mash a few beans against the pot to create a creamier texture!)
Serve it up! Once your beans are tender and happy, pile them on top of your fluffy cooked white rice. Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and fresh parsley. And voilà! Dinner is served!
My Love for This Recipe
This is my go-to recipe when I want something comforting and flavorful without spending ages in the kitchen. Honestly, I’m a real sucker for each spoonful of tender beans over fluffy rice; it’s the essence of comfort food! Plus, it’s so versatile you can use whatever you’ve got on hand, and it always turns out absolutely delicious! Even my picky eaters ask for seconds, which is saying something!
If you loved this Easy Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe, be sure to check out my Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, my Best Smothered Chicken and Rice, or my Pasta with Cannellini Beans! I think you’ll enjoy these just as much.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
This Easy Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe comes together in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re just looking for a laid-back dinner. It’s so quick that you’ll want to make it over and over, trust me!
One Pot Wonder
Everything happens in one pot! Minimal cleanup means you can enjoy your meal instead of drowning in dishes later. It’s a win-win!
Budget-Friendly
Using affordable, everyday ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank! Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for those busy weekdays.
Crowd-Pleaser
Loaded with tons of flavor, it’s genuinely a dish that the whole family will love. Even the kids will be asking for a second helping, which is always a great sign!
Customizable
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility! You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. Feeling adventurous? Add in some diced tomatoes or kale! There are endless possibilities!
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Louisiana Red Beans and Rice with a side of cornbread, garlic bread, or even a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. It pairs well with hot sauce for those who like a little extra kick.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, if it lasts that long!
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, just pop it in the microwave for a minute or two, or heat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed.
Freezer Friendly
Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Just portion it out in freezer-safe containers, and it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Perfect for meal prep or lazy nights when you want something homemade without the effort!
And there you have it! A heartwarming, soul-satisfying Easy Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking! Follow us on Pinterest for daily baking inspiration that brings warmth to your table!
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Soak the dried red beans overnight or for a quick soak, boil for 2 minutes and let sit covered for 1 hour. Rinse and drain.
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add in minced garlic and sausage, sauté until sausage is nicely browned, about 3 more minutes.
- Stir in the Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), bay leaves, and soaked red beans. Pour in enough broth to cover beans, about 4 cups.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, letting it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours until beans are tender. Optionally, mash some beans against the pot for a creamier texture.
- Serve the beans over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions and fresh parsley. Enjoy!