The Best Homemade Red Beans and Rice Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade red beans and rice recipe is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a pot of this hearty dish.

• Rich, smoky taste from a blend of spices, sausage, and slow-cooked beans that melt in your mouth.
• Budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it a go-to meal any day.
• Perfect for leftovers, tasting even better the next day as the flavors soak in.

Recipe

Red beans and rice is a classic Creole dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe combines tender red beans with aromatic spices, smoked sausage, and rice for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Drain the soaked beans and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Return the sausage to the pot. Add beans, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
6. Remove bay leaves. Mash some beans against the pot to thicken the mixture. Season with salt and black pepper.
7. Meanwhile, cook rice according to package instructions.
8. Serve beans over rice and garnish with green onions.

Notes:

• For a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered longer.
• Adjust cayenne for desired spiciness.

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Rice cooker or pot for rice

Time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
• Cooking time: 2 hours

Cuisine:

– Creole

Serving:

– 6-8 servings

Nutrition

1 serving of homemade red beans and rice provides a balanced mix of macronutrients and essential minerals.

What To Serve With It

When I make red beans and rice, I love adding side dishes that complement its rich flavor, like cornbread or a fresh green salad. Pairing it with smoky grilled sausage or crispy fried chicken takes the meal to the next level, and it feels like a complete feast. Let’s explore some perfect pairings to round out this comforting dish!

Side Dish Ideas

A great meal isn’t complete without the perfect sides, and luckily, red beans and rice pair well with so many delicious options. I love serving it with buttery cornbread—its sweetness balances the savory beans perfectly. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, while fried okra brings a crunchy contrast. For something heartier, try smoked sausage or grilled chicken. Don’t forget pickled veggies for a zesty kick! And if you’re feeling indulgent, cheesy garlic bread never disappoints. These sides turn a simple dish into a feast, making every bite more satisfying. Experiment and find your favorites!

Perfect Pairings

Though red beans and rice are delicious on their own, they truly shine when paired with the right dishes. I love serving them with smoky andouille sausage or crispy fried chicken for a hearty meal. For a lighter touch, a zesty coleslaw or tangy pickled vegetables add a fresh contrast. Cornbread is a must—its sweetness balances the savory beans perfectly. Sometimes, I’ll toss a green salad with a simple vinaigrette to round it out. Don’t forget hot sauce for a kick! These pairings turn a simple dish into a feast, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser.