Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how it brings a taste of the South to your table with minimal effort.

• Rich and hearty flavors that come together with smoky sausage, tender beans, and a blend of spices.
• Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it a budget-friendly meal.
• Perfect for leftovers, as the flavors deepen overnight, giving you an even tastier dish the next day.

Recipe

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a classic Creole dish that combines hearty red beans, savory spices, and tender rice for a comforting and flavorful meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, offering a taste of Southern tradition.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 ham hock or 1 cup diced ham
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Drain the soaked beans and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Add the smoked sausage and ham hock (or diced ham), cooking until slightly browned.
4. Stir in the drained beans, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce thickens.
6. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
7. Serve the red beans over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and ham, and use vegetable broth.
• Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness.

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight soaking)

Cooking Time: 3 hours

Serving: 6-8

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

Cuisine: Creole

Nutrition

This classic Louisiana dish is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing Louisiana red beans and rice with simple side dishes like cornbread or a fresh green salad to balance the hearty flavors. For drinks, I often go with sweet iced tea or a cold beer to complement the dish’s richness. It’s all about finding what makes the meal feel complete for you!

Side Dishes

A few classic side dishes pair perfectly with red beans and rice, making the meal feel complete and even more satisfying. I love adding Southern sides like collard greens or cornbread to balance the rich, smoky flavor profiles of the main dish. Collard greens, simmered with a bit of bacon, bring a savory depth, while a slice of warm, buttery cornbread adds a touch of sweetness. Sometimes, I’ll toss together a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a fresh, crunchy contrast. These sides not only complement the meal but also make it feel like a true Southern feast.

Beverage Pairings

When you’re digging into a hearty bowl of red beans and rice, you’ll want a drink that complements its bold, smoky flavors without overpowering them. For perfect pairings, I always reach for a crisp lager or a cold sweet tea—they balance the richness beautifully. If you’re feeling fancy, a tangy lemonade or a zesty mint julep works wonders, especially on a hot day. For a non-alcoholic twist, try a chilled horchata or sparkling water with a squeeze of lime. These drink options keep the meal invigorating and satisfying, making every bite even better. Cheers to a delicious match!