Description
Make a quick and flavorful Louisiana Red Beans and Rice in just 30 minutes! This easy one-pot Southern classic is packed with smoky, savory goodness—perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14-ounce) can red beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic and Spices – Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Sausage – Add the sliced sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly browned.
- Simmer the Beans – Pour in the red beans, kidney beans, and broth. Stir well and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Mash some beans slightly for a creamier texture.
- Serve Over Rice – Spoon the red bean mixture over cooked white rice. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired and garnish with green onions.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option – Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Extra Smoky Flavor – Add liquid smoke or smoked turkey.
- Spicier Version – Increase cayenne or add diced jalapeños.
- Creamier Texture – Blend a portion of the beans before adding.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: one pot
- Cuisine: Southern, cajun
Keywords: Louisiana red beans and rice, quick Cajun recipe, one-pot Southern meal, easy red beans and rice, weeknight comfort food