There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Louisiana Red Beans and Rice filling your kitchen. This Southern classic, brimming with smoky, savory flavors, is the ultimate definition of soul food. Each spoonful carries the essence of Louisiana's rich culinary traditions, making it a beloved dish across generations.
I first discovered this recipe during a road trip through Louisiana, and it quickly became a family favorite. The simplicity of its ingredients and the depth of its flavor make it an unbeatable weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into everything you need to create this hearty and delicious meal.
Why You'll Love This Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Get ready to fall head over heels for a dish that is as satisfying as it is easy to make. Louisiana Red Beans and Rice brings bold flavors, a hearty texture, and loads of nostalgia to the table.
This dish is a lifesaver for busy cooks. While it simmers away to perfection, you can tackle other tasks, making it a low-maintenance meal with high rewards. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup.
Budget-friendly and filling, this recipe uses pantry staples like dried red beans, rice, and a few vegetables, keeping costs low while serving up big portions.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re catering to vegetarians or incorporating smoky andouille sausage for a traditional touch, this recipe adapts beautifully to any preference.
If you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this dish is perfect. It stores well, reheats wonderfully, and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Louisiana Red Beans and Rice comes from its humble yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a role in delivering that signature Creole flavor.
Dried Red Beans are the star of the show. Soaking them overnight ensures they cook evenly and achieve that creamy texture. If you're short on time, canned beans work too, though they won't give the same depth of flavor.
Andouille Sausage adds a smoky, spicy kick. If you prefer a milder dish, you can substitute smoked turkey or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian option.
Holy Trinity Vegetables—a mix of diced onions, bell peppers, and celery—form the flavor base of this dish. This combination is a hallmark of Creole and Cajun cooking, bringing a fragrant and savory profile to every bite.
Creole Seasoning ties it all together. A blend of paprika, garlic powder, and other spices, it gives the dish its signature kick. Store-bought versions are great, but homemade seasoning can take the flavor to the next level.
White Rice is the perfect canvas for the beans' rich, savory sauce. Long-grain rice works best, as it stays fluffy and doesn’t clump together.
A sturdy Dutch oven or large stockpot is ideal for preparing this dish, ensuring even cooking and plenty of space for the beans to simmer.
How To Make Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Making Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is simpler than it seems, but the payoff is immense. Follow these steps to create a comforting and flavor-packed meal.
Start by soaking your dried red beans overnight in a large bowl filled with water. This step ensures tender beans that cook evenly. Drain and rinse them when you're ready to cook.
In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add your sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
To the same pot, add diced onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, letting it cook for another minute to release its aroma.
Return the sausage to the pot and add the soaked beans, Creole seasoning, bay leaves, and enough chicken or vegetable stock to cover everything. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
As the beans cook, prepare your rice according to package instructions. Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or hot sauce.
Serve the beans over a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
Storage Options
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a meal that gets better with time, making it perfect for leftovers.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to grab a quick, satisfying meal on busy days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to restore the creamy consistency. Microwave reheating also works, though stovetop is preferred for better texture.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.
For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots for more nutrition.
Want to dial up the spice? Add diced jalapeños or extra Creole seasoning for a fiery kick. Conversely, omit the spicy elements for a milder version that’s kid-friendly.
Substitute brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier or lower-carb option. The dish will remain hearty and satisfying.
If you’re short on time, canned beans are a convenient swap for dried beans. Just reduce the cooking time and use less liquid.
Experiment with different proteins. Smoked ham hocks or turkey necks bring a rich, smoky flavor, while shrimp can add a coastal twist to the dish.
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is the kind of recipe that invites creativity, so don’t be afraid to put your spin on it. Whether you stick to tradition or make it your own, this dish is sure to delight every time.
PrintLouisiana Red Beans And Rice Recipe
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a classic Southern comfort dish, packed with smoky sausage, creamy red beans, and flavorful Cajun spices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern, Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb red kidney beans, dried
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Soak the red beans overnight in water. Rinse and drain.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Add beans, Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaf, and water or broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add sausage back to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook an additional 30 minutes until beans are tender.
- Serve over cooked white rice and enjoy.
Notes
- Use smoked turkey or ham hock for added flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your heat preference.
- This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
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