The Best Homemade Red Beans and Rice Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This red beans and rice recipe is a comforting classic that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how it brings together familiar ingredients to create a dish that feels like home.

• It’s budget-friendly, using pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
• The flavors get better as it sits, making it perfect for leftovers.
• You can customize it to your taste, adding more spice or veggies as you like.

Recipe

Intro:

Red Beans and Rice is a classic Creole dish, rich in flavor and deeply rooted in Louisiana cuisine. This hearty meal combines tender red beans, savory spices, and fluffy rice for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

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 or andouille, sliced
• 1 ham hock (optional)
• 6 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cups cooked white rice
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Drain soaked beans and rinse well.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Add sausage and ham hock (if using), cooking until lightly browned.
4. Stir in beans, water or broth, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
6. Remove ham hock, shred any meat, and return to the pot.
7. Mash some beans against the pot to thicken the mixture.
8. Adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with green onions.

Notes:

• For a vegetarian version, omit meat and use vegetable broth.
• Soaking beans overnight reduces cooking time.

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus soaking time)
• Cooking time: 2–3 hours

Cuisine:

Creole

Serving:

6–8 servings

Nutrition

Red beans and rice is a nutritious dish packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

When I cook red beans and rice, I love pairing it with sides that balance its hearty flavor, like a crisp green salad or steamed collard greens. Adding cornbread or a crusty French baguette complements the dish perfectly and soaks up every bit of sauce. Don’t forget a dash of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños if you’re after a little extra kick!

Side Dish Pairings

Pairing red beans and rice with the right side dishes can take your meal from good to great. I love serving it with warm, buttery cornbread—it’s soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for soaking up the beans’ flavors. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a fresh crunch that balances the hearty main dish. Sometimes, I’ll slice up some pickled okra or spicy jalapeños for a zesty kick. And don’t forget collard greens simmered with smoked turkey—they’re smoky, savory, and just right. These sides round out the meal, making it feel complete and satisfying.

Complementary Flavors

Beyond side dishes, the flavors you choose to complement red beans and rice can make all the difference. I love adding a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick—it’s a game-changer! A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime brightens the dish, balancing the richness. Don’t forget pickled veggies, like onions or jalapeños—they add tang and crunch that’s irresistible. I’m also a fan of topping it with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh finish. Pairing it with a cold beer or sweet tea enhances the meal perfectly. Trust me, these little touches elevate the experience and make it unforgettable!