Cajun Red Beans and Rice

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Hearty, bold, and unapologetically flavorful, Cajun Red Beans and Rice is the kind of dish that brings comfort with every spoonful. It was born from humble roots in Louisiana, where slow-cooked beans and smoky sausage simmered together became a Monday tradition. These days, it’s an anytime favorite for its richness and ability to feed a crowd with ease.

This version sticks close to classic flavor but makes the process more approachable for a home kitchen. A simmering pot of creamy red beans flavored with aromatic herbs, peppers, and andouille sausage makes for a cozy and deeply satisfying meal. Pair that with fluffy rice, and it’s hard to go wrong.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Red Beans and Rice

This dish is a flavor-packed meal that practically cooks itself. It’s hearty enough for dinner but easy enough to prep ahead. The layers of spice, smoke, and savory depth make it feel like a true Southern hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and budget-friendly.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

Traditional Cajun Red Beans and Rice calls for andouille sausage, a smoked sausage that brings a signature spicy kick. If andouille isn’t available near you, try substituting with kielbasa or chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage if you’re going meat-free. Just look for something smoky and well-seasoned to carry that Cajun flair.

Ingredients for the Cajun Red Beans and Rice

Cajun food is all about building flavor. Each ingredient here plays a role in making this dish truly rich and satisfying.

• Red kidney beans
• Andouille sausage
• Yellow onion
• Celery
• Green bell pepper
• Garlic cloves
• Bay leaves
• Dried thyme
• Smoked paprika
• Cajun seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Chicken broth or water
• Cooked white rice

How To Make the Cajun Red Beans and Rice

Step 1: Soak and Prep the Beans

Soak your red kidney beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse them before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Veggies

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside. In the same pot, sauté onion, celery, and green bell pepper until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Step 3: Simmer the Beans

Add the soaked beans, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth (or water) until the beans are covered by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Mash for Creaminess

Remove about a cup of beans and mash them with a fork, then stir them back into the pot to thicken the mixture. Add the browned sausage back in and let it simmer uncovered for another 20-30 minutes until thick and creamy.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Spoon the beans over fluffy white rice and garnish with green onions or hot sauce if you like a kick.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Red Beans and Rice

This dish is best served hot, ladled over a scoop of fresh cooked white rice. It makes about 6 hearty servings, perfect for a family dinner or to meal prep for the week.

Leftovers keep incredibly well. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may want to splash in a bit of broth to loosen the consistency.

What to Serve With Cajun Red Beans and Rice?

Cornbread

The slight sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread balances beautifully with the spicy beans.

Collard Greens

Braised greens bring a smoky, tender bite that pairs with the richness of the beans.

Fried Plantains

A little sweet, a little crispy, these add a surprising twist alongside Cajun flavors.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A fresh, cool salad adds crunch and contrast to the warm, hearty dish.

Pickled Okra

Tangy and briny, this is a Southern staple that cuts through the richness.

Hot Sauce

A bottle on the table is a must for those who like extra heat.

Garlic Bread

While not traditional, it makes for a tasty way to scoop up any leftover beans.

Sweet Tea or Lemonade

To cool things off and make it a true Southern feast.

Want More Rice-Based Comfort Food Ideas?

If Cajun Red Beans and Rice is your kind of comfort, you might fall for these other rice-forward meals from Luna Meals:

• Dirty Rice with Ground Beef for a spicy, meaty one-skillet wonder.
• Smothered Chicken and Rice if you crave creamy, savory comfort food.
• Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Rice for a sweet-and-savory tropical twist.
• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for bold, zesty flavor lovers.
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice when you want takeout-style comfort at home.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use smoked turkey instead? Add some spice? Maybe double the garlic?

I love hearing how you put your own spin on it. Questions are welcome too!

Explore beautifully curated soul-warming meals and rice dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover new everyday favorites.

Conclusion

Cajun Red Beans and Rice is more than just a meal – it’s a taste of heritage, comfort, and spice all in one bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or stocking your freezer with make-ahead meals, this classic Louisiana dish delivers every single time.

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