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Easy Cajun Red Beans and Rice

Easy Cajun Red Beans and Rice

Smoky, cozy red beans simmered with andouille and Cajun spices, piled over fluffy white rice for a weeknight-friendly classic.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp neutral oil or olive oil
  • 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
  • 1.25 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 1 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 3 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.75 tsp dried thyme
  • 1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning low-sodium if available
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional, to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp crumbled bay leaf
  • 30 oz red kidney beans, canned, drained and rinsed
  • 1.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar for brightness
  • 4.5 cup cooked long-grain white rice for serving
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • 0.25 cup sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Cook the rice according to package directions, then keep warm.
  • Warm the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the sliced sausage until lightly crisp, 4–5 minutes.
  • Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until soft and glossy, about 6 minutes.
  • Stir in the garlic and tomato paste. Cook until fragrant and darkened, 1–2 minutes.
  • Season with paprika, thyme, Cajun seasoning, cayenne, black pepper, salt, and crumbled bay leaf. Mix well.
  • Pour in the broth and add the beans. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook gently for 20 minutes.
  • Mash a scoop of beans against the pot to thicken, then stir in the vinegar. Adjust salt to taste.
  • Spoon the beans over warm rice. Garnish with parsley and green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

For extra heat, swap half the andouille with hot smoked sausage. For a meatless version, skip the sausage and add 1 tsp liquid smoke plus an extra 1 tbsp olive oil. Leftovers keep well up to 4 days refrigerated; the beans also freeze for 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Cajun Red Beans and Rice flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.