Red Beans 'N Rice
A hearty New Orleans-style red beans and rice dish featuring flavorful sausage, bacon, and vegetables, perfect for comfort food lovers and those craving a spicy, savory meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crispy; remove from pan and set aside on paper towels.
- In the bacon grease, sauté onions, green pepper, and celery until tender.
- Sprinkle cayenne pepper and cumin into the vegetable mixture.
- In a separate pan, fry the sausage until browned.
- Drain and discard excess grease from the sausage.
- Add mashed stewed tomatoes and browned vegetables, including bacon grease, to the sausage; stir to combine.
- Simmer the mixture until heated through.
- Stir in the bacon and undrained kidney beans.
- Bring to a simmer again.
- Season with salt, pepper, and picante sauce to taste.
- Serve the red beans and sausage over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using andouille sausage instead of regular beef sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with smoked tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of bacon grease. You can also adjust the heat by adding more cayenne or including diced jalapeños. This dish can be made even heartier by adding chopped bell peppers or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the red beans and sausage over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a healthier option. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for added color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad, and it can also be enjoyed with a side of collard greens for a classic Southern meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. This dish also freezes well; simply let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Beans 'N Rice contains roughly 1112 calories, with 53g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (117% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 932mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried kidney beans. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the recipe. This will enhance the flavor and texture, but it will take more time compared to using canned beans. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and make sure to drain them before adding to the dish.
What can I use if I don't have picante sauce?
If you don't have picante sauce, you can substitute it with salsa or a mix of diced tomatoes with a splash of hot sauce. This will provide a similar flavor profile and heat level. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, ensuring you balance the acidity and spice.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the beef sausage with a plant-based sausage or smoked tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of bacon grease for sautéing the vegetables. The flavor will still be robust, and you'll enjoy a hearty meal without meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).