The Best Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice Recipe – A Hearty Taste of the South”

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Servings: 6–8

This Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe is a timeless Creole classic simmered slow and seasoned to perfection. Made with creamy red beans, smoked sausage, and aromatic Cajun spices, this hearty dish captures the true soul of New Orleans comfort food. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners, Mardi Gras celebrations, or any day you crave a taste of Louisiana.

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb dry red kidney beans, rinsed and soaked overnight
• 1 lb smoked andouille sausage or Louisiana downhome sausage, sliced
• 1 ham hock or ½ lb diced smoked ham (optional, for richness)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon grease
• 6 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 tsp Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp thyme
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 4 cups cooked long-grain white rice

👩🏽‍🍳 Directions

1. Prepare the Beans:
   Rinse and soak beans overnight in cold water. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Base:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil or bacon grease over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic — the Cajun “holy trinity.” Cook 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Sausage and Seasoning:
   Stir in andouille or Louisiana downhome sausage, ham hock, Creole seasoning, paprika, thyme, black pepper, bay leaves, and cayenne. Cook 3 minutes to release flavor.
4. Simmer the Beans:
   Add the soaked beans and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 2 to 2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and creamy. Add more broth or water as needed.
5. Mash for Creaminess:
   Remove about ½ cup of beans, mash with a fork, and return them to the pot to naturally thicken the mixture. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
6. Serve:
   Spoon the red beans over hot cooked rice, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with cornbread or hot sauce for a true Louisiana experience.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with buttery cornbread, collard greens, or fried catfish for a complete Southern meal. It also pairs perfectly with a cold glass of sweet tea or a side of pickled vegetables.