Howdy and welcome to a hearty, soul-satisfying recipe that brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen: Red Beans and Rice with Andouille. This classic dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. Featuring tender red beans, smoky andouille sausage, and a blend of spices, it's a meal that combines comfort and flavor in every bite.
Prepping the Red Beans
For the best texture and flavor, start by soaking your red beans for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This step ensures that the beans cook evenly and become tender, making them the perfect base for this flavorful dish. Simply cover the beans with water and let them sit—it's a hands-off process that makes the actual cooking much easier.
Building the Flavor
Once your beans are prepped, it’s time to build the rich flavors that define this dish. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a bit of oil until they’re soft and fragrant. Add in your andouille sausage, which infuses the dish with its smoky, savory goodness. Then stir in your soaked beans, along with broth and a mix of seasonings. Allow the mixture to simmer slowly, letting the flavors meld together and the beans become deliciously creamy. The result is a deeply satisfying stew that’s packed with flavor.
Customizable Spice Level
One of the great things about Red Beans and Rice with Andouille is that you can tailor the spice level to your taste. Whether you like it mild or prefer a kick, you can adjust the amount of seasoning and hot sauce to suit your preferences. Start with a base of spices and add more as needed to create a dish that's just right for you. If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile.
Recipe
📖 Recipe
RED BEANS AND RICE WITH ANDOUILLE
Ingredients
- 12 oz andouille sausage sliced
- 1 lb dry red kidney beans
- 2 T butter
- 1 small red bell pepper
- 1 small green bell pepper
- ½ yellow onion
- 7 cloves of garlic
- 2 bay leaves
- 1.5 t oregano
- 1.5 t thyme
- 1.5 t paprika
- 1.5 t cayenne pepper
- 1 T parsley flake
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 T Tony Chachere’s spicy seasoning optional
- White rice for serving
Instructions
- Soak kidney beans for 8 hours or overnight in a large bowl.
- Water should come up 2 inches above beans.
- In a large Dutch oven, brown sliced andouille until very crispy, about 12-15 minutes.
- Reserve to a bowl.
- Melt butter and add diced peppers, onion and garlic.
- Sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, beans, sausage and bay leaves to your Dutch oven.
- Crank her to high!
- Once boiling, reduce to low and simmer covered for 2 hours until beans are tender.
- Remove 2 cups of beans and mash, then add back to pot to help thicken.
- Taste for your preferred spice level and add Tony’s seasoning if you need a little more kick.
- Add parsley and serve in large bowls over white rice!
Notes
Nutrition
Serving Options
This dish is traditionally served over a bed of fluffy white rice, which soaks up the rich, savory flavors of the beans and sausage. However, you can get creative with your serving options. Try it over quinoa for a different texture, or pair it with cornbread for an extra touch of Southern comfort. The possibilities are endless! For an extra burst of freshness, consider topping your serving with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Perfect for Leftovers
Red Beans and Rice with Andouille also makes fantastic leftovers. As the dish sits, the flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze portions for a quick and easy meal later. Simply reheat and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Southern classic all over again.
Red Beans and Rice with Andouille is a timeless recipe that combines rich, smoky flavors with tender beans and perfectly seasoned rice. With a bit of prep, it’s a dish that fits both casual weeknights and special occasions. Serve it up with your favorite side, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Give this recipe a try, and tag me on Instagram @thefischerupper.
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