New Orleans red beans and rice is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Creamy beans, smoky sausage, and fluffy rice come together into a meal that’s hearty, affordable, and deeply comforting. It’s a classic for a reason and once you make it at home, you’ll understand why my family requests it week after week.

This recipe is designed for real home cooks. In a traditional slow-simmered pot, an easy canned-bean shortcut, or a set-it-and-forget-it crockpot version, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to make the best red beans and rice recipe with confidence.

What Makes Red Beans and Rice “New Orleans Style”

Authentic New Orleans red beans and rice isn’t just beans and rice tossed together. What sets it apart is the layered flavor and creamy texture developed through slow cooking.

Small red beans, which naturally break down and thicken the pot
The “holy trinity” of onion, celery, and bell pepper
Smoked sausage or andouille for depth and richness
Long, gentle simmering that turns humble ingredients into something special

Unlike many rice and beans recipes, this dish is meant to be luxuriously thick, almost stew-like, spooned generously over rice rather than mixed in.

Recipe Summary

Preparation Time: 15–20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 2–2½ hours (using dried, soaked beans)
- 30–40 minutes (using canned beans)
Servings: 6–8 servings

Ingredients You’ll Need

This homemade red beans and rice recipe uses pantry staples and flexible proteins, making it easy to adapt.

Beans

1 pound (450 g) dried small red beans, soaked overnight, or
3–4 (15 oz / 425 g) cans red beans, drained and rinsed (quick version)

Meat Options

12–14 oz (340–400 g) andouille sausage, sliced, or smoked sausage
1 small ham hock, or
3–4 slices bacon, chopped (adds depth and smokiness)

Vegetables & Seasonings

1 large onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1½–2 teaspoons Cajun or Creole seasoning (to taste)
¾–1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Liquid

6–8 cups (1.4–1.9 L) water or low-sodium chicken broth
(amount depends on soaking and desired thickness)

Rice

2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked, or
2 cups brown rice, uncooked (for a healthier option)

Optional Garnishes

Sliced green onions
Hot sauce
Fresh parsley

This flexible red beans and rice recipe works with dried or canned beans, making it easy to adjust based on time and preference without sacrificing flavor.

Instructions

This method creates creamy beans without constant attention.

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

If using dried beans, soak them overnight or use a quick-soak method. This helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time. If you’re short on time, canned beans can absolutely work just see the shortcut section below.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Brown the sausage in a heavy pot until it develops deep color. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper until soft and fragrant. Add garlic and seasonings to bloom the flavors.

Step 3: Simmer Until Creamy

Add the beans, sausage, bay leaves, and enough liquid to cover everything. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and naturally creamy. As they cook, some beans will break down and thicken the pot that’s exactly what you want.

Approximate Cooking Time: Plan for about 3 hours total when using dried beans, including prep and simmering. If you’re using canned beans, this recipe comes together in under an hour, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The crockpot version requires minimal hands-on time and cooks slowly over 4–8 hours, depending on the setting.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

While the beans simmer, cook your rice separately. Fluffy, well-seasoned rice is essential it balances the rich beans perfectly.

Spoon the beans over the rice just before serving.

Crockpot Red Beans and Rice Option

This recipe adapts beautifully to the slow cooker, making it ideal for busy days.

Prep time 15 minutes
Add soaked beans, vegetables, sausage, and seasonings to the crockpot
Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours
Stir during the last hour to encourage creaminess

This rice and beans crockpot recipe is especially popular for meal prep and hands-off cooking.

Using Canned Beans (Fast Weeknight Version)

If you need dinner on the table fast, canned beans are a great shortcut.

Use 3–4 cans of red beans, drained and rinsed
Reduce liquid significantly
Simmer just long enough for flavors to meld

While dried beans offer the best texture, this red beans and rice recipe with canned beans is still rich, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights.

New Orleans red beans and rice served in a bowl with creamy red beans, sliced smoked sausage, and fluffy white rice, garnished with green onions.

Healthy Red Beans and Rice Variations

To lighten things up without sacrificing flavor:

Use less sausage and more vegetables
Choose brown rice or serve beans over cauliflower rice
Opt for reduced-sodium broth and seasoning

These small changes create a healthy red beans and rice recipe that still feels comforting and filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve red beans and rice hot, with:

Sliced green onions
Hot sauce on the side
Cornbread or a simple green salad

It’s a complete, satisfying meal all on its own no extra sides required.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Freeze beans (without rice) for up to 3 months
Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth

Like many meat and beans recipes, this one tastes even better the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use kidney beans instead of small red beans?
You can, but the texture will be different. Small red beans create the signature creamy consistency.

Is red beans and rice spicy?
It’s flavorful, not fiery. Heat comes from seasoning and hot sauce added at the table.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s one of the best make-ahead comfort meals.

Wrapping Up: New Orleans Red Beans and Rice

This recipe works whether you want:

A traditional small red beans recipe
An easy red beans and rice shortcut
A crockpot-friendly dinner
Or a simple, satisfying comfort meal

It’s flexible, forgiving, and deeply flavorful exactly what a classic should be.

If you’re building a rotation of reliable, crowd-pleasing meals, this New Orleans red beans and rice recipe deserves a permanent spot.

If you like this red bean and rice recipe you should check out two more of my families foravorites. Both are one-pot recipes spanish rice and mexican rice!