Name: Cajun Red Beans Rice: 5 Bold Flavors You Can't Resist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon liquid smoke; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 4 cups vegetable broth; 3 cups cooked red kidney beans; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar; White or brown rice, cooked; Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Cajun Red Beans Rice is a bold, comforting dish that brings the flavors of New Orleans right to your dinner table. This one-pot meal is filling, easy to prepare, and perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep. With its mix of smoky spices, tender red beans, and aromatic vegetables, this dish will satisfy your cravings for Southern-style comfort food. Made with budget-friendly ingredients, it’s also a great option for those looking for healthy, flavorful meals.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Red Beans Rice

This Cajun Red Beans Rice recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here’s why you’ll love it:

It’s a one-pot dish, which means minimal cleanup.
Perfect for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it all week!
Rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
Easy to customize with your favorite spices and ingredients.
It embodies authentic Cajun cuisine, delivering robust flavors.

Great for vegetarians and vegans, as it features plant-based ingredients.
You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
This dish can be served as a hearty main or a side dish.

Ingredients for Cajun Red Beans Rice

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
4 cups vegetable broth
3 cups cooked red kidney beans
1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
White or brown rice, cooked
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

How to Make Cajun Red Beans Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 7-10 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Mix in tomato paste and stir to coat vegetables. Add vegetable broth, bay leaves, liquid smoke, and cumin. Stir well.
Step 4: Add kidney beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Remove bay leaves. Stir in apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve over cooked rice and garnish with parsley or green onions.

Cajun Red Beans Rice: 5 Bold Flavors You Can't Resist - Cajun Red Beans Rice - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Red Beans Rice

Keep these in mind:

This dish is naturally vegan, making it a great option for anyone on a plant-based diet.
Adjust spices to your taste—add more cayenne for a spicy Cajun red beans kick!

Great for leftovers; the flavors deepen as it sits.
For a quicker version, use canned beans instead of dried ones.

Best Ways to Serve Cajun Red Beans Rice

Here are a few ideas to enjoy your Cajun Red Beans Rice:

Serve it with cornbread for a traditional Southern-style meal.
Top with sliced green onions or fresh parsley for added flavor.

Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Cajun Red Beans Rice

To store leftovers, place the Cajun Red Beans Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Red Beans Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Cajun Red Beans Rice?

The secret lies in the balance of spices. Using a mix of smoked paprika, cayenne, and herbs like thyme and oregano adds depth. Incorporating liquid smoke gives that authentic Cajun flavor. Adjust the spices according to your preference for heat.

Can I make Cajun Red Beans Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cajun Red Beans Rice tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cajun Red Beans Rice?

One common mistake is not allowing enough time for the beans to cook or simmer. Be sure to cook it long enough to let the flavors develop. Also, taste as you go and adjust the seasoning based on your preference.

Variations of Cajun Red Beans Rice You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

For a heartier dish, add sausage or ham for a traditional touch.

Make it a vegetarian Cajun red beans and rice by adding more vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
Try a spicy Cajun red beans version using jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.

Cajun Red Beans Rice: 5 Bold Flavors You Can't Resist - Cajun Red Beans Rice - additional detail

For more information about cooking techniques, check out our about page. If you’re interested in our policies, visit the terms of use page. For privacy concerns, please refer to our privacy policy. You can also check our GDPR compliance for more details.