Red Beans and Rice

How to Make Red Beans and Rice

If you’re in the mood for a dish with bold flavor in every bite, you’ve come to the right place! The key to making this simplified version of a classic is to start with a base of green bell pepper and onion sautéed to perfection in butter. Combined with beef broth, red kidney beans and seasonings, this flavor combo infuses every bite of white rice with goodness.

The best beans to use: When it comes to choosing beans, we suggest using canned red kidney beans for best results! However, you can also use other cooked beans, such as pinto beans, black beans or white beans.

The best rice to use: For the best results, we suggest using a long grain white rice, like our Minute® Instant White Rice for this dish. This rice cooks up in just a few minutes making for a simple, quick meal with delicious flavor. You can also use a more aromatic variety, such as jasmine rice, if you prefer. If you would like to use whole grain brown rice, just make sure to adjust the liquid amounts and cooking time according to the package.

Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice

This recipe can also be made in an Instant Pot, if desired. Just make sure to start with the sauté function in Step 1 and switch to cooking mode for only a few minutes when the broth and other ingredients are added in Step 2.

An Instant Pot can also come in handy if you choose to make your own beans using the dried variety.

Vegetarian Red Beans and Rice

Although we suggest using beef broth for the best flavor in this recipe, feel free to use vegetable broth to make this dish completely vegetarian! Traditionally, this dish is made using meat or bones. However, it works wonderfully as a meat-free meal as it includes a complete protein of beans and rice. You can also take this dish one step further by using cooking oil in place of butter for a vegan version. Another great vegetarian dish is our Rice-Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan.

Cajun Red Beans and Rice

Enjoy a bit of true southern comfort with this hearty red beans and rice dish made with typical flavors like Cajun seasoning, green pepper, onion, beans and hot sauce. You don’t have to be a chef to make great tasting meals! With Minute® Rice, anyone can make something tasty in no time!

For another simple, Louisiana-inspired dinner recipe try this Cajun Shrimp Boil Rice.

New Orleans Red Beans and Rice

Did you know that red beans and rice originated in Louisiana? Alongside fluffy beignets, Shrimp Jambalaya and Louisiana Gumbo, this dish is a southern classic! Our easy version makes a great addition to any Mardi Gras party. And, it comes together easily with no hassle!

Southern Red Beans and Rice

While red beans and rice was originally cooked in Louisiana, nowadays it has become a staple throughout different states. Serve this dish as a side with home-cooked barbecued pulled pork, iced tea and a bit of cornbread for a Souther-style meal.

Red Beans and Rice with Sausage

To turn this dish into a quick meal with added meat, add 2 cups of diced ham or cooked sausage at the same time as the broth. Or, at the end of cooking, top the dish with cooked bacon strips or smoked Andouille sausage.

Love this dish? You’ll also want to try our recipe for Easy Red Beans and Rice, made with turkey sausage, kidney beans, white rice, tomatoes, chili powder and cheese.

Puerto Rican Red Beans and Rice

The classic combo of beans and rice is common throughout many cuisines, especially in Latin American countries like Puerto Rico where it is referred to as Habichuelas Guisadas, or stewed beans. The southern version commonly starts with a base of onion, celery and pepper where this version uses a base called a sofrito with green peppers, onions, ají, garlic, cilantro, and more! It sometimes even calls for olives and potatoes to add a special local touch.