Easy Red Beans and Rice with Sausage – A Southern Staple for Busy Families
If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that’s hearty, budget-friendly, and full of Southern flavor, this Red Beans and Rice with Sausage recipe is one to keep in regular rotation.
In our house, we make this just about every single week.
It’s one of those go-to meals that’s quick to throw together, doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and always hits the spot.
Using the brown rice in microwaveable bags (cooked using the stove top directions on the bag) and canned kidney beans cuts down on cooking time, making this a fast and easy meal to get on the table without a lot of fuss.
You may also like:
- Ranch House Pinto Beans
- Skillet Beef and Rice
- One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Shrimp Fried Rice
- Slow Cooker Southwest Chicken and Rice Soup
Who This Red Beans and Rice Recipe Is For
This recipe is perfect for busy families, working parents, college students with limited cooking experience, or anyone looking for a warm and filling meal without spending a ton of time in the kitchen.
If you’re trying to save money on groceries but still want something that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, this recipe will come in handy.
The ingredients are simple and affordable, and chances are, you already have most of them on hand.
What Makes This Red Beans and Rice Stand Out
This isn’t one of those complicated red beans and rice recipes that take hours on the stove or need a long list of spices.
It’s a quick and easy version that still brings all the flavor. Using canned kidney beans and packaged brown rice helps save time without sacrificing taste.
The hickory smoked sausage adds depth and a rich, savory flavor that brings the whole dish together.
When to Make Red Beans and Rice
This meal works just about any night of the week.
It’s great on a cold evening when you need something comforting, but it’s also light enough to make during the summer.
We like to whip it up on Sundays to kick off the week, and the leftovers are even better the next day.
It’s perfect to pack for work lunches, and it holds up well for meal prep if you’re cooking ahead.
Where This Meal Belongs—Anywhere You Need It
Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a casual family dinner or just making something quick after a long day, this Red Beans and Rice with Sausage fits the situation.
It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but satisfying enough to serve at a potluck or Sunday supper.
Bring it to a church gathering, a family reunion, or serve it straight from the stove on a quiet night at home.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
This is one of those meals that’s reliable.
It’s not fancy, but it’s filling and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish you can make on autopilot once you’ve done it a couple of times.
It’s also incredibly flexible.
You can switch up the type of sausage, add in chopped bell peppers or onions, or even use white rice if that’s what you’ve got.
But the beauty of this version is how easy it is to pull together with minimal prep and ingredients.
How to Serve Red Beans and Rice
You can serve this in a bowl with cornbread on the side, roll it up in a tortilla for a quick wrap, or even top it with a fried egg for a next-day breakfast.
If you’ve got leftovers, spoon them into meal prep containers and stash them in the fridge for the week ahead.
It reheats well and holds its flavor.
We’ve even added a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of shredded cheese when serving for a little extra kick.
This Red Beans and Rice with Sausage recipe has earned its spot in our weekly meal plan for good reason.
It’s easy, it feeds a crowd, and it tastes just as good the next day.
If you’re after a reliable Southern dinner idea that won’t break the bank or take up your whole evening, give this one a try.
Red Beans and Rice with Sausage
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. hickory smoked sausage
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tbsp. butter
- 2 (8.8 oz) packages of whole grain brown rice *
- 6 tbsp. water
- 2 (15.5 oz) cans kidney beans (drained)
- desired amount of salt and pepper
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
*If making with white rice:
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water
Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Add butter and salt to taste if desired.
Stir in rice, cover.
Reduce heat, simmer 20 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Add to the mixture once it’s cooked and stir well.
Directions:
Cut up the sausage into small pieces.
Cook the sausage on low heat. Add the olive oil and butter to the pan.
Add the two packages of brown rice and water. Stir well.
Add the kidney beans.
Add the seasonings.
Stir and mix well.
Cook on low until rice is tender.
Serve and enjoy!
Red Beans and Rice with Sausage
Ingredients
- 1 lb. hickory smoked sausage
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 2 (8.8 oz) packages of whole grain brown rice
- 6 tbsp. water (for the rice)
- 2 (15.5 oz) cans kidney beans (drained)
- desired amount of salt and pepper
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
Instructions
Cut up the sausage into small pieces.
Cook the sausage on low heat. Add the olive oil and butter to the pan.
Add the two packages of brown rice and water. Stir well.
Add the kidney beans.
Add the seasonings.
Stir and mix well.
Cook on low until rice is tender.
Frequently Asked Questions about Red Beans and Rice with Sausage
What kind of sausage is best for red beans and rice?
We use hickory smoked sausage for that rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the beans and rice. Andouille sausage is another great option if you want a little more spice. You can even use beef sausage – your choice!
Can I make red beans and rice with canned beans?
Yes! Using canned kidney beans is a huge time-saver and still gives you great flavor without the hours of soaking and simmering that dried beans require.
Is this red beans and rice recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats nicely. It’s one of our favorite meals to portion out into containers for work lunches or quick heat-and-eat dinners.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can easily substitute white rice if that’s what you have on hand. The brown rice in microwaveable bags just makes it quicker and adds a bit of extra fiber.
How can I make red beans and rice more flavorful?
The smoked sausage already adds a lot of flavor, but you can also sauté some onions or bell peppers before adding the other ingredients. A dash of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning can also boost the flavor if you like more heat.
Can I freeze leftover red beans and rice?
Yes, this recipe freezes well. Just let it cool, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Is this red beans and rice recipe spicy?
This version isn’t spicy as written, making it kid-friendly. If you like a kick, just add cayenne pepper or a few splashes of hot sauce to taste.
What do I serve with red beans and rice and sausage?
Cornbread, collard greens, or a simple side salad all pair well. It’s also filling enough to serve all on its own.
