Real Cajun Red Beans and Sausage

Dive into the rich and comforting flavors of Real Cajun Red Beans and Sausage, a slow-simmered classic that brings the soul of Louisiana to your table. This hearty dish combines creamy red kidney beans, smoky sausage, and the "holy trinity" of Cajun cooking—onion, bell pepper, and celery—infused with bold spices like smoked paprika, cayenne, and herbs. Simmered in savory chicken broth, it develops a depth of flavor perfect for serving over fluffy white rice. Garnish with fresh green onions and parsley for a vibrant finish. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or a taste of authentic Southern cuisine, this recipe captures the essence of hearty, homemade comfort food. Keywords: Cajun red beans and sausage, Louisiana recipe, authentic Southern cuisine, smoky red beans, Cajun comfort food.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:200 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried red kidney beans
• 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 leaves bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cups white rice (optional, for serving)
• 0.25 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
• 0.25 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried red kidney beans in cool water and pick out any debris or discolored beans.

Step 2

Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water, allowing them to soak overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.

Step 3

In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 5

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Step 7

Return the browned sausage to the pot and add the drained red beans.

Step 8

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.

Step 9

Add the dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.

Step 10

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 2.5-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 11

After 2.5 hours, check the beans for tenderness. If needed, cook longer until the beans are soft and creamy.

Step 12

Remove the bay leaves and mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with the back of a spoon to thicken the mixture.

Step 13

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if desired.

Step 14

Serve warm over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions and parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3031.7 grams (3031.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2989

Total Fat 33.60g	43%
Saturated Fat 5.70g	29%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5897mg	256%
Total Carbohydrate 528.50g	192%
Dietary Fiber 79.90g	285%
Total Sugars 22.90g
Protein 152.80g	306%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1000mg	77%
Iron 47mg	260%
Potassium 8659mg	184%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 10.0%

Protein: 20.2%

Carbs: 69.8%