There is something about Cajun food, it’s comforting, addicting, and just a little bit spicy. That’s exactly how I’d describe this seriously easy red beans and rice with sausage dish. The kids love it, the husband loves it, and I made sure the ingredients are quality. You can’t go wrong. And if you want something seriously easy on a weeknight, that’s this dish. In fact, it’s so easy my kids practically made it! Don’t believe me? Watch the video below. 🙂
The heartiness from the sausage and beans compliment the light and fluffy white rice. The sausage adds extra flavor and protein, while the cajun seasoning kicks up the heat, just ever so slightly. Top this dish with green onions to give it that fresh taste and crunch.
Health Benefits:
While Cajun food might not be the first cuisine that comes to your mind when thinking “healthy food,” many of the ingredients used in their dishes bring some great benefits to the body.
Cajun spices: There are a variety of spices used in Cajun seasonings. Two prominent ones to mention are paprika and cayenne. Both spices come from peppers and contain healthy amounts of capsaicin, carotenoids and antioxidants. These compounds help with healthy aging, some cancers, heart health and sun damage. Just read the ingredients, as some seasoning blends add fillers.
The kidney beans in this dish are a legume that is rich in protein and fiber. They help stabalize blood sugar, promote heart and digestive health. They also are a great source of folate, manganese, iron and copper. This helps with cell turnover and helps aid in weight loss.
To Make:
First, steam your rice.
As the rice is steaming, saute your sausage in a large skillet.
Next, saute chopped veggies (can do in same or separate skillet with some olive oil).
Combine sausage and veggies if not already combined and add remaining ingredients (minus cooked rice and green onions).
With a masher, mash the beans for a few minutes to help thicken the sauce and create a creamier consistency.
Bring dish to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
Serve red beans and sausage over rice and topped with green onions.
If you liked this recipe, then you will love this gumbo!
Easy Red Beans & Rice with Sausage
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 cup dry white rice, previously steamed
2 cans kidney beans
1 cup chicken broth
1 lb cooked sausage (I like Nature’s Rancher from Whole Foods)
1/2 onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried parsley
large pinch of dried sage
2 tsp cajun seasoning
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
topping: sliced green onions
Instructions
First, steam your rice.
As the rice is steaming, saute your sausage in a large skillet
Next, saute chopped veggies (can do in same or separate skillet with some olive oil)
Combine sausage and veggies if not already combined and add remaining ingredients (minus cooked rice and green onions)
With a masher, mash the beans for a few minutes to help thicken the sauce and create a creamier consistency
Bring dish to a boil, then reduce to a simmer
Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
Serve red beans and sausage over rice and topped with green onions
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
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