Crockpot Red Beans & Rice

Crockpot Red Beans & Rice is the perfect cozy dinner. This easy, flavorful, slow-cooked recipe brings a taste of New Orleans to your table.

Imagine the rich, smoky aroma of Andouille sausage mingling with creamy red beans, all simmered to perfection in a crockpot. Crockpot Red Beans & Rice is a comforting and hearty dish that’s easy to make and bursting with Southern flavor.

Perfect for any day of the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy meals like this one that make life doable.

Let’s face it, in our busy lives, we don’t have a lot of time to spend on making meals. I’m a firm believer that homemade is best, though! So let’s dive into this easy slow cooker recipe and bring a little bit of New Orleans to your kitchen!

Crockpot Red Beans & Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of the Deep South that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its creamy beans, flavorful Andouille sausage, and perfect blend of spices, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or just looking for a hearty dinner, this easy slow-cooker recipe has you covered. So gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Happy cooking!

Common Questions About Crockpot Red Beans & Rice

Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?

Yes, you can! While the original recipe calls for dry red beans, you can use canned beans to save time.

If you choose to use canned beans, make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the slow cooker.

Also, reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours on high heat, since canned beans are already cooked.

What is the best type of sausage to use?

The best sausage for this dish is Andouille sausage, which is a smoked sausage with a distinct flavor.

If you can’t find Andouille sausage, you can use another type of smoked sausage or even smoked turkey for a different flavor. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the crockpot.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness of Crockpot Red Beans & Rice depends on the creole seasoning and any additional spices you use. If you like it spicy, you can add a little bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of creole seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper.

Storage

The only thing better than freshly made red beans and rice is leftover red beans and rice! This dish gets better with a little time.

Refrigerator

Store any leftover Crockpot Red Beans & Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Freezer

You can freeze the cooked red beans and sausage mixture for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer bag or tight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Tips

Fun fact: red beans and rice is traditionally served on Mondays in New Orleans because it uses the ham bone from Sunday night dinner. Consider yourself educated!

• Soak the beans: Soaking dry beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves texture.
• Use chicken broth: For extra flavor instead of water.
• Add the holy trinity: Green bell pepper, onion, and celery for authentic Southern flavor.
• Use a slow cooker liner: For easy cleanup.
• Don’t over-stir: To keep the beans intact and creamy.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust before serving.

Ingredients

Those Andouille sausages are the perfect protein for this dish. With they’re awesome flavor, you almost don’t have to season it!

• Dry red beans
• Andouille sausage
• Celery stalks
• Yellow onion
• Minced garlic cloves
• Creole seasoning
• Dried thyme
• Bay leaves
• Better than Bouillon chicken
• Water
• Salt
• Black pepper

How to Make Crockpot Red Beans & Rice

The crockpot really makes this process simple and easy. Pour dry red kidney beans and the rest of the ingredients in, set it, and come back hours later! 

1. Rinse the red beans under running water in a colander for 30 seconds and allow to drain.  
2. Add the rinsed red beans, sausage, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.  Toss to combine. 
3. Add in the creole seasoning, thyme, salt, pepper, bay leaves and bouillon.  
4. Pour over the water and then stir to combine.  
5. Cover with the lid and heat on high for 6-8 hours.  Stir occasionally.  
6. Serve over rice with a garnish of parsley, if desired.  

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Crockpot Red Beans & Rice

I love the slow cooker so much more than the stovetop for this. I’m much less likely to burn it that way. Ha!

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Colander
• Large spoon
• Airtight containers

What to Serve With Crockpot Red Beans & Rice

Oh, I think there has got to be cornbread with this meal. It’s the easiest way to level things up even more!

• Cornbread: Adds a sweet and savory complement.
• Collard greens: A classic Southern side.
• Hot sauce: For those who like a bit of heat.
• Pickled onions: Adds a tangy contrast.

Why You Should Make Crockpot Red Beans & Rice

This easy slow-cooker meal is a classic for a reason. The flavor is amazing and it’s just plain simple to throw together.

• Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Hearty and filling: A comforting meal that satisfies.
• Authentic flavor: Brings the taste of New Orleans to your home.
• Perfect for busy weeknights: Let the slow cooker do all the work.

Variations and Add-Ins for Crockpot Red Beans & Rice

Let me know in the comments how you usually prepare this dish. I love hearing all your feedback. You guys come up with the best stuff!

• Add ham hocks: For a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Use smoked turkey: As a healthier alternative to sausage.
• Stir in green bell pepper: For added crunch and flavor.
• Include pinto beans: For a mix of textures.
• Add liquid smoke: For extra smoky flavor.
• Top with green onions: For a fresh, crisp garnish.

If you love this easy dinner recipe, you’re going to love these dinner recipes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great New Orleans Recipes

Beignets Recipe

Boudin King Cake

Cajun Sausage Spaghetti

Cajun Turkey Breast

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