There’s nothing quite like walking into the kitchen and smelling a pot of red beans and rice that’s been simmering away all day. This Slow Cooker Cajun Red Beans and Rice is comfort food at its finest—hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully hands-off. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home: warm, filling, and perfect for gathering family around the table. And the best part? With your slow cooker doing all the work, it’s a beginner-friendly recipe that anyone can make with simple pantry staples.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Main Dish |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 7–8 hours (slow cooker) |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | ~400 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight (or quick-soaked)
- 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced into coins
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
- Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the beans. If using dried beans, soak them overnight, then drain and rinse before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and reduces cook time.
- Layer the ingredients. In your slow cooker, add the soaked beans, sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Cook low and slow. Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally if you can.
- Taste and adjust. Before serving, remove bay leaves, then taste the beans. Add extra Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper to your liking.
- Serve it up. Spoon the red beans over warm white rice, and garnish with parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
Cooking Tip: If the beans are too thick, add a splash of warm broth. If too soupy, mash a few beans against the side of the pot to thicken naturally.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Spice control: For mild heat, use regular sausage. For more kick, stick with Andouille or add a dash of hot sauce at the end.
- Make ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer-friendly: Red beans and rice freezes well! Freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
- Rice trick: Cook rice fresh when serving so it stays fluffy and doesn’t clump.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swaps: Try turkey sausage or even shredded chicken thighs for a lighter twist.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth; add extra bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spicy boost: Stir in cayenne pepper or a splash of Louisiana hot sauce for extra Cajun heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with cornbread or buttery biscuits to soak up all that flavorful broth.
- Add a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- For a true Southern feast, serve alongside fried okra or collard greens.
Conclusion
Few meals bring people together quite like a pot of red beans and rice. This Slow Cooker Cajun Red Beans and Rice is cozy, flavorful, and as comforting as a Sunday supper at Grandma’s. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a warm bowl of goodness waiting for you after a long day, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Grab your slow cooker, set it, and let the magic happen—you’ll be rewarded with a meal that tastes like home.