Popeyes Red Beans and Rice Recipe
This Popeyes Red Beans and Rice Recipe isn’t just another side dish—it’s a star on its own. The beans are creamy and rich, packed with smoky sausage and Cajun spices. Then there’s the rice, fluffy and perfect for soaking up all that flavor.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried red kidney beans – The hearty base of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – For cooking the sausage and veggies.
- 1 medium yellow onion – Chopped fine for flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper – Diced small for a little crunch.
- 2 celery stalks – Chopped to add depth.
- 3 garlic cloves – Minced for that bold kick.
- 8 ounces smoked sausage – Andouille if you can find it sliced thin.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Brings the smoky vibe.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds an earthy note.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – For a gentle heat.
- 1 teaspoon salt – To tie it all together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little spice boost.
- 6 cups water – For cooking the beans.
- 2 cups long-grain white rice – Cooked separately to serve with the beans.
- 2 green onions – Chopped for a fresh finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beans
- Rinse the dried red kidney beans under cold water in a colander. Pick out any small stones or funky beans. Put them in a large pot and cover with water—about 6 cups. Let them soak overnight if you can, or at least 6 hours. This softens them up.
- If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit off the heat for an hour. Either way works fine.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Veggies
- Drain the soaked beans and set them aside. In that same large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s browned a bit.
- Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. The kitchen will start smelling amazing already.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
- Put the drained beans back in the pot with the sausage and veggies. Add the smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together so the spices coat everything.
- Pour in 6 cups of fresh water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir now and then, and mash some beans against the side of the pot near the end to thicken it up.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
- While the beans simmer, cook the rice. In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the 2 cups of long-grain white rice and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the water’s gone and the rice is fluffy.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and keep it warm until the beans are ready.
Step 5: Serve It Up
- Check the beans—they should be soft and creamy. If it’s too watery, simmer uncovered for a bit longer. Spoon the beans over a pile of rice in bowls. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. That’s your Popeyes Red Beans and Rice Recipe, hot and ready.