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Quick Cajun Red Beans & Rice

A fast and flavorful Cajun dish, this Quick Cajun Red Beans & Rice recipe is a lighter take on a classic comfort food that offers protein, fiber, and bold flavors for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 package 12-14oz smoked sausage, sliced into chunks (andouille is traditional)
  • 8 oz diced ham OR chopped and cooked bacon
  • 3 cans 15oz red beans or kidney beans, drained
  • 3 cups chicken stock
  • 1 medium onion, grated
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
  • 2 tsp cajun seasoning (I use Slap Ya Mama, yellow container)
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard powder
  • 1/4 tsp celery seed
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • Cooked to serve rice
  • Chopped to serve fresh parsley or cilantro

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the sausage into 1/4 inch chunks, slightly on the diagonal for larger pieces.
  2. Heat the oil in a 5-6qt non-stick stock pot.
  3. Add the sausage and ham, browning for 2-3 minutes on each side.
  4. Stir in the beans, chicken stock, onion, garlic, tomato paste, red wine vinegar, sriracha, cajun seasoning, ground mustard powder, celery seed, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently.
  6. Add the cornstarch and water mixture, stir well, and let cook an additional couple of minutes until thickened.
  7. Serve over cooked rice and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Notes

For a heart healthy dish, use brown rice or cauliflower rice. Portion control is key for weight loss; consider 1/2 cup beans with 1/2 cup cooked rice. Store leftovers in airtight containers; they keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on medium heat, stirring often.