Savory Smoked Sausage and Red Beans Rice Medley
This Savory Smoked Sausage and Red Beans Rice Medley is a comforting, flavorful one-dish meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The smoky richness of the sausage blends beautifully with hearty kidney beans and colorful vegetables, all simmered to perfection in seasoned chicken broth. Choosing between white or brown rice allows for flexibility and customization based on your preference. This dish not only warms your belly but is also easy to modify with additional veggies or spices. With its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients, it's sure to become a family favorite!
6-8
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
smoked sausage
1 lb (cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
dark red kidney beans
1 (14 ounce) can (drained and rinsed)
light kidney beans
1 (14 ounce) can (drained and rinsed)
chicken broth
2 cups (seasoned is best)
water
1 cup
red bell pepper
1/2 cup (chopped)
onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
celery
1/2 cup (chopped)
cayenne seasoning
2 tablespoons (see note)
Louisiana hot sauce
2 teaspoons (to taste)
white rice (or brown rice)
1 cup (instant or not)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the smoked sausage into 1/2 inch pieces and lightly browning them in a large pot over medium heat until slightly crispy.
2
Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped red bell pepper, onion, and celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3
Pour in the drained and rinsed dark red and light kidney beans, followed by the chicken broth and water. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and stir in the cayenne seasoning and Louisiana hot sauce to taste.
5
Add the white or brown rice, then cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer according to the rice package instructions until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
6
Once the rice is done, remove from the heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
7
Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors of this savory dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning and add more hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Smoked Sausage and Red Beans Rice Medley?
It is a comforting, flavorful one-dish meal that combines smoked sausage, hearty kidney beans, colorful vegetables, and rice simmered in seasoned broth.
What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
Any smoked sausage works well. Browning the sausage first adds a slightly crispy texture and a deep smoky flavor to the entire medley.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, turkey smoked sausage is an excellent lower-fat alternative that still provides a great smoky profile for the dish.
Do I have to use both light and dark kidney beans?
No, you can use two cans of the same type if preferred, but using both provides a nice variety of texture and color.
Can I substitute kidney beans with other beans?
Certainly! Pinto beans or black beans are great substitutes that pair well with smoked sausage and rice.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level is moderate due to the cayenne seasoning and Louisiana hot sauce, but it can be easily adjusted to your preference.
How can I make the dish milder?
To reduce the heat, simply decrease the amount of cayenne seasoning and omit or reduce the Louisiana hot sauce.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice is a healthy alternative. Just be sure to adjust the simmering time and liquid according to the brown rice package instructions.
Do I need to cook the rice separately?
No, the dry rice is added directly into the pot with the broth and beans to simmer and absorb all the flavors.
What vegetables are in this medley?
The recipe uses a classic combination of red bell pepper, onion, and celery, often referred to as the holy trinity of Southern cooking.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, you can easily modify this dish by adding extra bell peppers, carrots, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 6 to 8 servings, making it perfect for families or meal prep.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is prepared in a single large pot, which makes both the cooking process and the cleanup very simple.
What kind of broth is recommended?
Seasoned chicken broth is recommended as it provides the most flavorful base for the rice and beans.
Can I use vegetable broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a fine substitute if you prefer it over chicken broth.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, this medley freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use instant rice?
Yes, the recipe allows for instant rice; just ensure you adjust the cooking time to match the instant rice package instructions.
How do I prepare the sausage?
The sausage should be cut into 1/2 inch pieces and browned in a pot over medium heat until slightly crispy before adding vegetables.
How long do I sauté the vegetables?
Sauté the red bell pepper, onion, and celery for about 5 to 7 minutes until they start to soften.
Why should I let it sit for 5 minutes after cooking?
Letting it sit covered allows the rice to finish absorbing any remaining moisture and helps the flavors fully meld together.
Do I need to rinse the beans?
Yes, it is recommended to drain and rinse the canned kidney beans to remove excess salt and starch before adding them to the pot.
Can I add more hot sauce at the end?
Absolutely! Feel free to add an extra splash of Louisiana hot sauce to your individual serving if you want more heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your smoked sausage and chicken broth to ensure no hidden gluten.
How much cayenne should I use if I'm sensitive to spice?
Start with just a pinch or half a teaspoon rather than the full 2 tablespoons if you are sensitive to heat.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What size should the vegetables be chopped?
Chopping the onion, celery, and bell pepper into small, uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly and blend well with the rice.
What is the texture of this dish?
It is a hearty, thick medley where the rice is tender and the beans and sausage provide a satisfying, chunky texture.
Can I use water instead of broth?
The recipe uses a combination of both, but using broth provides much more flavor than using water alone.
Is this dish suitable for casual gatherings?
Yes, it is a great crowd-pleaser that is easy to serve and very filling for a large group.