If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s equal parts hearty, vibrant, and soul-satisfying, you’re going to fall in love with this Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe. It’s the kind of one-pot wonder that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your table with eager smiles. Smoky sausage, tender red beans, and fluffy white rice soak up a medley of Cajun spices, creating a meal that’s as colorful as it is comforting. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking for leftovers to savor all week, this recipe delivers all the classic flavors of Louisiana with straightforward steps and simple ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe is the simplicity of the ingredients list. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that signature Southern warmth you crave in a classic jambalaya.
- Olive oil: The perfect starter for browning sausage and creating a flavorful base.
- Smoked sausage: Adds deep, smoky richness and a satisfying bite to every spoonful.
- Celery: Brings a subtle earthiness and crunch, forming part of the Cajun “holy trinity.”
- Green bell pepper: Pops of color and a gentle sweetness to balance the spices.
- Yellow onion: Essential for depth and a hint of sweetness as it cooks down.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic punch and savory warmth.
- Cajun seasoning: The heart of the flavor profile, bringing heat and complexity.
- Smoked paprika: Layers in a smoky, slightly sweet finish.
- Dried oregano: A pinch of herbal brightness to lift the savory notes.
- Chicken broth: Ensures the rice stays tender while infusing every grain with savory richness.
- Red beans: Creamy and protein-packed, they give the dish its signature substance.
- Crushed tomatoes: Offer tang, moisture, and that beautiful red hue.
- White rice: The foundation that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- Green onion: Fresh and vibrant, perfect for finishing with a pop of color and crunch.
- Hot sauce (Crystal preferred): Brings authentic Louisiana heat and a tangy kick at the end.
How to Make Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the cubed smoked sausage. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until each piece is deeply caramelized and has a gorgeous brown crust—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this part! The browned bits at the bottom are pure flavor gold and set the stage for everything that follows.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Now, toss in your diced celery, green bell pepper, yellow onion, and the minced garlic. This is where the magic begins—the vegetables will soak up all those savory sausage drippings as they soften. Stir frequently and let them cook for 6-8 minutes, until they’re fragrant, tender, and just starting to turn golden at the edges.
Step 3: Simmer with Rice and Beans
Pour in the red beans, crushed tomatoes, white rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to combine, making sure nothing’s stuck to the bottom. Bring the mixture up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, cover the pot, and let it cook for 13-15 minutes so the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors and becomes perfectly tender.
Step 4: Rest and Fluff
Once the rice is cooked, take the pot off the heat but leave it covered for another 5 minutes. This quick rest allows the rice to finish steaming and keeps the grains light and fluffy instead of mushy. Trust me, this little pause is totally worth it!
Step 5: Serve and Finish
Uncover your jambalaya and give it a gentle fluff with a fork. Finish with a generous handful of sliced green onion and a few shakes of your favorite hot sauce (Crystal hot sauce is a true Louisiana classic). Spoon into bowls and serve piping hot—your Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe is ready to wow everyone at the table.
How to Serve Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe
Garnishes
A finishing touch can take your Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe from tasty to totally unforgettable. Freshly sliced green onion adds a crisp, peppery bite, while a few extra dashes of hot sauce bring the zing that ties everything together. If you love a little texture, try a sprinkle of chopped parsley or even a handful of crispy fried onions on top for something extra special.
Side Dishes
While this dish is definitely a meal all by itself, serving it with a side can make dinner feel like a true Southern feast. Buttery cornbread or fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce, and a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the rich, spicy flavors. If you want to go all out, a side of fried okra or sautéed greens will make your table sing with Southern spirit.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe into a showstopper with a little creativity! Serve it in individual bowls at a casual gathering, or pile it high on a big family-style platter for everyone to dig in. For parties, spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers or stuff it inside baked sweet potatoes for a fun twist. However you present it, this jambalaya is sure to be the star of the meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe is a true gift, as the flavors only get better with time. Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready for another bowl, you’ll find the rice, beans, and sausage have melded together for an even deeper, richer taste.
Freezing
If you want to stash some jambalaya for a rainy day, you’re in luck! This dish freezes beautifully. Simply portion cooled jambalaya into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, pressing out as much air as possible. Label and date, then freeze for up to three months. When cravings strike, you’ll have a homemade meal ready to reheat.
Reheating
To reheat your Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen things up, then warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. In the microwave, cover loosely and heat in bursts, stirring between each one, until piping hot. Add a sprinkle of fresh green onions and another dash of hot sauce to refresh those lively flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While smoked sausage gives the Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe its classic flavor, you can swap in andouille, kielbasa, or even turkey sausage for a lighter twist. Just be sure to brown it well for maximum flavor.
Is it possible to make this jambalaya vegetarian?
Definitely. Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra beans or toss in some sautéed mushrooms for added heartiness and umami.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
You can, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and may need extra liquid. Adjust the simmering time and check the rice for doneness before serving. The result will be a nuttier, chewier jambalaya that’s still delicious.
What’s the best way to control the spice level?
The heat mainly comes from the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. Start with a milder Cajun blend if you prefer less spice, and serve hot sauce on the side so everyone can customize their own bowl. That way, the Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe can suit every palate at the table.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just use a larger pot and keep an eye on the liquid levels—add a bit more broth if needed to ensure the rice cooks evenly. It’s a perfect choice for feeding a hungry group or prepping meals ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a homemade Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe to bring friends and family together around the table. With its bold flavors, easy preparation, and endless serving possibilities, this classic Southern dish is sure to become a regular in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked after the very first spoonful!
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Red Bean Jambalaya Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Red Bean Jambalaya recipe combines smoky sausage, vibrant vegetables, and tender red beans simmered with Cajun spices and rice to create a flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz. smoked sausage, cubed
Vegetables
- 2 celery stalks, medium-diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup green onion, sliced
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids
- 1 quart chicken broth
- 1 bottle hot sauce (Crystal preferred)
Other
- 2 (15 oz) cans red beans, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups white rice
Instructions
- Brown Sausage: In a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, add olive oil and cubed smoked sausage. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is deeply caramelized and browned to develop flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced celery, green bell pepper, yellow onion, and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
- Simmer Ingredients: Stir in the drained red beans, crushed tomatoes, white rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, cover the pot, and cook for 13-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Rest: Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to fully absorb the liquid and flavors to settle.
- Serve: Fluff the jambalaya gently with a fork. Garnish with sliced green onions and add hot sauce to taste. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic Cajun meal.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked sausage with Andouille sausage for a more traditional jambalaya flavor.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your spice preference.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- If you prefer, use brown rice but increase the simmering time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
