I absolutely love Southern cuisine, and one of my favorite dishes is Southern Style Red Beans and Rice. This classic dish is a staple in Louisiana and other Southern states, and it’s easy to see why.
The combination of red beans, rice, and flavorful spices creates a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
If you’ve never tried Southern Style Red Beans and Rice before, you’re in for a treat. It’s a simple dish that is packed with flavor and is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Southern Red Beans And Rice
Experience the heart and soul of Southern cuisine with this delightful Red Beans and Rice recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried red kidney beans
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 smoked ham hock
- 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups water
- 4 cups cooked white rice
Notes
I usually serve the beans over a bed of fluffy white rice. But you can mix them and serve them that way.

Instructions
1. To make Southern Style Red Beans and Rice, start by soaking 1 pound of red beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

2. In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 3 cloves of minced garlic in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the soaked beans, 1 smoked ham hock, 2 bay leaves, and enough water to cover the beans by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened.

4. Remove the ham hock and bay leaves, and use a fork to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked white rice, and garnish with sliced green onions and hot sauce.

I love making this classic Southern dish for a hearty and flavorful meal that always satisfies. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
