Rice and red beans recipe

I’m always on the lookout for satisfying, hearty recipes that have the rich flavors of a slow-cooked meal but can be prepared quickly. That’s why my Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef recipe is a go-to for weeknight dinners. 

Despite its deep, comforting taste, it comes together in no time—perfect for busy nights when you want a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you give this recipe a try, it’s bound to become a family favorite. 

Whether you're looking to shake up your dinner routine or craving a classic Southern dish, this Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef will be a hit at your table!

Homemade Red beans and rice is a classic Creole dish traditionally made on Mondays. It would simmer away all day as the dried beans softened and the sauce thickened. Infused with Cajun spices and the fresh flavors of the trinity, onions, celery, bell pepper, and garlic, it just deepens in flavor the longer it cooks.

Health Benefits of Rice Beans and Ground Beef

Rice and beans form a powerful duo, packed with essential nutrients that support overall health. Together, they provide a complete protein profile, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. Their nutritional highlights include: High in Fiber , Rich in Vitamins and Minerals , Thiamin (B1) , Folate (B9) , Magnesium , Manganese , Low in Fat. 

Incorporating rice and beans into recipes can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which is a crucial aspect for weight management. For example, one cup of cooked rice with beans contains about 8.4 grams of dietary fiber, which contributes significantly to daily fiber intake.

While plant-based proteins are fantastic, incorporating ground beef can also have its advantages, particularly due to its dense nutrient profile. Here are the primary benefits of including ground beef in your diet:

High in Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth, with about 19.7 grams of protein per serving of rice and beans with beef. Rich in Vitamins , Ground beef is an excellent source of Riboflavin (B2) , Niacin (B3) , Vitamin B6 , Zinc and  Selenium

By blending these ingredients in your recipes , one can benefit from a diverse nutrient base. For instance, a complete dish of rice, beans, and ground beef not only adds variety to the plate but also offers a balanced intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals crucial for maintaining health.

Ingredients needed for rice and red beans recipe

Canned red beans are simmered with fresh vegetables, Cajun seasonings, and hearty and lean ground beef. So , to prepare this Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef recipe , you will need : 

• 1 lbs Ground Beef
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 3 15 oz cans red beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 bell pepper, diced large
• 4 celery ribs, diced
• 3 cups vegetable stock
• 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 oz tomato paste
• Serve with cooked rice, hot sauce, and fresh parsley

This recipe takes all of the classic flavors and updates it in a weeknight friendly way. Canned red beans make this dish come together in well under an hour.

How to Make Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef?

If you have 30 minutes and a pot, you can have this delicious recipe and nutritious meal on the table! Time needed: 30 minutes . 

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add olive oil. Add the ground beef and onions, using the back of a spoon to break up the beef as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the remaining ingredients and mix well.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender. Serve over rice, with hot sauce on the side, and garnish with parsley.

Enjoy!

Top Tip for Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef

Using canned beans in your recipe is a great way to both add protein and fiber to a dish while also make it quick cooking. You can use low sodium varieties to cut back on the salt since you will be adding your own layers of flavors and spices. Adding the spices early in the cooking process will make the most flavorful red beans and rice.

Cooking for Two? This recipe can be cut in half to serve two portions. It also freezes well, so if you prepare an entire recipe you can save half in the freezer for a later date!

Want to Prep Ahead? You can prepare this meal ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Cook the rice just before serving, and reheat the meat and beans.

How to store leftovers?

This Red Beans and Rice can be prepared ahead of time for those crazy days when you don’t want to do anything more than reheat a meal. It’s freezer-friendly, and I swear that it just gets better as it sits!

This is a great recipe for leftovers because it tastes even better the next day. Store leftover red beans and rice in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container, or you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. 

Defrost frozen red beans and rice in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on top of the stove.

Variations – Rice And Beans recipe 

Prefer a red beans vegetarian recipe ? Mom’s Red Beans and Rice can easily be made meat-free — just add an extra can of beans in place of the beef. Want a low-carb or healthier version? Try serving the beans over cauliflower rice, brown rice, or quinoa (Red beans recipes without rice!

The dinner is so customizable, and the toppings are an added bonus! My boys love to pile their bowls high with a mountain of shredded cheese (of course), while Keith and I love a fresh burst from the green onions and the zip from a dash of hot sauce. 

In my home, a vibrant salad loaded with fresh vegetables often rounds out the meal, bringing color and crunch alongside the comforting heartiness of rice and beans. The key is to allow each dish to complement one another, creating a satisfying and harmonious dining experience.