Experience the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal with this delightful Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice recipe. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also provides a hearty serving of nutrition, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Below, you’ll find all the details to create this savory dish in your very own kitchen.
Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice
This recipe utilizes the convenience of a slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy rich, bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfectly seasoned red beans are combined with fluffy rice, creating a fulfilling meal that pairs well with crusty bread or cornbread.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried red beans, rinsed and sorted
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add the rinsed red beans, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally if possible.
- Once the beans are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to taste.
- To serve, ladle the red bean mixture over a generous scoop of cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor.
This Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice dish showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a delicious and fulfilling meal. Enjoy it as a comforting weeknight dinner or as part of a larger gathering!