If you need an affordable, family-friendly dinner, a simple weeknight meal, or a make-ahead dish that feeds a crowd, this Crock-Pot Red Beans and Rice With Sausage delivers big, comforting flavor with minimal effort.
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Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice with Sausage is the kind of dish that smells like home from the first hour. Smoky andouille, tender beans, and a sofrito-like mix of vegetables simmer together in the crock-pot to build a deep, satisfying broth without constant attention.
This version streamlines prep by using canned red beans, saving time while keeping the hearty, traditional flavor. Andouille sausage adds smokiness and a touch of heat, while diced ham gives extra savory depth. Celery, bell peppers, onions, and green onions create the classic base that softens and melds into the sauce as it cooks.
A simple tip lifts the final result: let the pot rest 10–15 minutes after cooking before serving. The brief rest allows the broth to settle and thicken slightly. If you prefer a creamier texture, mash a small portion of the beans against the slow cooker side and stir them back in just before serving.
Serving the beans over warm white rice is essential — the rice soaks up the flavorful liquid and turns every spoonful into comfort food. This dish holds up well as leftovers and often tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or busy households.
Quick to assemble and forgiving in the cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or any time you want a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that feeds a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crock-Pot Red Beans and Rice With Sausage stands out because it’s easy, flavorful, and family-friendly. Minimal chopping, simple pantry ingredients, and a “dump-and-go” approach let you set it in the morning and come home to a hot, comforting dinner.
The spice level is mild enough for kids while still offering depth from smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne. Leftovers reheat beautifully, so it’s a smart choice for meal prep. Using canned beans skips soaking and speeds up the process without compromising taste.
Overall, this recipe balances convenience and homemade comfort, making it an excellent go-to for families or anyone who wants a hearty Southern-style meal with little fuss.
Quick Recipe Snapshot (Time, Servings, Skill Level)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: Low 6 hours or High 4 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Difficulty: Easy
- Main Equipment: 6-quart slow cooker
Crock-Pot Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice With Sausage
This crock-pot red beans and rice with sausage is a classic Southern comfort food made easy with pantry staples, smoky sausage, and a rich, flavorful broth.
7 servings
20 minutes
6 hours 20 minutes
550 kcal
Ingredients
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1 lb andouille sausage, sliced ½-inch thick
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1 cup diced ham
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2 (16-oz) cans red beans or kidney beans, drained
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3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
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2 green bell peppers, small diced
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1 cup diced onion
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5 green onions, thinly sliced
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8 cups low-sodium chicken stock
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried oregano
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2 bay leaves
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper
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1½ tsp salt
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6 cups cooked white rice, for serving
Directions
- Add sausage, ham, beans, celery, bell peppers, onion, green onions, chicken stock, smoked paprika, dried oregano, bay leaves, cayenne, and salt to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the flavors are developed and the mixture is thickened to your liking.
- Remove bay leaves. Serve the beans over warm cooked rice and garnish with extra sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
- Place the sausage straight into the slow cooker for a true dump-and-go convenience.
- For a creamier consistency, mash a small portion of the beans against the crock side near the end of cooking and stir back in.
- Adjust heat by increasing or reducing the cayenne to suit your family’s taste.