There’s something comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of creamy cajun spiced red beans and rice. It’s a dish that hails from Southern roots, and I remember the first time I tried it; the blend of spices and the creaminess struck a chord deep within. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker. You can set it and forget it, freeing up your time while it simmers to perfection!

The magic of this dish lies in its rich flavors and creamy texture, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. It’s a wonderful way to bring a bit of Louisiana flavor to your kitchen, and it’s budget-friendly too. This cajun classic is sure to please anyone at your table, whether they’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a delicious meal.

Why you’ll love creamy cajun spiced red beans and rice

Packed with bold flavors and spices.
Incredibly nourishing and satisfying.
Simple to prepare, with minimal cleanup.
Budget-friendly, making it great for feeding a crowd.
Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.

What ingredients do I need for creamy cajun spiced red beans and rice?

1 pound red kidney beans, soaked overnight
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked rice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredient notes & swaps

Red kidney beans: Substitute with pinto beans for a different texture.
Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Cajun seasoning: Adjust the amount for a milder or spicier flavor.

How do I make creamy cajun spiced red beans and rice step-by-step?

To make this dish, start by sautéing your vegetables before adding everything into the slow cooker. Let it simmer until the beans are tender, then mix in the rice and season to taste.

Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onions, bell peppers, and celery until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
In the slow cooker, add the soaked beans, sautéed vegetables, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and chicken broth. Stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
Once cooked, stir in the cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Pro Tip: For added creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of cream during the final step.

How should I serve it?

Serve creamy cajun spiced red beans and rice in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can also pair it with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. A squeeze of fresh lime adds a zesty touch too, balancing the flavors perfectly.

Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. If frozen, it lasts up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I fix common issues?

If your creamy cajun spiced red beans are too dry, add a bit more chicken broth. For bland flavor, enhance with more Cajun seasoning or spices. If it turns out too soggy, try mixing in additional rice to absorb excess moisture.

What variations can I try?

Get creative by adding diced tomatoes for a tangy kick or smoked sausage for extra heartiness. For a vegetarian option, toss in some chopped kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrients. You can also experiment with different beans or spices to suit your palate.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans?
Yes! If using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness depends on the amount of cayenne pepper used. Omit it for a milder dish or increase it for extra heat!

Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and eliminate any meat ingredients.

Get ready for a dish that warms your soul and fills your home with delightful aromas. Enjoy your creamy cajun spiced red beans and rice!

Creamy Cajun Spiced Red Beans and Rice

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring creamy red beans and rice with Cajun spices, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 8

Total Time 8 15

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Cajun, Southern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb red kidney beans, soaked overnight Substitute with pinto beans for a different texture.
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Cajun seasoning Adjust for spice preference.
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) Omit for a milder dish.
4 cups chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
2 cups cooked rice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Method

Preparation

Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onions, bell peppers, and celery until softened.
Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Cooking

In the slow cooker, add the soaked beans, sautéed vegetables, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and chicken broth. Stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
Once cooked, stir in the cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

For added creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of cream during the final step. Serve with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. A squeeze of fresh lime adds a zesty touch.