Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef
Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef is one of those hearty, comforting dishes that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The mix of savory ground beef, flavorful Cajun seasonings, and creamy red beans creates such a satisfying combo that I can’t help but go back for seconds (or thirds). I love that it all comes together in under an hour, and you can keep it simple with just a few pantry staples. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week, this dish is always a hit.
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Why You’ll Love Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef
- Comfort Food in a Bowl: The combo of ground beef, red beans, and spices is the ultimate cozy meal.
- Quick to Make: From prep to plate in under an hour, it’s a simple but filling dish.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked together in one pot or Dutch oven.
- Packed with Flavor: Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cumin bring a bold punch to this classic dish.
- Perfect for Leftovers: It keeps well and actually tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients Needed To Make Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef
- Ground beef
- Red beans
- Bell pepper
- Celery
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Vegetable stock
- Cajun seasoning
- Kosher salt
- Smoked paprika
- Cumin
- Black pepper
- Bay leaf
- Tomato paste
- Rice
- Hot sauce
- Fresh parsley
How To Make Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef
- Heat a pot with olive oil and cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the diced vegetables and cook until softened.
- Stir in the spices, beans, stock, and tomato paste.
- Let it simmer until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens.
- Serve over rice with hot sauce and fresh parsley on top.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes! If you prefer turkey, chicken, or pork, those work well as a substitute for ground beef. The recipe will still be delicious!
How can I make this dish spicier?
To turn up the heat, you can add extra Cajun seasoning, some diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce in the mix.
How do I store leftover Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop overnight, so it might taste even better the next day!
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this recipe freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can store it for up to three months.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it with a side of cornbread, a simple salad, or some garlic bread to round out the meal!
This Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef has become one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to make—what’s not to love? Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something warm and hearty, it never disappoints.
Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef
Equipment
- 1 Stockpot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound Laura's Lean Ground Beef
- 3 cans (15-ounce) red beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 large bell pepper (diced)
- 4 celery ribs (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups vegetable stock
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- Cooked rice, hot sauce, and fresh parsley (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven on medium heat with olive oil.
- Add the ground beef and onions. Use the back of your spoon to break up the ground beef as it cooks.
- Once the ground beef is just cooked through, add the remaining ingredients, stirring to combine.
- Allow the beans to come toa simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve with rice, hot sauce, and garnish with parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
This Red Beans and Rice with Ground Beef has become one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to make—what’s not to love? Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something warm and hearty, it never disappoints.
So easy and delicious! I didn’t change anything
Can you use kidney beans in place of red beans? I can never find low sodium red beans.
Absolutely!