If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, this Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe is precisely what you need. Bringing together the smoky richness of sausage, the creamy tang of sour cream, and the classic Southern flavors of red beans and rice, this casserole is a delightful twist on a beloved staple. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Plus, it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve at your next potluck.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe comes from a handful of straightforward ingredients, each contributing to the overall texture, taste, and visual appeal of the dish. From smoky sausage to cheesy fried onions, every element plays a key role.
- Zatarain’s Dirty Rice (8 oz box): This flavorful rice mix is the backbone, adding a Cajun-inspired spicy and savory taste.
- Smoked Sausage (1 lb, chopped): Adds a deep smoky flavor and hearty protein to keep the casserole satisfying.
- Red Beans (2 cans, 15 oz each, drained and rinsed): Provides creaminess, fiber, and classic bean texture essential in the dish.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can, undiluted): Gives a velvety creaminess that binds everything together without overpowering.
- Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds a luscious tang and smooth texture for balanced richness.
- French Fried Onions (2.8 oz can): Provides a crunchy golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole base.
- Cooking spray: Keeps your casserole dish non-stick and helps the onions toast perfectly.
How to Make Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF, ensuring your final bake will be done at just the right temperature. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and help everything cook evenly. This simple prep sets you up for success from the start.
Step 2: Cook the Smoked Sausage and Dirty Rice
In a large skillet, cook the chopped smoked sausage over medium heat until it starts to brown and release that irresistible smoky aroma. Then, add the dirty rice mix and the water indicated on the package and cook according to the directions. This step infuses the rice with the sausage flavor and Cajun spices that define this recipe’s character.
Step 3: Combine the Key Ingredients
Once your sausage and dirty rice are ready, remove from heat and stir in the rinsed red beans, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. This blend will give the casserole its creamy, cohesive texture while balancing the smoky and spicy notes with smooth, rich undertones.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the rice mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the French fried onions generously across the top — this will bake into a crunchy, golden crust that adds the perfect savory crunch as a topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes or until bubbly and heated through. The bubbling from the casserole promises a hot, satisfying dish, and the onions will turn a beautiful golden brown, signaling that it is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate this cozy casserole. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and a fresh bite that cuts through the richness. A squeeze of lemon juice alongside servings can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or sautéed greens like spinach or kale can provide balance and freshness. Cornbread or crusty bread on the side is classic — perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, serve this casserole in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight from the oven to the table. Alternatively, portion out individual servings in small ramekins for a charming presentation that makes every plate feel special and restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a quick, delicious meal ready to reheat without fuss.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the oven, setting it at 350ºF and heating for about 20 minutes keeps the casserole creamy, with the crispy onion topping retaining some of its crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh red beans instead of canned for the Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe?
Yes, fresh or dried red beans can be used, but you’ll need to soak and cook dried beans separately before incorporating them into the casserole. Using canned red beans is a great shortcut that saves time without losing flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap out smoked sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge before baking. This is perfect for getting dinner ready in advance and simply popping it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
What can I substitute for French fried onions if I can’t find them?
Crushed crispy fried shallots or even panko breadcrumbs toasted with a bit of oil can replicate that crunchy, golden topping. They provide texture and a toasty flavor that complements the casserole well.
How spicy is this Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe?
The level of spice is mild to moderate, mainly coming from the Zatarain’s Dirty Rice mix and smoked sausage. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or some hot sauce when stirring the mixture.
Final Thoughts
This Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe is a fantastic way to bring a classic comfort food into a simple, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in under an hour. Its blend of smoky, creamy, and crunchy textures makes it addictive and endlessly tasty. I encourage you to dig in, try it yourself, and make this hearty casserole a new favorite in your home kitchen!
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Red Beans & Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Red Beans & Rice Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish combining smoky sausage, seasoned dirty rice, tender red beans, and a creamy topping, all baked to bubbly perfection and topped with crispy French fried onions for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (8-oz) box Zatarain’s Dirty Rice
- 1 lb smoked sausage, chopped
- 2 (15-oz) cans red beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup, undiluted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (2.8-oz) can French fried onions
Additional
- Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
- Water as required by dirty rice package instructions (amount typically about 1 1/3 cups)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Cook Sausage and Prepare Rice: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped smoked sausage until it starts to brown, releasing flavorful juices. Then, add the dirty rice mix along with the amount of water indicated on the package (usually around 1 1/3 cups). Prepare the dirty rice following the package directions, allowing it to fully cook and absorb the liquid.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat once the rice and sausage are fully cooked. Stir in the drained and rinsed red beans, undiluted cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until the mixture is evenly combined and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the French fried onions over the top to create a crispy, savory topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the fried onions on top are golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked sausage with andouille or kielbasa for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace sausage with plant-based sausage and use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
- Be mindful of the salt content when using canned soup and beans; adjust seasoning accordingly.
- French fried onions add a signature crunch but can be omitted for a softer topping.
- Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
