Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

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This Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage dish is a bold, soul-warming comfort food that brings together smoky, spiced sausage, rich black beans, and perfectly seasoned rice in one pot. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly evening or need a filling meal to serve a crowd, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss.

The textures alone are reason enough to try it: the crisp edges of seared sausage, the creaminess of slow-simmered beans, and tender rice that soaks up every drop of seasoned broth. And thanks to its one-skillet simplicity, cleanup is easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or laid-back weekends.

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What Kind of Sausage Works Best?

Smoked sausage is the star of this dish. Its savory, slightly spicy flavor infuses the rice and beans as everything cooks together. Andouille sausage brings a Cajun twist with its robust seasoning, but kielbasa or even a plant-based sausage will also do the trick if you prefer something milder or meat-free. The key is choosing a sausage with bold seasoning and a firm texture that holds up during cooking.

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Ingredients for the Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

• Smoked sausage: Essential for adding deep, savory notes and a meaty bite throughout the dish.
• Black beans: Their rich, earthy flavor and creamy texture pair perfectly with the rice and sausage.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal, soaking up flavor without becoming mushy.
• Bell peppers: Adds color, crunch, and sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Onion & garlic: These aromatics are the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.
• Tomato paste: Adds depth and a hint of acidity to bring balance.
• Chicken broth: Used instead of water for cooking the rice, it adds another layer of savory flavor.
• Olive oil: Helps to brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables.
• Cajun seasoning: Brings heat, spice, and a little Southern flair.
• Green onions & parsley (optional garnish): Adds a fresh finish and a pop of color.

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How To Make the Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

Step 1: Slice and Sear the Sausage

Start by slicing your smoked sausage into thick coins. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sausage slices. Let them sear until golden and slightly crisp around the edges. This step builds flavor at the base of your skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the sausage temporarily and add chopped onion and bell peppers to the same skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t rush this step—it lays the aromatic foundation.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Seasoning

Stir in tomato paste and sprinkle over Cajun seasoning. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to caramelize slightly and deepen its flavor. You should smell the spices bloom at this point.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Broth

Return the sausage to the skillet and add drained black beans. Stir well, then pour in the chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits—they’re packed with flavor.

Step 5: Stir in the Rice

Add the uncooked rice and mix everything thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Fluff and Garnish

Turn off the heat, uncover, and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving for a fresh, herby finish.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

This dish shines as both a hearty main course and a flavorful side. Serve it straight from the skillet with a slice of cornbread or a side of sauteed greens for a down-home Southern meal. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a simple avocado slice on top for a fresher twist.

Leftovers? Even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Simply let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

You can also freeze it! Just portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on the sausage and Cajun seasoning you use. If you prefer a mild version, choose a milder sausage and go easy on the seasoning. Want heat? Opt for andouille and extra Cajun spice.

Can I use canned black beans?

Absolutely. Canned black beans work perfectly. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well to avoid excess salt.

What type of rice is best?

Long-grain white rice holds its texture well and doesn’t get mushy. You can also try jasmine or basmati for a more aromatic result.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Use a plant-based sausage and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The rest of the ingredients stay the same.

Do I need to soak the beans?

Not if you’re using canned beans. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them before adding to the recipe.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Add a splash of broth or water to loosen things up and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Covering it helps retain moisture.

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Want More One-Pot Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Hearty Black Beans and Rice with Sausage, here are a few more one-pan meals from Life with Nina that bring the flavor with less cleanup:

• One Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Mac for a spicy, creamy pasta twist.
• One Skillet Sweet Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta when you’re craving sticky-sweet heat in every bite.
• One Pot Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Pasta for a BBQ-inspired weeknight dinner.
• Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet if you want to double down on smoky flavors.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for a crispy, oven-roasted classic.

These recipes are all about bold flavor, cozy textures, and quick prep—perfect for busy nights when you want real food without the kitchen mess.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find next time you need a quick, comforting meal.

And when you try it, tag me or drop a comment below. Did you spice it up with extra Cajun heat? Swap in brown rice or a veggie sausage? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Find more of my daily recipes and meal inspiration over on Pinterest: Life with Nina. Let’s keep cooking something delicious together.

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