... Print

One-Pot Black Beans and Rice with Smoked Sausage

Close-up of a hearty serving of beans and rice mixed with sliced sausage and topped with fresh cilantro.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This is my foolproof, one-pot black beans and rice recipe, the ultimate weeknight hero. It uses simple pantry staples to create a budget-friendly, protein-packed meal with classic comfort food flavor and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 ounces smoked sausage (like Andouille), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and cook until it begins to brown slightly, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the long-grain white rice and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  7. Gently stir in the drained and rinsed black beans, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  8. Serve immediately as a hearty dinner or satisfying side dish.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
  • You can substitute black beans with pinto beans for a different taste profile.
  • This recipe is great for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition