Cheddar's Red Beans And Rice Recipe - Easy Kitchen Guide (2024)

Jump to RecipePrint Recipe

By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on August 6, 2023 | Last Updated on March 24, 2024

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is a popular restaurant chain in the United States. They offer delicious American classics made from scratch with fresh ingredients. Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice dish is a classic Cajun-style dish that has been loved by diners for decades!

This comforting and flavorful dish is easy to make and perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy this easy and delicious dish with your family!

Follow the steps below to make a classic Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice dish that everyone will love. This savory and tangy meal is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Cheddar's Red Beans And Rice Recipe - Easy Kitchen Guide (1)

What is Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice?

Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice is a classic Cajun-style dish. It features red beans and long grain white rice cooked in a flavorful broth with sausage, bell peppers, onions, garlic, celery, and spices.

This dish has all the flavors of Louisiana cooking – smoky, tangy, and just a bit spicy. This dish is great for weeknights, as it can be made in one pot and ready in about an hour.

It’s also perfect for entertaining; the combination of flavors will please everyone in your family or at gatherings. Red beans & rice is a classic that never disappoints!

Want more Burger Recipes? Check them out!

  • Persian Tomato Rice
  • Qdoba Brown Rice
  • Ground Lamb And Rice
  • Campbell’s Beef Consomme Rice
  • Chicken Broth Rice Cooker
  • Pf Chang’s Crab Fried Rice
  • Okazuya Long Rice

What does it taste like?

Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice has a unique flavor profile that is part smoky, part tangy, and ever-so-slightly spicy. The sausage adds a delicious smokiness to the dish, while the cajun seasoning adds a complex depth of flavor.

The red beans and long grain white rice add texture and absorb all the flavors from the broth. This dish is comforting and satisfying but not overly heavy.

The bright flavor of parsley brings all the ingredients together and adds a herby freshness to the dish. It’s an easy but delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How did I first get introduced to Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice?

I first got introduced to Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice when I visited one of their restaurants for the first time. I was looking for a comforting meal and decided to try this classic dish. As soon as I tasted it, I knew it was something special!

The smoky sausage combined with the tangy spices and creamy red beans and rice was an absolute delight. Every bite was full of flavor and I just couldn’t get enough!

I knew I had to try to recreate this dish at home, so I researched the ingredients and tried my hand at making it. After a few tries, I finally perfected the recipe and now make it regularly for my family.

Making Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice at home isn’t difficult and the result is always satisfying. I love to add some freshly grated cheddar cheese on top, as well as diced tomatoes, parsley, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

It’s one of my favorite recipes to make and it’s always a hit with my family! I highly recommend you give it a try, if you haven’t already. You won’t regret it!

How to make Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice?

Making Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice at home is surprisingly easy. All you need are a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to make this classic dish.

You May Also Like These Dinner Recipes:

  • Concession Stand Hot Dog Chili Copycat Recipe
  • Recipe of Buffalo Chicken Pasta No Cream Cheese
  • Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad Copycat Recipe

Ingredients

  • Extra virgin olive oil: This will be used to cook the sausage and other ingredients.
  • Smoked andouille sausage: This type of sausage is common in Cajun cuisine. It adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
  • Onion, bell pepper, celery: These vegetables add texture and flavor to the dish.
  • Garlic: Garlic adds an earthy flavor to the dish.
  • Cajun seasoning: This spice blend is what gives this dish its classic Cajun flavor.
  • Chicken broth: The chicken broth helps to create a flavorful liquid for the beans and rice.
  • Red beans: Red beans are an essential ingredient in any red beans & rice dish.
  • Cayenne, ground sage, salt and ground black pepper: These spices add a bit of heat and a depth of flavor.
  • Bay leaf: Bay leaves are often used in Cajun dishes for an earthy flavor.
  • Long grain white rice/or basmati rice: Rice is an essential part of red beans & rice. Long grain white rice or basmati rice will work best.
  • Fresh parsley: The fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal flavor to the dish.
Cheddar's Red Beans And Rice Recipe - Easy Kitchen Guide (2)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables are softened and sausage is lightly browned.

Step 3

Add the chicken broth, red beans, cayenne, ground sage, salt, ground black pepper and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 45 minutes or until the beans are tender.

Step 4

Serve the red beans over rice!

Tips and tricks

  • Use good quality sausage for the best flavor.
  • For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of cajun seasoning.
  • To make this dish vegan, omit the sausage and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or splash of hot sauce to give your red beans & rice an extra kick!
  • Top your red beans & rice with diced tomatoes, chopped parsley, and/or grated cheddar cheese.
  • For creamy red beans & rice, stir in ½ cup of sour cream at the end.
  • To make it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
  • For an even heartier dish, try adding diced ham or bacon.
  • If you don’t have any Cajun seasoning on hand, make your own using a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme and cayenne pepper.
  • Red beans & rice can be served over cooked greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Cheddar's Red Beans And Rice Recipe - Easy Kitchen Guide (3)

Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is a popular restaurant chain in the United States. They offer delicious American classics made from scratch with fresh ingredients. Cheddar's Red Beans & Rice dish is a classic Cajun-style dish that has been loved by diners for decades! This comforting and flavorful dish is easy to make and perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy this easy and delicious dish with your family!

No ratings yet

PrintPinRate

Author: Lori Walker, MS, RD

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 3 people

Calories: 959kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1/2 green bell pepper diced, lending a fresh and crisp taste, providing a subtle bitterness that balances the other flavors.
  • 1/2 small onion diced, contributing a mild and slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the aromatic profile of the dish.
  • 1 celery stalk diced, adding a refreshing and earthy note, contributing a pleasant crunch and enhancing the overall texture.
  • 1 and 1/2 cloves garlic minced, releasing its pungent and aromatic essence, elevating the savory profile of the dish.
  • 1/2 bay leaf infusing the dish with a subtle herbal note, enhancing the overall aroma and depth of flavor.
  • 3/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning delivering a bold and zesty blend of spices, bringing a delightful heat and complexity to the dish.
  • 1/2 cup long grain white rice or basmati rice providing a delicate and fluffy texture, serving as a comforting bed for the beans.
  • 1/16 teaspoon ground sage imparting a warm and earthy aroma, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
  • 6 ounces smoked andouille sausage sliced, infusing a smoky and savory essence, adding depth and complexity to the beans.
  • 1 can red beans drained and rinsed, providing a creamy and velvety texture, while also adding a robust flavor to the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon diced fresh parsley adding a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herbal taste, enhancing the presentation and flavor profile of the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne adding a fiery kick and a vibrant heat, enhancing the overall spiciness of the beans.
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper more to taste, adding a subtle heat and a hint of spiciness, complementing the other flavors.
  • 1 and 1/2 cups chicken broth infusing the beans with a rich and savory base, intensifying the flavors and adding moisture.
  • 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil providing a fruity and robust flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt more to taste, enhancing the natural tastes of the ingredients, ensuring a well-balanced seasoning.

Instructions

  • Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables are softened and sausage is lightly browned.

  • Add the chicken broth, red beans, cayenne, ground sage, salt, ground black pepper and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 45 minutes or until the beans are tender.

  • Serve the red beans over rice!

Notes

  • Use good quality sausage for the best flavor.
  • For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of cajun seasoning.
  • To make this dish vegan, omit the sausage and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or splash of hot sauce to give your red beans & rice an extra kick!
  • Top your red beans & rice with diced tomatoes, chopped parsley, and/or grated cheddar cheese.
  • For creamy red beans & rice, stir in ½ cup of sour cream at the end.
  • To make it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
  • For an even heartier dish, try adding diced ham or bacon.
  • If you don’t have any Cajun seasoning on hand, make your own using a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme and cayenne pepper.
  • Red beans & rice can be served over cooked greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Keyword: Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice Recipe

Nutrition Information

Cheddar's Red Beans And Rice Recipe - Easy Kitchen Guide (4)

What to serve with Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice?

  • Cornbread: The perfect accompaniment to a dish like this is some freshly made cornbread.
  • Green Salad: Balance out the smokiness of the red beans & rice with a crisp, green salad.
  • Hot Sauce: Add some extra spice and kick to the dish by adding a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.
  • Fried Okra: The crunchy texture of fried okra is a great contrast to the creamy red beans & rice.
  • Collard Greens: Cooked collard greens are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with this smoky dish.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: For something a bit on the sweeter side, try serving your red beans & rice with some crispy sweet potato fries.
  • Mac and Cheese: Make it a classic Southern meal by serving your red beans & rice with some creamy homemade mac and cheese.
  • Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw is an easy way to add color, crunch, and freshness to the dish.

How to store leftover Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice?

Leftover red beans & rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. To store, transfer the cooled red beans & rice to an airtight container and refrigerate.

When you are ready to eat, reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave with a few tablespoons of water until hot. You can also freeze leftover red beans & rice for up to 3 months.

To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.

When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a few tablespoons of water until hot.

Can pregnant women eat this?

Pregnant women can eat this Cheddar’s Red Beans & Rice, but should be aware of some important food safety considerations. Pregnant women should avoid eating undercooked sausage as it may contain harmful bacteria that could cause foodborne illness.

In addition, pregnant women should be sure to check the label on any pre-packaged seasonings, such as cajun seasoning, for added salt or sugar. Too much of either can be harmful to both the mother and baby’s health.

Additionally, pregnant women should avoid eating raw parsley as it may contain bacteria that could cause foodborne illness.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can certainly use canned beans instead of dried beans in this dish. Just be sure to drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the pot.

Is it possible to make a vegan version of this dish?

Absolutely! To make a vegan version of this dish, omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add diced tofu for added protein.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to customize this dish and add other vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms. Just be sure to cook the vegetables until softened before adding the red beans.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, to make this dish spicier you can add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You could also add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Wrapping Up

Thank you for taking the time to learn about this easy and delicious red beans & rice recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of smoky red beans & rice any night of the week!

Now that you know the basics of making red beans & rice, why not give it a try? We promise that if you follow our article, you won’t be disappointed! Do not forget to share this article with your friends and family.

You Might Also Like These Recipes!

  • Foie Gras Mousse Copycat Recipe
  • Copycat Recipe of Bojangles Pinto Beans
  • Jimmy Buffett Margarita Machine Copycat Recipe

Author Profile

Lori Walker, MS, RD

My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more

Cheddar's Red Beans And Rice Recipe - Easy Kitchen Guide (2024)

FAQs

Does Cheddars have red beans and rice? ›

RED BEANS & RICE | Menu | Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen.

How to make red beans and rice thicker? ›

If your red beans and rice is on the thinner side, you can either add a roux or a simple slurry to help thicken it. Use a simple ratio of 1 part cornstarch to 2 parts water to make the slurry add about a ¼ cup of it and gently whisk it into the red beans.

What does adding butter to red beans do? ›

And if you love cooking red beans, you probably have a favorite kind of fat that adds the dimension, flavor and creaminess you can't live without. For many, it's butter — with its rich, creamy dairy flavor, it feels good in your mouth and makes other flavors taste better, too.

Can I substitute kidney beans for red beans and rice? ›

They're both red, but they are two different beans, but you can use either one in this recipe. Scroll down to my step by step photos after the recipe to see a photo of red beans and kidney beans side by side.

Did Olive Garden buy Cheddar's? ›

This article is for subscribers only. Darden Restaurants Inc. gained the most in more than three years after topping earnings estimates and agreeing to buy Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, giving the owner of Olive Garden a fresh source of growth.

What is red beans and rice made of? ›

Making red beans and rice from scratch is easy; all it takes is beans, vegetables, some cured pork and sausage, and patience.

What does red beans and rice do to your body? ›

These winning sides contain amino acids that blend together to make complete proteins. Most people do not get enough complete protein in their diets. When you eat plenty of rice and beans, you can easily get lean protein. Eating more protein can help you build muscle mass and maintain a healthy weight.

Do you have to soak your beans for red beans and rice? ›

Dried beans should be soaked prior to cooking for easier digestion and faster cook time. There are two commonly used ways to soak beans: overnight or quick soak. The overnight method is incredibly simple — add beans to a large stockpot and cover them with twice their volume in water. Cover and let sit overnight.

What if there is too much liquid in red beans and rice? ›

If there's too much liquid in the pot, raise the heat back up to a rolling boil to burn off some of the liquid. After letting the pot boil for 10-15 minutes, reduce heat, and let simmer for 20 minutes. To make it a memorable experience, add a bottle of beer to the pot when you add the red beans.

Why do you put baking soda in red beans? ›

Baking soda creates an alkaline environment which reduces soaking and cooking time and preserves the beans' skin.

What meat is good with red beans and rice? ›

A few that come to mind are:
  • Fried, grilled or smoked chicken.
  • Fried Oysters, scallops, shrimp or clams.
  • Smothered, grilled or fried pork chops.
  • Steak.
  • Smoked meats such as pork ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or hot links.
  • Fried, grilled, or blackened fish.
  • Meatloaf.
Mar 2, 2018

Why add butter to red beans and rice? ›

The Big Fat Secret Behind Creamy and Flavorful Red Beans
  1. Fat is the key to flavorful, creamy red beans.
  2. Cooking Oils: With mild, nuanced flavors, oils add depth and creaminess and complement other flavors in the pot.
  3. Butter: Luxuriously smooth and creamy, it carries flavors and spices into the rest of the dish.
Aug 28, 2015

How do you make red beans and rice less gassy? ›

Soaking overnight and then discarding the soaking water leaches out sugars in beans that are responsible for gas production. But if you don't have time for a traditional overnight soak, a quick soak is just as beneficial. Rinse the beans and then place them in a pot with three cups of water for each cup of dried beans.

Which beans are not good for kidney? ›

Control of phosphorus often is difficult for kidney failure patients. High-phosphorus foods to eliminate include: Beans (red, black, and white) Black-eyed peas.

Are pinto beans and red beans the same? ›

Pinto beans have a creamy texture and more earthy flavour; red beans have a meaty, dense structure and slightly sweet flavour. Pinto beans are lower in calories and have more vitamins than red beans.

Where do they eat red beans and rice? ›

Nothing beats a hearty bowl of red beans and rice. This beloved dish, cherished by locals and visitors of New Orleans, embodies the city's soulful cuisine. With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and comforting blend of spices, the dish is like a hug in a bowl.

What is the best packaged red beans and rice? ›

Zatarain's red beans and rice are the best store bought red beans and rice we tried—a little spicy, perfectly creamy, and super filling.

What state is known for red beans and rice? ›

Red beans and rice is an emblematic dish of Louisiana Creole cuisine (not originally of Cajun cuisine) traditionally made on Mondays with Kidney beans, vegetables (bell pepper, onion, and celery), spices (thyme, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf) and pork bones as left over from Sunday dinner, cooked together slowly in a ...

How many calories are in Cheddars red beans and rice? ›

There are 230 calories in 1 serving of Cheddar's Red Beans & Rice. * The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Melvina Ondricka

Last Updated:

Views: 6072

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (68 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Melvina Ondricka

Birthday: 2000-12-23

Address: Suite 382 139 Shaniqua Locks, Paulaborough, UT 90498

Phone: +636383657021

Job: Dynamic Government Specialist

Hobby: Kite flying, Watching movies, Knitting, Model building, Reading, Wood carving, Paintball

Introduction: My name is Melvina Ondricka, I am a helpful, fancy, friendly, innocent, outstanding, courageous, thoughtful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.