Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice Recipe

A Taste of Cheddar’s at Home

Craving the comforting flavors of Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice? This copycat recipe brings the beloved restaurant dish right to your kitchen. We’ve meticulously recreated the signature blend of spices and the perfect texture of the beans, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

What sets this recipe apart is the unique combination of smoky bacon, savory ham, and the rich depth of Cajun spices. The slow-cooked red beans absorb all the delicious flavors, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice Recipe

A classic Southern comfort dish made with tender red beans, flavorful rice, and a rich blend of spices.

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes

Temperature: 180°C (356°F)

Difficulty: Moderate

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Gluten-Free: Yes

This recipe serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rice and beans. The combination of red beans, rice, and spices is a match made in heaven, and the addition of cheddar cheese takes it to a whole new level.

Ingredients for Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

To make this authentic Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 450 g / 2 cups dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 kg / 2.2 lbs smoked sausage, such as Andouille, sliced
• 2 medium onions, chopped (250 g / 1 cup)
• 3 stalks celery, chopped (150 g / 3/4 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (15 g / 1 tablespoon)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 400 g / 2 cups uncooked white rice
• 1 liter / 4 cups chicken broth
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup water
• Optional:
  • Chopped scallions for garnish (20 g / 1/4 cup)
  • Hot sauce for added spice

These ingredients will come together to create a delicious and authentic Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice dish, perfect for serving at 165°C / 325°F.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

Ready to make a comforting bowl of Cheddar’s famous red beans and rice? Follow these detailed steps to recreate the magic at home.

1. Rinse the dried red beans thoroughly in a colander.
   Place the beans in a large pot and cover them with about 3 liters (12 cups) of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
3. While the beans are simmering, prepare the rice according to package directions.
4. Once the beans are cooked, drain them, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking liquid.
5. Return the drained beans to the pot and add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced green bell pepper.
6. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
7. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
9. Stir in the reserved bean cooking liquid and the cooked rice.
10. Heat through over low heat, stirring occasionally.
11. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
12. Serve the red beans and rice hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

Unlock the full flavor potential of this beloved dish with these expert tips.

• Brown the sausage:** Cooking the sausage until it’s nicely browned creates a rich, savory flavor that’s essential to this recipe. Be patient and take the time to get it right.
• Soften the onions slowly: Sauteing the onions over low heat for a longer period brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Use the right type of rice:** Long-grain rice is the traditional choice for this recipe, as it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy.
• Avoid overcooking the beans: Red beans can become tough and unappetizing if overcooked. Check them frequently towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they’re tender but still retain some texture.
• Don’t skip the cayenne pepper:** A pinch of cayenne adds a subtle kick that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Avoid common pitfalls by not over-simmering the beans and not adding too much liquid. This can result in a dish that’s too watery and lacking in flavor.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, authentic Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

To cater to various dietary needs and preferences, several ingredients in Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice Recipe can be substituted or modified.

• For a vegetarian version, replace the 225 g / 8 oz of smoked sausage with 225 g / 8 oz of portobello mushrooms, sliced and sautéed to add depth of flavor.
• To reduce sodium, use 5 g / 1 tsp of low-sodium seasoning blend instead of the original 10 g / 2 tsp.
• For gluten-free diets, substitute 30 g / 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour with 30 g / 2 tbsp of gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.
• For a spicy kick, add 2-3 g / 1-2 tsp of diced jalapeños to the recipe, adjusting to taste.

These substitutions allow for customization of the recipe while maintaining its core flavor profile. When making adjustments, consider the flavor impact and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Variations of Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Love the classic Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice but want to shake things up? Here are a few variations to try:

1. Spicy Kick

   Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a touch of heat. If you like it extra spicy, add a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce.

   Time change: None.

2. Smoky Flavor

   Incorporate a tablespoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of liquid smoke to the beans while they simmer. This adds a delicious, smoky depth to the dish.

   Flavor change: Smoky.

3. Creamy Dream

   Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.

   Flavor change: Creamy, tangy.

4. Green Goddess

   Mix in a handful of chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a vibrant, herbaceous twist.

   Flavor change: Herbaceous, citrusy.

Storing and Reheating Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

After enjoying your delicious Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice, you can store and reheat it safely to maintain its flavor and quality.

Storage

• Let the dish cool down to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking.
• Transfer the cooled beans and rice to an airtight container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Store the container in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) or below for up to 3-5 days.

Reheating

1. Reheat the beans and rice to 74°C (165°F) or above within 2 hours of opening the container.
2. Use a saucepan or microwave-safe container to reheat, and ensure the dish reaches a safe internal temperature.
3. Reheat only the portion you plan to eat, and refrigerate or freeze any leftovers promptly.

When reheating, check for any signs of spoilage, such as off odors or slimy texture, before consuming.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

Encountering problems while preparing Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice can be frustrating, but most issues can be easily resolved. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Undercooked or overcooked beans: Check the cooking time and temperature (180°C / 350°F). Adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve tender beans.
• Too salty or bland flavor: Adjust the amount of seasoning (e.g., 5 g / 1 teaspoon of salt) to taste. Add more spices or herbs if needed.
• Rice is mushy or undercooked: Check the rice-to-liquid ratio (240 g / 1 cup of uncooked rice to 480 ml / 2 cups of liquid). Adjust the cooking time and heat (160°C / 325°F) as needed.
• Lack of flavor depth: Add more aromatics like onions (120 g / 1/2 cup), garlic (6 g / 1 clove), or bell peppers (120 g / 1/2 cup) to enhance the flavor profile.
• Beans are not creamy: Add a little more liquid (60 ml / 1/4 cup) or reduce the heat (150°C / 300°F) to prevent the beans from becoming too dry.

By addressing these common issues, the Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice dish can be perfected, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information for Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

This comforting dish packs a nutritional punch! Each serving provides approximately 350 calories, 12 grams of protein, and 60 grams of carbohydrates. The recipe is also a good source of fiber, thanks to the red beans, which contribute to digestive health and satiety.

Highlights:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 12 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 60 grams per serving
• Fiber: 15 grams per serving

This recipe is Gluten-Free (GF) and Dairy-Free (DF), making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Key Takeaways from Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice Recipe

This recipe summary highlights the main learnings from Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice, a classic dish with a rich flavor profile. The key takeaways include using high-quality ingredients, such as 450g / 2 cups of dried red kidney beans, 240g / 1 cup of uncooked white rice, and 115g / 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese.

• Soaking the dried red kidney beans overnight and then cooking them in a flavorful broth at 180°C / 350°F for about 1 hour, or until tender.
• Cooking the white rice according to package instructions, typically using a 475ml / 2 cup water ratio and heating to 100°C / 212°F.
• Combining the cooked red beans and rice with sauteed onions and garlic for added depth of flavor.
• Adding smoked paprika to give the dish a distinct, smoky taste.

By following these key takeaways, the resulting Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice dish will be a delicious, satisfying meal with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

A Taste of Home

This Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a memory. I remember the first time I tasted it, sitting at a booth in a bustling Cheddar’s restaurant. The aroma of smoky spices and the rich, creamy beans were instantly comforting. I knew I had to recreate that experience at home.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to get it just right. The key is using good quality smoked ham and letting the beans simmer low and slow, allowing their flavors to meld and deepen.

Tips from the Kitchen

1. Don’t rush the simmering process. The longer the beans cook, the more flavorful they become.
2. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick if you like it spicy.
3. Serve the red beans and rice with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra touch of flavor.

Enjoy Your Delicious Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice

With this authentic Cheddar’s Red Beans and Rice recipe, you’re just a few steps away from a comforting, flavorful meal. We hope you’ve enjoyed the process of cooking this classic dish, and we’re confident you’ll love the results.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own – add your favorite spices, try different types of cheese, or serve it with some crispy bacon. The possibilities are endless!

We’d love to hear about your experiences with this recipe. Share your thoughts, variations, and photos with us, and get inspired by other readers’ creations.