Heart-Healthy Copycat Popeyes Red Beans and Rice

Recreate the comforting flavors of a beloved Southern classic with this 'Heart-Healthy Copycat Popeyes Red Beans and Rice' recipe—perfect for those looking to enjoy indulgence without the guilt. This wholesome spin on a fast-food favorite features fiber-rich red kidney beans simmered in unsalted vegetable broth with aromatic smoked paprika, cumin, and a touch of garlic for a smoky, savory depth. Paired with nutty brown rice, this dish offers a satisfying balance of hearty textures and bold flavors while remaining low in sodium and packed with nutrients. Quick to prepare in just 45 minutes, it's an ideal option for weeknight dinners or meal prep, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. Whether you’re seeking a plant-based protein boost or a heart-smart comfort meal, this recipe is a healthy twist on a Southern classic you’ll love.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 15-ounce cans canned low-sodium red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups unsalted vegetable broth
• 1 whole bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 3 cups cooked brown rice
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• 0 black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and celery is softened.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the drained and rinsed red kidney beans to the pot, stirring well to combine with the vegetables.

Step 5

Pour in the unsalted vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf, smoked paprika, and ground cumin.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, lightly mash some of the beans with a wooden spoon to create a slightly creamy texture while keeping the rest intact.

Step 8

Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf.

Step 9

Season with black pepper to taste.

Step 10

Serve the red beans over beds of cooked brown rice, garnished with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1366.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	990.4

Total Fat 21.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 3.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.5g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1358.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 180.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.4g	0%
Total Sugars 10.6g
Protein 22.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 182.8mg	0%
Iron 8.0mg	0%
Potassium 1402.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.0%

Protein: 9.0%

Carbs: 72.0%