Savor the smoky, soulful flavors of this Whole30 Copycat Popeyes Red Beans and Rice recipe—a wholesome, healthier twist on the beloved fast-food classic. This dish swaps traditional rice for low-carb cauliflower rice and uses pantry staples like smoked paprika, liquid smoke, and bone broth to recreate the rich, creamy texture of the original without added dairy or artificial ingredients. Perfectly seasoned with hints of garlic, onion, and thyme, the red beans are gently simmered and mashed to achieve the perfect consistency. Ready in under an hour, this delicious Whole30-friendly recipe is a must-try for anyone craving comfort food that aligns with clean eating goals. Whether you’re meal prepping or enjoying a quick dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
Add the drained kidney beans to the pot and pour in the bone broth or chicken stock. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low and let the beans gently simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to partially mash some of the beans to thicken the mixture, but leave some beans whole for texture.
Add the liquid smoke, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir to combine well.
Continue to cook over low heat for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the beans resemble a thick, creamy texture.
While the beans are simmering, prepare the cauliflower rice according to package instructions or cook fresh cauliflower rice in a pan with a bit of olive oil until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Serve the beans over a bed of warm cauliflower rice and enjoy your Whole30 Copycat Popeyes Red Beans and Rice!
Calories |
912 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 33.8 g | 43% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3399 mg | 148% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 113.2 g | 41% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 35.2 g | 126% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.1 g | ||
| Protein | 55.9 g | 112% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 330 mg | 25% | |
| Iron | 12.9 mg | 72% | |
| Potassium | 3502 mg | 75% | |
*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.