After a little prep and the quick help of Success® White Rice, you can have this Cajun red beans and rice dish slowly cooking in your crock pot, ready for a weeknight dinner for these busy back-to-school days.
Every once in a while, I like to try a new dish that is traditional to our new home state of Mississippi. When we first moved here, I made Jambalaya and Mississippi Mud Cake. I've conquered Chicken 'n Dumplings and even took a southern cooking class. Today, I'm telling you that I dove into the world of red beans and rice. It's not my favorite dish on this earth, but I enjoy that it's an inexpensive one, easy to whip up, and I always love a mound of rice on my plate!
You do need to soak the beans overnight, then quickly boil them for about 10 minutes in the morning before tossing them in the slow cooker. But, it then cooks all day while you're at work or running your errands. Then, the rice comes together very quickly, just a 10-minute boil on the stovetop or microwave, when using Success White Rice. Shaving 15 more minutes from getting dinner to the table to your hungry kids who've been studying hard at school... right? 😉 
I like that no measuring is required when using Success Rice. And if you're not quite ready to serve dinner that quickly, the white rice can sit for up to 30 minutes in hot water, without the heat from the stove before being served, making it foolproof! Do you take any shortcuts when cooking dinners? Some are worth taking, and some may hurt the outcome of your dish. With Success Rice, the prep is very convenient without sacrificing its great taste or quality, making it an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and is gluten free, fat free, cholesterol free and sodium free! 
There are three additional varieties of Success Rice - Success Jasmine Rice, Success Basmati Rice, and Success Whole Grain Brown Rice. Success White Rice and Success Brown Rice come in two different sizes - 14 oz. or 32 oz. 
Until then, take a culinary visit to the Cajun south and try this red beans and rice recipe, using the convenience of both your slow cooker and Success Boil-in-Bag White Rice!
Recipe Card
Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried red kidney beans , rinsed and soaked in water overnight
- 3 celery ribs , chopped
- 1 green bell pepper , seeded and chopped
- 1 red bell pepper , seeded and chopped
- 1 yellow onion , chopped
- 3 garlic cloves , pressed
- 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 13 oz . smoked turkey sausage , thinly sliced (or andouille sausage)
- Cooked white rice
- Garnishes: hot sauce , sliced green onions, diced red onion
Instructions
- Drain the beans and transfer to a medium-sized pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Let boil for at least 10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the celery, bell peppers, yellow onion, garlic cloves, Creole seasoning, bay leaves and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine. Cook on high for 8 hours. When 2 hours are left, add the sausage.
- After the 8 hours of cooking, remove the bay leaves and transfer about 2 cups of the bean mixture into a bowl (avoiding any of the sausage). Mash with a fork. Return mashed bean mixture back to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Let cook on high for another 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare your rice and garnishes. Serve the bean and sausage mixture over the hot rice with optional garnishes.
Katie says
To free up oven space I have made lasagna and baked potatoes in a crockpot .I also use my crockpot to keep mashed potatoes warm for the holidays.
Soliver says
Mmm... What a tasty! And what a big discussion 😀
About recipe - it is very nice and on every table this meal should be once at least. It is enough fast if you do it by Redmond 4502 multicooker or other clever way. Do not you rice cooker - believe my experience!
meredith says
https://twitter.com/mermont84/status/548632602307866625
meredith says
I use canned beans to save time
erica best says
https://twitter.com/purplelover04/status/548562735467102208
erica best says
i pre cook thing that can be done before hand
Amanda Sakovitz says
tweet
https://twitter.com/aes529/status/548500430670823424
Amanda Sakovitz says
I make semi-homemade meals to save time
Carolsue says
I almost always have a pot luck. I supply the meat for the main course, then have everyone else bring dessert and side dishes.
Digicats {at} Sbcglobal {dot} Net
Aurelie Red says
My tweet https://twitter.com/AurelieRed/status/547798880146841602
Aurelie Red says
I use garlic powder and frozen vegetables !
ANGEL JACKLYN says
TWITTERED!! https://twitter.com/kytah00/status/545313735078719488
ANGEL JACKLYN says
I LIKE CONVENIENCE DISHES THAT ARE PRE-PACKAGED & EASY TO PREPARE... WHO DOESN'T? LOL
Janice says
prep ahead and having bought store ready ingredients already
sandra says
I use a lot of frozen prepared foods
Shannon S says
I cook ahead and use success quick rice
steven weber says
I always do all my chopping and prepping the night before.
Lisa Brown says
tweet https://twitter.com/LuLu_Brown24/status/534343360912171009
Lisa Brown says
I prepare as much as I can the day before; get the household to help clean and get the house ready for guests.
marybeth i says
Hi - i plan well in advance. I do some prep work before hand but I also use a mix of fresh and prepared ingredients
Claudia Davis says
https://twitter.com/davisesq212/status/528386230967623680
Claudia Davis says
I prep and chop and freeze some elements on the weekend for recipes during the week.
Anonymous says
I prep and chop and freeze some elements on the weekend for recipes during the week.
Wendy McBride says
I use Rottiserie Chickens in recipes to save time, energy and $ and do most cooking day before if possible. I also use tried and true recipes.
Annette says
Shortcuts I take include using lots of canned goods like broth and tomatoes.
Annette says
https://twitter.com/ThatTuxedoCat/status/528335081840996352
Donna K says
I tweeted: https://twitter.com/donnak4/status/528318341648113664
Susan Climan says
I try to do as much cooking as I can before company arrives so I won't be stuck in the kitchen.
Donna K says
I like to prepare as much as possible the night before.
cynthia Painter says
I try to get as much done ahead of time, including setting the table (or buffet table) and planning food that can be made ahead.
Sarah L says
https://twitter.com/slehan/status/528306466453610498
Sarah L says
Using a slow cooker is a great way to entertain without all the fuss.
Thanks for the contest.
Carmen N says
I do as much of the prep-work in the days ahead as I can. Even better if I can have something all assembled or even cooked and then it just needs heating.
Linda G. says
I try to do as much as I can ahead of time before my guests arrive
thischickwins says
my side dishes are usually store bought, or the sides will be homemade and the meat will be storebought
Tabathia B says
tweet https://twitter.com/ChelleB36/status/528230207157571584
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Tabathia B says
I buy frozen appetizers and let them thaw
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com
Eugenie says
I use quick cooking rice to speed things up!
heather c says
Tweet - https://twitter.com/ilovetoclap/status/528223642191015936
heather c says
My husband tells me to stop trying to make every single thing on the menu, so one shortcut I embrace is buying some pre-made items from the store.
amanda whitley says
i buy a lot of store brand products to keep costs low and once you serve it in out of its packaging guests never know the difference.
RICHARD HICKS says
https://twitter.com/ardy22/status/528210478422425600
RICHARD HICKS says
My go to dish is Hainanese Chicken Rice
Denise W says
I usually hit Costco and Sam for frozen edibles that taste like homemade, and then pop them in the oven right before the fun begins. Works like a charm!
Thomas Murphy says
tweet
https://twitter.com/thomasmurphy40/status/528185249084477440
Thomas Murphy says
I try to get most of it done the night before.
Rosey says
I shared on Twitter https://twitter.com/mail4rosey/status/528178960757436416
Rosey says
My shortcut for entertaining is always the crockpot. It makes dinner a breeze so I can still get in my visit time.
tracey byram says
I make as much as possible ahead of time.
Roxann says
I use some canned food such as beans and also use minute rice for some dishes. It makes it so much easier.
April V. says
We don't entertain a great deal - budgets being what they are these days. However, if I needed to do some short cuts I'd double up on whatever recipes I might use for the evening of entertainment and freeze them ahead of time. This way in getting ready, all I'd need to do would be to re-heat them.
CharityS says
https://twitter.com/ccboobooy/status/528058745528385539
CharityS says
I use frozen vegetables in my soups.
Shakeia Rieux says
I never take any shortcuts when it comes to cooking.I like to make everything from scratch,and get an early start on it
tallcapp says
My shortcut is asking guests to bring part of the dinner.
Nicole Millheim says
If there is a lot of cutting up food involved..I chop the night before so I can focus more on the main dishes
BILL HOFF says
https://twitter.com/billwinsbig/status/528024979456405504
janna johnson says
I cook ahead and freeze food if I can.
tina reynolds says
https://twitter.com/eaglesforjack/status/528003480846213120
tina reynolds says
I prep the day before use frozen veggies
Sonya Morris says
Link to tweet:
https://twitter.com/catholicfanatic/status/528001823945146368
Thank you!
Sonya Morris says
I think every thing I make has been shortened as much as possible! Instead of using fresh or dried items, I resort to using canned. If company is coming over, I start preparing the night before or early in the afternoon.
Lisa Garner says
I Tweeted: https://twitter.com/lisalmg/status/527997803251769345
Lisa Garner says
I like to prepared as much as possible and freeze it ahead of time.
Debbie B says
i posted a tweet here: https://twitter.com/bellows22/status/527996814587215872
Debbie B says
i sometimes buy convenience items to save time like onions and celery already chopped - it saves me a lot of time
Hollie Jahnke says
I don't take shortcuts, I'm crazy about planning ahead.
Joseph MacNamara says
cook early so you can party late!
Lori L. says
I try to make either the main course or a side dish a crockpot dish--that means I can start it cooking that morning and not have to mess with it all day.
Kimberly Snyder says
I prep as much as possible ahead of time and I don't mind asking for help. It makes the gathering a lot more enjoyable when you are not stuck in the kitchen the whole time
Birdiebee says
Tweeted.
https://twitter.com/birdiebee52/status/527981903605817344
Anonymous says
I do a lot prep work the day before so I am not pressed for time when entertaining. I also choose recipes that are not time consuming but very delicious. In addition, I make a lot of freezer meals for my family during the summer months so that when our schedules are crazy, I can just pick a meal from the freezer to either defrost and heat up or pop into the crock pot to slow cook all day.
Ed says
I don't melt caramel cubes anymore; I use caramel sundae topping.
Kimberly Hilbert says
I don't really take Short cuts. I might do-ahead but that isn't a short cut, it's just good planning. I don't often use canned beans, but if I was really short on time I might.
Trudy says
I use pre crushed garlic and chop my veggies ahead of time.
Anthony says
Cashew chicken is our favorite rice dish
Karen Drake says
I use a lot of canned foods as a shortcut.
Megan Filzen says
https://twitter.com/mfilzen7/status/527905871041658881
Megan Filzen says
I was trying to think of something to make for dinner! 🙂
Dorothy Hubbard says
I make the menu as simple and easy as possible around foods that are either premade or easy to assemble and lots of finger foods to save on after cleanup.
Carolyn Daley says
I like to plan ahead and get a lot of the prep work out of the way early. Sometimes I do things in batches so all I have to do is grab the bag out of the fridge or freezer with everything already cut and ready to go to cook.
Michelle Hagewood says
Tweet: https://twitter.com/JustMarriedMom3/status/527874987404058625
boylaneely at hotmail dot com
Michelle Hagewood says
If I have to cook for a lot of people I'll start a day or two before with prep work. Anything that I can get done early and put in the fridge makes the day of the meal much easier!
boylaneely at hotmail dot com
Angela Cisco says
I'll order in, saves me lots of time every time
Mary Gardner says
Tweeted here: https://twitter.com/Tarheelicious/status/527870400038842368
Mary Gardner says
I often use frozen vegetables, especially peas and carrots for shortcuts!
Karen Drake says
I buy foods that require less prep time like pre shredded cheeses.
Melissa says
I plan the meals ahead of time and the family helps out too!
Holly Kennedy says
I like to prep as much as I can the night before.
Betty C says
Tweet - https://twitter.com/willitara/status/527714605452115968
Betty C says
The slow cooker is a lifesaver, especially when I can use it to cook a pot roast or a whole chicken and have leftovers for several meals without spending extra time in the kitchen.
Rebecca Graham says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/rhoneygee/status/527691452449452032
Rebecca Graham says
I will buy precooked food when in a hurry.
Rosanne says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/rosannepm/status/527678072045436928
Rosanne says
I buy things that are ready made or store bought instead of making it all from scratch.
Joseph MacNamara says
parcook everything u can, then finish up right before needed.
Bruce says
Cutting things up ahead of time
ewhatley says
My 2 favorite shortcuts are my freezer (always filled with meat, veggies, bread) and my crockpot (for delicious, no-fuss meals).
saralynns2 says
I like to buy most of my foods and prepare them to a point where I can freeze them for easy prep the day of. Things like veggies, rice, whole freezer meals, etc... makes the day of cooking so much nicer 🙂
rochelle johnson says
Im a big fan of the crock pot... I out in the food the night before and put in the frig. Pull it out in the morning pop it in the cooking part and let it cook all day
Daniel M says
prep and shop early
Michelle H. says
If my recipe calls for chopped onions, I often will chop and freeze the onions a day or two before I need them.
Nicholas Balandiat says
I have one of these crock pots they are FABULOUS
Erica B. says
I'll order some food ahead of time.
richelle bowers says
Ill make meals during the day so at night all I have to do is throw it in the oven
carol clark says
https://twitter.com/Cc76Carol/status/527518591533342720
carol clark says
i do all the prep work ahead and i use frozen foods save time and money and i use instant rice unless im cooking chicken and rice in the oven and then i use milk to make it taste better and that is all i can think of shortcuts
Nancy says
https://mobile.twitter.com/c5519/status/527514682509123584?p=v
Nancy says
I make a lot of recipes that have 5 ingredients or less
Amanda Sakovitz says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/aes529/status/527473226713423872
Amanda Sakovitz says
I use frozen foods a lot for shortcuts
Thomas Gibson says
My only shortcut is to use my neighbor's catering business.
Brittney House says
I pre-prep all my meals to save time.
Ellie W says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/eswright18/status/527263025095376896
Tammy Darling says
I like to use prepared sauces and frozen vegetables.
Ellie W says
When entertaining I serve food and drink in pretty but disposable dishes. That way clean up is quick and easy and I can enjoy myself, too.
Joel says
I love getting as much done the night before!
Victoria Mitchell says
I tweeted:
https://twitter.com/vickyvicdio/status/527255857424531456
Victoria Mitchell says
I leave ingredients like eggs and butter out for the night so they can be ready to use when I'm ready to cook. 🙂
Ceinwyn R says
I wish I knew more shortcuts! I usually make sauces ahead of time and try to chop veggies early too.
Rachael G. says
I prep everything ahead of time, so that I can have more fun entertaining and spend less time in the kitchen.
Barbara Lima says
I like to reuse recipes that I have used in the past that I know work.
Neiddy says
tweeted -https://twitter.com/neiddy_ruiz/status/527110323786899457
Neiddy says
My shortcut is making slow cooker meals
D Johnson says
I try to do as much as possible beforehand, like chopping, marinating, etc., so it's easier to throw things together and not stress too much during.
Sylvie W says
For cooking, I like to make big pots of food. I freeze some and then re-invent it the next week with 1-2 added ingredients that give it a completely different spin.
Lisa V. says
A short cut I might take is to buy precut veggies for soups or stews.
Destiny Holley says
I always need more slowcooker recipes! This looks delicious!
Thanks for doing these giveaways! I tweeted about it.
https://twitter.com/dholleyyyy/status/526895963802054656
Andrea Hatfield says
Tweeted - https://twitter.com/simplyandreah/status/526814599279312896
Andrea Hatfield says
My favorite shortcut is to use my slow cooker. I also like to clean as I go which makes the clean up so much quicker.
jennifer says
If I have tons of veggies to cut up, I do that before company arrives and if dessert can be refridgerated, it is made the night before!
Destiny Holley says
I am guilty of using onion powder when cooking if I don't feel like chopping onions (or the tears that come with it).
Kimberly says
Do all the prep work early! Chopping should always be done the day before because it takes forever.
joe gersch says
my shortcut is to cook in the crockpot
Daniel Mutchler says
I use my younger brothers to help with the chopping of vegetables!
gina says
I use pre made bread products like croissants and biscuits thatt you only need to bake.
kjasus says
https://twitter.com/raggammuffin/status/526354638908710912
kjasus says
i will buy pre-chopped veggies to cut down on prep time
Alona Y says
My favorite short cut, at least what feels like a short cut, is making meals in my slow cooker!
Madeline says
Tweet link: https://twitter.com/shala_darkstone/status/526147809888595969
Madeline says
My biggest shortcut is to use bagged lettuce or spinach when cooking.
s riches says
I like to make the kitchen the place for guests to pitch in and help out.
Kerry says
tweeted: https://twitter.com/KerryBishop/status/525823683663638528
Kerry says
I do as much as I can the day before we entertain so I'm not as stressed on the actual day.
BusyWorkingMama says
I prep ahead of time the nights before.
Terri Moore says
The short cuts I take when I'm going to be entertaining is buying bagged salad mix and shredded cheese (usually I grate it myself). I also like to buy a pie for dessert from the bakery, with ice cream on the side.
Cody Anderson says
I always make meals that can be prepared the night or morning of the event. This makes hosting less stressful.
Kimarie Stebbins says
I def start cooking the night before. Especially dips. They taste better the next day anyways.
Allison Kusel says
I do as much prep work as I can the day before so I don't have as much to do the day of
lauren n says
I try to do all the shopping and prep work the day before.
joni says
I use paper plates and plastic wear whenever I can. Less dishes.
Shannon says
I make lists and prepare as much as I can ahead of time.
Lauren Olivia Wood says
I use partially prepared ingredients for large-batch dishes like entrees and desserts!
Denise L says
tweeted - https://twitter.com/dmarie824/status/524677531606073344
Denise L says
I always prep/cook as much as I can in the week before the event.
Robby Rob says
tweeted - https://twitter.com/robbyrob15/status/524664786374500354
Robby Rob says
lots of prep work and do dishes as I move along. I'd rather be down to 1 pot in the sink at the end than 20
maria cantu says
Do as much prepping the day before the event.
beth shepherd says
I try to do as much prep work I can the day before.
Alyce Poalillo says
I do as much of the prep and cooking ahead as I can. I also make lists and time out all the meals components so I now when to start each one. I get creative on cooking methods as well using the crock pot, the fryer and the toaster over in addition to the stove.
Kathy Pease says
https://twitter.com/klp1965/status/523910434777092097
Kathy Pease says
I like to season and use instant mashed potatoes are a great breading for fish and poultry
Laura J says
I tweeted
https://twitter.com/ilovemybeagle22/status/523867497183723521
Laura J says
Oh I try to get as much done ahead of time as I can, and LOVE to use the slow cooker! I love that I can get the clean up done ahead of time and not have the mess! Always a plus!
Kimberley Meier says
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/MRSMEIER5627/status/523689432352714753
Kimberley Meier says
I try to get all the prep work and set up done the night before.
Gina M says
tweet--https://twitter.com/WildOrchid985/status/523557848278892544
Gina M says
I take shortcuts by doing as much prep in advance as I can.
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 AT gmail DOT com
Becca says
Great food shots!
Susan Chester says
I usually buy a pretty cake or pie for dessert to save time.
smchester at gmail dot com
Alex Bradley says
I love my crock pot and try and use it for everything. Plus my husband and I split all the prep work.
Heather says
I actually don't have any real tips, I just start early enough & make sure I have plenty of time! If there's something I can safely do before hand, like peeling/chopping/marinading, I will do that though!
Anne says
I shared your slow cooker recipe and this Success Rice promotion on Twitter. Here's the link:
https://twitter.com/NotherAnneOther/status/522432388953948160
Anne says
As a from-scratch cook and baker with the luxury of time, I don't use a whole lot of shortcut products, but some that I do use are canned beans, bagged croutons, jarred pasta sauce, and frozen ravioli.
Sharon Harmon says
I always make-ahead the parts of the meal the night before. It really cuts down on time spent on cooking the day of the meal!
Allie says
I use boil in the bag rice when I need to make rice
Sindy Murray says
https://twitter.com/urmariposa/status/522368635109523457
Sindy Murray says
I use my slow cooker, rice cooker, and bread maker a lot. I also try but have failed couple times to make some of the food ahead of time or at least cut vegetables and put them in Tupperware.
Crystal F says
Depending on the occassion you can ask your guests to bring a dish. This way you know that everyone has atleast one thing that they like. Thank you!
Theresa Jenkins says
https://twitter.com/TheresaJenkins/status/522238470278762496
Theresa Jenkins says
shortcuts I take when cooking >>I'm the almost homemade cook...use frozen , canned , boxed when I can to can down on prep or cook time
Michelle Levine says
I do part of my food prep the day before a dinner party.
Janet Woodling says
I cook ahead most of the time. Family meals or entertaining can be prepared or semi prepared days earlier. The freezer is my friend.
Sarah Hirsch says
it depends on the situation, sometimes no shortcuts, sometimes we order in the whole meal
Sue Barney says
I make and prep what I can the night before to make things more organised less hectic .
HilLesha says
I love Southwest Veggie & Rice Casserole. 🙂
mickeyfan says
I do as much ahead of time as possible, and if someone offers to bring something, I surely let them!
Barbara Fox says
I use packaged instant gravy...just like my husband's grandmother did 🙂
Jimmy says
I prepare things that I can make in advance so I don't feel overwhelmed right before the party.
Rosie says
I chop, peel, and have everything ready to go mis en place! I try not to cook ahead, because things aren't quite as fresh and magical.
Barbara M says
Tweet https://twitter.com/JalapenoMama/status/521770786193813504
Barbara M says
I like to buy the frozen onions and mushrooms for a good shortcut in cooking.
No chopping necessary!
thank you
Cathy Truman says
I like to make lists of everything I need and how much time to make everything.
I cook and prep ahead of time.
Adrienne gordon says
i use the microwave a lot.
Anastasia Falling says
Tweeted 🙂 - https://twitter.com/Enter_Now/status/521678216281354240
Anastasia Falling says
I'm a terribly and lazy cook, so my shortcuts are... "Order out" or "Potluck" so everyone else can bring something to help fill out the meal lol 🙂
nickie says
prep everything a day before
Cynthia C says
Tweet
https://twitter.com/clc408/status/521667624753569792
Cynthia C says
I look for recipes that can be prepared in advance so I'm not stressed the day of the event.
Tari Lawson says
When pressed for time, I will use pre-cooked chicken products to get a meal on the table quicker.
g. penrod says
I try to find things that I can fix ahead an I wound tire of.
DeeAnn S says
I love buying the rotisserie chickens from the grocery store. Having part of the meal cooked for me saves lots of time and it's always easy to add a few frozen veggies into the mix. Quick and easy is my motto! 😉 Thanks.
julie hutchinson says
buy pre cut vegetables saves a lot of time
jose benavides says
I cook big amounts and then freeze them to have for later
Leela says
Some things I prepare a day in advance.
Denise S says
My most frequent shortcut is to just order pizza and everybody is happy.
Linda G. says
I try to prepare as much of the food ahead of time.
Kiara says
I try to do as much as possible the day before.
[email protected]
Kristi Sorg says
Try to set up and prepare as much as you can the night before. Refrigerate and heat and serve the day of, its still homemade, just not right that day made.
David Fultner says
I always have frozen left over broth. This save times cooking
David Fultner says
TWEET https://twitter.com/davidfultner/status/521415551831138305
Margaret Smith says
I Tweeted: https://twitter.com/peg42/status/521408653404819456
Margaret Smith says
I look for simple items that can be prepared ahead of time.
Tricia G says
I usually prepare everything the night before.
Cindy Merrill says
Everyone should have a bread machine-you can make dough for bread sticks, rolls or even a braided fruit wreath for special events-saves time and money! I have two, which I use constantly during the holidays.
Elizabeth Drake says
Chicken with bell peppers on brown rice!
Stephanie V. says
prepare, chop and make desserts the day prior - makes the day of more bearable!
tvollowitz at aol dot com
paige chandler says
I use help from the store. Bag lettuce and pre cut veggies
Lisa says
I like to make as much as possible the day before.
Janice Cooper says
https://twitter.com/disneyfan40/status/521114557473763329
Janice Cooper says
I make prepare some dishes a day earlier. I always like to buy certain prepared meals or desserts to save time one cooking.
Cheryl W says
Tweet
https://twitter.com/HeartnSoulmom/status/518935820397342720
Cheryl W says
To save time on cooking, I like to buy some pre-made or pre-prepared items to cut down on time. It is still homemade, just with a little help.
Stephanie Phelps says
I tweeted
https://twitter.com/my4boysand1/status/518568160899776512
Stephanie Phelps says
I cook thinks ahead and refrigerate or freeze and then focus on the other things I can't!
sandra says
I use frozen prepared foods
Deb Anderson says
I try to plan menus with dishes I can make in advance and freeze, then thaw or cook just before serving. Saves time and stress!
Erika says
Love prepping ingredients ahead of time if possible!
chambanachik(at)gmail(dot)com
Erica Best says
https://twitter.com/purplelover04/status/515197997794476033
Erica Best says
i love rice and cheese
Tina M says
https://twitter.com/HappyTina0115/status/514204126792523776
Tina M says
I use oven to cook a lot . save my time.
Debra C says
Do all the prep work the night before.
One Frugal Girl says
Using packaged rice saves a ton of time!
One Frugal Girl says
https://twitter.com/OneFrugalGirl/status/511848440310272000
onefrugalgirl AT gmail DOT com
Elle says
Tweet: https://twitter.com/PrettyHotPink6/status/511598351335170048
Elle says
I like to prepare some things ahead of time or buy things already prepared like already cut/washed veggies or fruit platters.
Kimmy Ripley says
I always use my slow cooker when preparing for a party! It is so simple and easy to use. Just drop the ingredients in and let them cook.
Rebecca says
I try to prepare as much as I can in advance so it doesn't get to crazy when the guests arrive!
April V. says
The only real shortcut I know is a way to peel hard-boiled eggs that is super quick. Otherwise, for parties and such, we're always really casual so our guests join us in the kitchen and help out.
Cheryl says
I prepare any chopping or dicing the day before and anything else I can when entertaining.
Amy @ The Nifty Foodie says
I'll use pre-chopped frozen vegetables when I'm in a hurry to make a dish!
anna pry says
i tweeted https://twitter.com/thepryfamily5/status/510227075790159873 [email protected]
anna pry says
my fave shortcut is buying pre-chopped veggies like onions and peppers
[email protected]
Katherine says
https://twitter.com/mkjmc/status/509749224175464448
Katherine says
My little town market will precut my veggies for me
Lisa Brown says
https://twitter.com/LuLu_Brown24/status/509683542461149184
Lisa Brown says
I do as much prep and cooking a day or so ahead of time; prepare the table if I can; just what ever I need to do to make the day easier.
crystal says
i use store bought pre cut veggies
D Schmidt says
tweeted for a second entry
https://twitter.com/mummytotwoboys1/status/509521907327045632
D Schmidt says
My biggest short cut is using the crock pot and microwave!
Jessica w says
I tweeted too https://twitter.com/jessrwarfield/status/509405831914196992
Jessica w says
I Always use recipes that I have made a few time so there isn't a chance of mistakes
Ashley H says
I'll serve some store bought desserts.
janet green says
i prepare as much as possible before entertainment starts.
Sue V. says
I use pre-packaged foods frequently, but as bases and fillers for more individualized dishes. I like to make it my own, whatever I make.
rachel says
I'm not afraid to make food ahead of time and freeze it!
Jessie C. says
-https://twitter.com/tcarolinep/status/508826615652941824
Jessie C. says
I prepare ingredients ahead and have them frozen for later cooking.
tcarolinep at gmail dot com
sheena little says
I always buy frozen peppers & onions blend, a great beginning for many kinds of recipes and dishes..
Deborah says
I am all about shortcuts - sometimes that is the only way to get dinner on the table. Love this!
Susan Smith says
https://twitter.com/susan1215/status/508439035413422081
Susan Smith says
I try to do as much cooking and setting up the night before so that there is less for me to do the day of the event and I can spend time with my guests.
Rachel Tilly says
Do as much as I can before the guests gets there! Buy boxed salad so I don't gabe to chop...do as much prep as I can ahead of time.
sara says
I do as much prep as I can in the daytime while the kids are at school or occupied. Then when it gets time for dinner I can just pop it together and be done.
Vincent says
tweeted
https://twitter.com/rubylorikeet/status/507680740088115200
Vincent says
Sometimes I use stir-fry meal kits or frozen ones from Trader Joe's....then eat with rice.
Shelley says
I use canned beans,frozen chicken and my crock pot!
Sherri says
I like to do the prep work with my husband the night before and then use the slow cooker to make as many meals as possible.
Dana says
I try to keep a well stocked pantry so I don't need to run out for something when the inspiring recipe catches my eye, and keep plenty of canned tomatoes and stock on hand.
e michelle says
i have never used a slow cooker! i would love to try some new things to save time after work making dinner!
Tonya Atkinson says
I like to purchase pre-made mixes
melissa herrmann says
I like to prep around lunch time or before if possible so that the right before dinner time doesn't get quite so hectic.
Lynn says
I'm a list maker so before I do anything, I plan it all on paper. It really does help me save time; from the grocery list to planning backwards from the time I plan to eat to make sure I haven't forgotten a dish.
barbara n says
Shortcuts I take while cooking are make ahead meals and weekly meal planning and meal prep!
Rebecca says
I try to prep as much the night before and lay out of the serving dishes on the table as well so that there is a spot for everything (and I don't forget to put something out last minute) when it comes time to serve!
Rosie says
My shortcuts aren't creative, but I do try to plan ahead, and make ahead as many things as I can. Also, for anything that is to be done that day, I try to have mis en place (sp). Takes much of the stress off trying to pull off having things from scratch, but I feel so much more pride in the results and that it is healthy, too.
Miss @ Miss in the KItchen says
It's been so long since I've made red beans and rice. My husband loves it and I will have to try yours soon!
Sarah VM says
I always try to prep things ahead of time. i chop all my ingredients so they will be ready to go when I start cooking.
Lori @ RecipeGirl says
This is my kind of dinner - so awesome!!
Dorothy @ Crazy for Crust says
This sounds amazing! I love red beans and rice. Pinned!
Nicole says
This looks super tasty! I like to use my slow cooker as a shortcut while entertaining.
Cookin Canuck says
I've learned to choose recipes that can mostly be made ahead so that I can spend time with my guests rather than slaving in the kitchen. These beans and rice look fantastic!
Susan Tuma says
Prep as much as I can the night or hours before the gathering!
Stephanie says
i use store brands
Angie Jerde says
I try to write out lists, get all the shopping done a few days prior and do as much prep as I can before hand. Do whatever I can for it to be as less stressful possible and be able to enjoy it myself!
Alicia J. says
I try to make things ahead of time, and use some pre-made products.
Sharon O. says
Tweet: https://twitter.com/sharonjo2/status/507172587340718080
Sharon O. says
I sometimes buy those salads in a bag to save time. So easy--and don't we all love that!
Thank you
Kristen says
I try to do as much beforehand as possible and think of foods that I can make before and not have to reheat!
Liz @ The Lemon Bowl says
Ok this needs to be added to our meal plan asap!! My boys would go crazy for this!!
Toni | BoulderLocavore says
Love a good spicy dish but love a quick to make one best! Perfect for crazy school nights!
Melanie @ Carmel Moments says
Looks fab! Hubby loves red beans. Hoping the kids will love it too.
Happy Wednesday!
Katie says
I tweeted! https://twitter.com/katiemur80/status/507144927218630658
Katie says
I plan ahead and do as much as I can the days leading up to the big day.
Cheryl S says
I use store-bought broths. No time to make homemade!
Lise says
Involving your children with helping prep food or setting the table.
Using my crockpot to slow cook meats!
Nicole S. says
I try to prep as much as I can ahead of time!
Christina says
When entertaining I like to use high quality prepared foods to mix in with freshly cooked.
ColleenB. says
I get all my prep work done ahead of time and getting all my bowls, dishes, etc all out as well and setting the table the day nefore.
If possible I will make, freeze items ahead of time
Vaishali says
prep everything a day before
Brownie says
I use canned chicken broth and prep as much as I can early!
Meredith says
I do as much advance prep as possible, and I always set out all of my serving dishes and utensils with post-it labels to note what food goes where.
heather says
To save time when entertaining I buy some of the food already prepared and I use a lot of paper products to help with clean up.
Natalie says
I tweeted under @yarbr012: https://twitter.com/yarbr012/status/468179174369144832
Natalie says
I prechop items that need to be chopped the night before. It saves so much time!
Jessica To says
I'll get something already made like the dessert or appetizer to save time!
Ashley P says
I like to use Crescent rolls to make easy appetizer dishes when I'm having company.
CR Williams says
Tweeted https://twitter.com/AdorableSweetp1/status/506949975666733056
CR Williams says
I don't usually take any shortcuts, I usually plan ahead.
Heather Taylor says
I try to make things that freeze easily and have those done ahead of time and for some recipes, like pies for holidays, if I am the one entertaining I will cut corners and buy a store bought crust or pick parts of the recipe that won't suffer if they are store bought versus homemade.
Mami2jcn says
tweet--https://twitter.com/mami2jcn/status/506938059363852289
Mami2jcn says
My biggest shortcut is buying frozen pies at Thanksgiving. I think they're just as good as the pies made from scratch, but a lot less work!
Robin says
I do a lot in advance but realistically, there will be cooking to do when guests arrive so I just try to make the kitchen welcoming enough that friends gather as we finish preparations!
Elena says
https://twitter.com/ElenaIstomina/status/506921322153115648
Elena says
I use canned beans and tomatoes to save time when cooking
Nicole says
I Tweeted here: https://twitter.com/lil_lady_dz/status/506909108369252352
Nicole says
The shortcuts I take when cooking or entertaining, is always prepping early. Seasoning and making the food early, then getting décor in order, all a day before.
Michelle @My California Kitchen says
I try to prep a lot ahead of time. I also freeze staples like shredded chicken for use later on!
leslie says
I love Success Rice. I use it several times a week...WHAT A TIME SAVER!!!!!
I swear..if I see the words..."Red Beans and Rice", I can't help but think of Sir Mix a Lot, "Baby Got Back"..LOL I have issues!
Bianca @ Sweet Dreaming says
prepping ahead! I also love when guests contribute their own dishes!
Anna @ Crunchy Creamy Sweet says
My slow cooker is my shortcut. Love throwing everything together and setting it to cook!
Amy C. says
I tweeted!
https://twitter.com/acools/status/506877508713578496
Amy C. says
I take shortcuts with some store-bought ingredients. I make homemade gravy for a biscuits & gravy dish, but just buy the Pillsbury Biscuits. It takes a bit of stress away from meal-time preparation.
Kelly D says
tweet
https://twitter.com/kellysaver/status/506876562298245120
Gerry @ Foodness Gracious says
I like to try and prep as much as I can beforehand and make cooking less stressful 🙂
Kelly D says
I get the pasta sauce cooking early in the day so it will almost be ready when the kids are home, or I use the rice cooker so the rice is done sooner.
Laura says
I agree. I try to do as much of my prep work before time. Using the crock pot can be a huge help, too!
Lily Sheng says
Here is my tweet: https://twitter.com/pic_links/status/506859172374147072
Thanks for the giveaway!
Lily Sheng says
I try to use semi-homemade recipes. For example I made a Pudding Poke Brownies dessert a month ago for a work birthday celebration. I made the pudding from scratch but used a brownie mix for the bottom layer, it saved a lot of time and everybody loved the creation!
Kayle (The Cooking Actress) says
Hmmmm I don't take many shortcuts! I suppose the biggest one is using storebought chicken broth-i use it all the time in almost everything!
Kelster says
I try to do as much as possible the day before. Slow cooker comes in handy too.
Sandy Headtke says
Do all the prep work that you can earlier in the day. Give guest a chore, it makes them feel they have a part in it.
Sandy Headtke says
https://mobile.twitter.com/SandyHeadtke/status/506840610716659712
Shaina says
I try to do as much cooking and setting up the night before so that there is less to do the day of and I can spend time with my guests as much as possible.
Tamara Byrd says
I too use the crockpot a great deal and prepare as many dishes as I can the day ahead of time so I can spend more quality time with my family and friends.
My Tweet: https://twitter.com/_Tinkerbell58_/status/543903479077818369