Begin by bringing 1.5 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Once boiling, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and then add 1 cup of Uncle Ben’s Converted White Rice. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. After cooking, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

In a large saucepan, combine two cans of red beans (along with their juice), 1.5 cups of water, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke. If you want, add a tablespoon of bacon fat for extra flavor. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Once the bean mixture is simmering, use a potato masher to gently mash the beans. Aim to leave some whole beans for texture while creating a creamy base.

Reduce the heat slightly and allow the mashed bean mixture to cook for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently. You'll know it’s ready when it reaches a slightly thickened, creamy consistency.

To serve your Copycat Popeye's Red Beans and Rice, spoon the fluffy rice onto plates and generously top it with the creamy red bean mixture. For an extra touch of flavor and color, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions.