New Orleans Red Beans & Rice with Sausage

1 (12 oz) box red beans and rice (recommended: Zatarain's)
1 (15 oz) can red beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 pound smoked sausage (recommended: Hillshire Farm)
fresh ground black pepper or red pepper flakes, to taste

Mix beans and rice according to package directions, adding beans prior to boil. While beans and rice are simmer, slice sausage lengthwise in quarters and into 1/4 inch thick cubes; brown over high heat until caramelized, approximately 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Allow sausage to drain on paper towel while beans and rice finish cooking. Serve beans and rice garnished with sausage and pepper to taste. Serves 6 as a main dish.