Transform your backyard into a vibrant celebration site by indulging in these mouth-watering Mardi Gras recipes. As the festive spirit of Bourbon St. and Carnival comes alive, let the feasting and merriment begin! This special day is all about embracing the bold flavors of Cajun cooking and New Orleans’ signature cuisine.
From tantalizing appetizers to decadent desserts, this curated list of Mardi Gras recipes is a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the Big Easy with every delicious bite.
Mardi Gras Salad
Get ready to celebrate with a fruit salad that’s truly the life of the party! This colorful concoction combines fresh fruit with a deliciously boozy twist – and we’re not talking about just adding a splash of juice. No, this fruit salad is soaked in a rich rum sauce infused with two types of rum, honey, lime juice, and orange juice. The result is a flavor profile that’s equal parts citrusy, floral, and sweet.
But don’t worry if you or your partygoers prefer to avoid the hard stuff – simply omit the rum and this fruit salad remains an amazing treat for all ages.
Mardi Gras King Cake
The quintessential Mardi Gras indulgence is undoubtedly the traditional King Cake. This sweet, buttery brioche is packed with cinnamon and smothered in a rich icing, evoking the essence of a decadent cinnamon roll. However, unlike its spiralized counterpart, the King Cake takes on a more regal appearance, braided to represent the Three Wise Men’s journey to Bethlehem. The icing’s crowning glory? A sprinkle of gold, green, and purple hues – an unmistakable nod to Mardi Gras’ iconic colors.
As a beloved treat, this cakey delight is devoured throughout the carnival season. And now, with a little culinary know-how, you can bring this festive tradition into your own kitchen.
Magnolia Bar and Grill Crawfish Etouffee
While the South may affectionately refer to crawfish as ‘mudbugs’, this succulent dish elevates them to fine dining status. The star of the show is undoubtedly the rich and flavorful etouffee, which translates to ‘smothered’ in French. This delightful creation involves pouring a savory soup or stew over a bed of rice, effectively smothering it in its bold flavors.
Our crawfish version boasts a harmonious balance of buttery, spicy, and tangy notes, with the tender tails adding a touch of sweetness and depth. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful synergy of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.
Cajun Dirty Rice
From unassuming origins, dirty rice has evolved into a beloved national staple. Its widespread popularity is undeniable, with many having encountered some variation of the dish at least once in their lives. If you’re yet to experience its unique charm, now’s the perfect opportunity to give it a try!
This particular rendition boasts simplicity and indulgent flavor, achieved by cooking the rice in rich broth and then searing it with savory sausage, peppers, onions, celery, and an array of pungent spices.
Homemade Beignets for Mardi Gras
These indulgent treats gained widespread popularity at Cafe du Monde, and their fame was further solidified through Disney’s portrayal. Characterized by their light, airy texture and sweet, sugary flavor, these beignets are a heavenly delight to savor. When freshly fried, they’re often smothered in a generous dusting of powdered sugar. This recipe offers a unique twist on the classic, utilizing festive almond icing instead.
The result is an unconventional yet utterly justifiable indulgence that’s worth every calorie.
Mardi Gras Muffuletta
Mardi Gras celebrations are known for their rich cultural heritage, but this Italian sandwich is an unexpected twist on traditional fare. Despite its French-Creole influences being the norm, this savory delight brings a welcome respite from the revelry of the night ahead. The combination of spicy meats, rich cheese, and salty olive tapenade creates a charcuterie board-inspired masterpiece that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites – and mitigate any potential hangover symptoms.
Shrimp Boulettes
While small in size, these shrimp meatballs deliver a robust flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Their convenience factor is equally impressive, making them an ideal choice for gatherings and get-togethers. The combination of salty, spicy, and satisfying crunch will have everyone coming back for more – and you can bet they’ll be asking for the recipe!
Easy Cajun Butter Shrimp
Savoring a quick and satisfying dinner has never been easier. In just 10 minutes, you can have succulent shrimp that’s bursting with flavor – a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory notes. What’s more, this indulgent-tasting dish is surprisingly healthy, thanks to the judicious use of butter. Serve it alongside a hearty serving of rice and steaming veggies for a well-rounded meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
Mardi Gras Pasta
Indulge in the harmonious blend of Cajun zest and Italian luxury with this delectable pasta dish. Its bold flavors, a perfect balance of spicy and creamy, are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Be sure to grab a serving before it vanishes, as its popularity is likely to be meteoric – you won’t want to miss out on this culinary treat!
Hot Chicken and Shrimp Jambalaya Dip
Say goodbye to bland buffalo dips and hello to a flavorful explosion! This Cajun-inspired masterpiece combines chicken, succulent shrimp, and spicy andouille sausage for a taste bud experience that’s anything but ordinary. And let’s not forget about the cheese – we’re talking ridiculously gooey and indulgent goodness. Your guests will be begging for more, so don’t be surprised if you end up doubling (or tripling) the recipe to keep them satisfied!
Paczki (Polish Donuts)
Indulge in the sweet and crispy delight that is Paczki. This delectable treat boasts an enriched dough fried to perfection and generously dusted with powdered sugar. While it may seem reminiscent of beignets, Paczki takes things to the next level by allowing you to choose from a variety of scrumptious fillings – think custard, curd, jam, chocolate, or even peanut butter or Nutella!
Typically associated with Mardi Gras celebrations, I firmly believe that Paczki are just as delicious and deserving of a spot on your year-round sweet treat rotation.
New Orleans Shrimp Po’Boy
A Po’Boy sandwich is a culinary delight that can’t be beat. Essentially, it’s a sub sandwich filled with local Louisiana flavors, but what sets it apart is the special Po’Boy bread roll. Soft and chewy, similar to French bread, these rolls are perfectly suited for carrying an abundance of crispy, mouthwatering ingredients. In this rendition, the star of the show is Cajun-seasoned fried shrimp, accompanied by fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a dollop of tangy tartar sauce.
Feel free to customize your toppings to suit your taste buds!
Shrimp Creole
While Creole cuisine may be well-known for its rich and flavorful dishes, it’s actually quite closely related to another beloved culinary style – Etouffee. In fact, one could think of Creole as the lighter, chunkier, and spicier cousin of Etouffee. While Etouffee is known for its hearty, saucy consistency, Creole takes a slightly different approach, offering a more rustic, textured experience that still packs all the bold Cajun flavors you love.
When served over a bed of fluffy rice, Creole truly comes alive, providing a delightful and satisfying culinary experience.
Sausage and Creamy Cajun Orzo Skillet
This mouthwatering sausage and orzo dinner is a true showstopper, requiring only 30 minutes from start to finish. What’s more, it’s an absolute delight to prepare, as everything can be cooked in one pot right on your kitchen table. As you’d expect, this dish is both scrumptious and satisfying, boasting a rich, creamy texture that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, feel free to get creative by adding your favorite veggies for an added nutritional boost.
With its bold flavors and hearty portions, it’s no wonder everyone will be clamoring for seconds!
Glazed New Orleans BBQ Shrimp and Sausage Kabobs
Indulge in the irresistible flavor combination of succulent shrimp and savory andouille sausage – a match made in culinary heaven! Once you take a bite, these mouthwatering morsels will become your top choice for social gatherings, from casual potlucks to backyard BBQs. The secret lies in the perfectly pan-seared meat, smothered in a rich glaze that’s equal parts smoky, spicy, and garlicky. For an added touch of sweetness, simply drizzle with honey and get ready to delight your taste buds.
Shrimp and Grits
The quintessential Southern dish, shrimp and grits, embodies comfort food at its finest. This rendition boasts warm, creamy grits, succulent Cajun-seasoned shrimp, and spicy Andouille sausage, all smothered in a velvety white wine gravy that’s simply divine.
Nouveau New Orleans Red Beans and Rice
In the vibrant city of New Orleans, red beans and rice is a beloved classic. This Caribbean-inspired variation takes the traditional recipe to new heights, with its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The dish starts strong with kidney beans and crispy bacon, then adds depth with ground meat, sautéed bell pepper, and an array of spices. But the true showstopper is the sweet and tangy pineapple salsa that crowns the dish.
With each spoonful, the senses come alive, making every bite a thrilling culinary adventure.
Crawfish Beignets with Cajun Dipping Sauce
Experience the revolutionary twist on the iconic NOLA classic – a flavor profile that will simultaneously blow your mind and tantalize your taste buds. While they may not resemble the soft, sweet beignets you’re familiar with, these innovative creations are indeed fried to a crispy perfection and bursting with savory goodness.
Drawing inspiration from seafood fritters, these babies are a masterclass in textures and flavors, begging to be paired with a zesty, spicy, and creamy sauce that will elevate your senses.
Passion Fruit Hurricane
As the forecast calls for a thrilling adventure, grab hold and get ready to ride the wave of flavors in this sensational, fruity, and spirited cocktail. Inspired by the vibrant energy of Bourbon Street during Mardi Gras, this tropical concoction will transport your taste buds to a state of pure bliss. The harmonious blend of passion fruit, lime, grenadine, orange, and rum will leave you yearning for another sip, and then another, and perhaps even one more after that.
Just be cautious not to get swept away by the storm’s fury, or you might find yourself feeling a bit weathered!
Louisiana Crawfish Boil
A crawfish boil is more than just a meal – it’s an unforgettable experience shared with friends. While there are various ways to execute this culinary celebration, some essential elements remain non-negotiable. You’ll need a generous supply of crustaceans, such as crawfish or shrimp, accompanied by potatoes, corn, and an assortment of vegetables. Don’t forget to include an array of seasonings to elevate the flavors.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies, ensuring they can withstand the boiling process. Adding andouille sausage for a smoky twist is also highly recommended. If you’re unable to source crawfish, shrimp make a suitable substitute.
Maque Choux
A staple in Cajun cuisine, Maque Choux is a nutritious side dish that shines with its medley of colorful vegetables. While corn takes center stage, the accompanying red and green bell peppers, onion, garlic, and cream elevate this dish to new heights. The result is a fresh and flavorful culinary delight that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Muffuletta Deviled Eggs
Imagine a culinary marriage between two beloved classics – muffuletta and deviled eggs. This innovative recipe brings together the best of both worlds, elevating the humble deviled egg to new heights. The process is straightforward: simply enhance the traditional yolk mixture with an array of flavors. In this case, we’re talking spicy Italian cold cuts, melted provolone cheese, and a tangy kick from olive tapenade.
Add to that the usual suspects – mayonnaise, mustard, and a pinch of seasonings – and you have a creamy, tangy, spicy, and indulgent treat that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Oysters Rockefeller
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Oysters Rockefeller, a dish that lives up to its namesake’s reputation for opulence. Despite its high-end appearance, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward and requires minimal effort. Simply combine oysters with sautéed greens, alliums, Pernod, parmesan, lemon juice, and hot sauce, then finish it off in the oven until the top is golden brown. The result is a harmonious balance of savory and tangy flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Cajun Black-Eyed Peas
Cajun black-eyed peas are deeply rooted in tradition, much like the festive atmosphere of Mardi Gras. Each family has its own special take on this beloved dish, but this recipe stands out for its simplicity and irresistible flavor. With a mere handful of ingredients – including tender peas, crispy bacon, savory broth, and a pinch of seasonings – you can create a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family. The best part?
This one-pot wonder can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal solution for a quick yet satisfying dinner. I’m confident that this recipe will become a staple in your household, long after the Mardi Gras celebrations have come and gone.
King Cake Ice Cream
When your party’s getting too wild, there’s no better way to chill out than with a scoop (or two) of this indulgent ice cream. To make it, start by whipping up a base of cinnamon-infused cream cheese goodness. Next, add a touch of citrusy lemon zest to balance out the richness. But here’s where things get really crazy – throw in big chunks of King Cake for an explosion of flavors and textures. Trust us, your party (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Mardi Gras Jello Shots
Elevate your drinking experience with these vibrant, layered treats that go far beyond the classic college-era Jello shots. The combination of vodka, Limoncello, and Chambord creates a boozy trifecta, while lemon and lime juices expertly balance out the flavors. With each delicious layer, you’ll be treated to a symphony of tastes and textures that’s sure to keep the good times rolling.
King Cake Oreo Balls
Indulge in the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras with these decadent treats that are sure to impress your party guests. Rich and chocolatey, these indulgent bites boast a generous helping of Oreo goodness within. The crowning glory? A lavish coating of white chocolate and a riotous medley of Mardi Gras-colored sprinkles that evoke the festive atmosphere of the Big Easy.
And if you’re anything like me, they’ll quickly become one of your top picks among Mardi Gras desserts – perhaps even the most beloved!
Mardi Gras Moon Pie Bars
Imagine sinking your teeth into a treat that’s reminiscent of warm summer nights spent roasting marshmallows over a campfire. The Moon Pie dessert bar is a masterful blend of textures and flavors, combining the comforting familiarity of graham crackers, the fluffy sweetness of marshmallows, and the richness of chocolate. But what sets it apart from its iconic namesake is its unique texture, reminiscent of a chewy chocolate chip cookie, and its unmistakable s’mores-inspired taste.
In short, this indulgent treat is a childhood dream come true, distilled into one irresistible bite.
Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
Indulge in the vibrant essence of the French Quarter with this mouthwatering jambalaya recipe. The dish is elevated by the combination of succulent dark meat chicken, smoky andouille sausage, and a trifecta of sautéed aromatics – celery, onion, and green pepper. As the flavors meld together, the result is a harmonious balance of rich, savory notes from the protein and the pungency of the sausage.
Nourishing rice provides a comforting base, while fire-roasted tomatoes add a tangy contrast to the dish’s overall smoky character. With an abundance of seasoning and a medley of flavors, this jambalaya is sure to transport your taste buds to the charming streets of New Orleans.
Easy Louisiana Biscuit Beignets
Say goodbye to waiting for dough to prove if you’re not a fan of the process. Instead, try this recipe that uses canned biscuits – yes, you read that right! Layered biscuits from a can are just as delicious and way more convenient than making your own homemade dough. The best part? These bite-sized beignets are incredibly easy to make because they’re small enough to fry properly in no time.
Simply top them with powdered sugar as soon as they come out of the fryer, serve warm, and watch them vanish before your eyes.
