Shrimp and Grits

Mardi Gras Foods: 18 Cajun and Creole recipes for Fat Tuesday

Milk Punch

This creamy (and calcium-packed!) New Orleans drink can be made many different ways — try a kid-friendly milkshake or an adults-only bourbon punch.
Make milk punch

Red Beans and Rice

This traditional New Orleans meal is affordable and flavorful — no wonder it’'s a Creole classic!
Make red beans and rice

Shrimp and Grits

Think grits are just for breakfast? Think again! Make this savory, easy-to-make dish for a classic New Orleans supper.
Make shrimp & grits 

Crushed Purple Potatoes

The rich purple color makes these potatoes the perfect side for a Mardi Gras-themed dinner.
Make crushed purple potatoes

Kale Chips

Don’t forget the green! These kale chips are so crispy and delicious, kids will forget they’'re packed with nutrients.
Make kale chips

Shrimp and Crab Quesadillas

Louisiana is shrimpin'’ country. Give your little ones a taste of fresh seafood with these kid-friendly shrimp and crab quesadillas.
Make shrimp and crab quesadillas

Jambalaya

This spicy Jambalaya recipe may be from California, but the Cajun flavor will transport your taste buds to Bayou country.
Make jambalaya

Gold Chocolate Truffles

Add some sparkle to your Mardi Gras bash with these golden chocolate truffles — a sweet reminder of the golden doubloons thrown at parades.
Make gold chocolate truffles

Moon Pies

It’s a little-known fact that packaged Moon Pies are one of the most coveted items thrown at Mardi Gras parades. Making your own from scratch is super easy, and the result is totally scrumptious.
Make moon pies

Caramel Bourbon Peach Hand Pies

If you can'’t make it all the way to Bourbon Street, try these yummy peach hand pies flavored with bourbon and caramel. They'’re a homemade version of the Hubig’s pies that New Orleanians have enjoyed for generations.
Make caramel bourbon peach hand pies

King Cake

You can'’t have a Mardi Gras celebration without King Cake. This colorful, cinnamon-laced sweet comes with a special trinket, usually a tiny baby, hidden inside. As tradition mandates, whoever gets it has to throw next year’'s party!
Make King Cake

Tropical Hurricane

Originally named after the type of glass it was served in, this New Orleans favorite can be made sans alcohol for a hurricane of flavor that'’s perfect for kids.
Make tropical hurricane

Pecan Pralines

Sweeten any celebration with these delicious French-inspired confections made from brown sugar, butter and pecans.
Make pecan pralines

Deep Fried Mini Mars Bars

Fat Tuesday only comes around once a year — go ahead and indulge in some deep-fried chocolate.
Make deep fried Mini Mars Bars

Bananas Foster Crepes

Did you know bananas foster originated in New Orleans? We can’t think of a better way to celebrate Fat Tuesday and satisfy your sweet tooth than with this crepe of perfection.
Make bananas foster crepes

Red Beans and Rice Veggie Burger

This burger puts a spicy twist on one classic Fat Tuesday fare: red beans and rice. Whip up these sandwiches to celebrate Mardi Gras with a flavorful kick.
Make red beans and rice veggie burger

Muffuletta Sandwich

Celebrate Mardi Gras by sinking your teeth into this classic New Orleans sandwich! Layered with meat, cheese, and a spicy spread, it’s sure to send your taste buds a-partying!
Make a muffuletta sandwich

Homemade Bite-size Beignets

Another classic Café du Monde’ food, these powdered sugar-sprinkled beignets are a sweet way to eat like you’re at Mardi Gras! Serve them right out of the oven and they'll melt in your mouth. We promise.
Make homemade bite-size beignets