47 Mardi Gras Food Ideas to Keep the Party Going in 2025
One of the best things about Fat Tuesday in New Orleans is Mardi Gras food. A veritable mix of Creole and Cajun fare, New Orleans food is one of the main attractions of the event. If you’re the party host this year, here are some delectable Mardi Gras food ideas you can whip up for this festive occasion.
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- Traditional Mardi Gras Food Ideas
- Easy Mardi Gras Food Ideas
- Mardi Gras Party Food Appetizers
- Delicious Mardi Gras Desserts
- Mardi Gras Food FAQs
Traditional Mardi Gras Food Ideas
1. Shrimp Creole
Add this memorable dish to your Mardi Gras food menu for a flavor that truly packs a punch. It comes together in under an hour — 45 minutes to be exact — and it uses ingredients you already have in your pantry.
Rice and diced tomatoes make up the base of the dish, while red pepper, parsley, bay leaf, celery, onion and bell peppers add flavor and spice. For those looking to dive deeper into local flavors, consider exploring cooking classes in New Orleans to learn more about how to prepare authentic Mardi Gras food. If you can’t get to there, consider joining cooking classes in Atlanta or cooking classes in Tampa to perfect your technique.
2. New Orleans Red Beans and Rice
When it comes to Cajun cuisine, it doesn’t get more comforting than red beans and rice. While every cook has their own twist, New Orleans-style red beans and rice is an incredibly simple food for Mardi Gras and a New Orleans birthday dinner staple.
Many cooks enhance their version with smoky Andouille sausage, though some prefer ham hocks, bacon or pickled pork.
3. Maque Choux
A Southern cook’s Mardi Gras menu often features a vibrant array of vegetable dishes like maque choux. This comforting sauté of corn, peppers and onions is enriched with heavy cream and finished with a sprinkle of crispy bacon.
The origins of maque choux can be traced back to the interactions between the indigenous people of southern Louisiana and the Acadian settlers who later became known as Cajuns.
4. Cajun Mac And Cheese
Cajun mac and cheese is a comforting classic with a bold, flavorful twist that’s perfect for your list of Mardi Gras food ideas. This creamy dish gets its kick from Andouille sausage, pepper Jack cheese and a generous sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.
5. King Cake
King Cake is a butter-rich traditional Mardi Gras cake with cinnamon and a hidden baby Jesus tucked inside. Tradition says whoever gets the baby has to make next year’s cake and it’s typically served throughout the carnival season, which is from Epiphany Eve to Fat Tuesday.
The official colors of Mardi Gras represent the three kings — purple for justice, green for faith and gold for power — just like the beads.
6. Cajun Fried Turkey
Down in the South, few Mardi Gras food ideas command as much attention as a perfectly fried turkey. While traditional roasting has its merits, frying the turkey transforms an ordinary bird into something truly extraordinary.
For authentic Cajun flair, consider treating your bird to an overnight soak in a blend of melted butter, onion-garlic juice, Louisiana-style hot sauce and a splash of cold beer before lowering it into a bubbling bath of peanut oil.
7. Jambalaya
No Mardi Gras party is complete without a big bowl of Jambalaya. This is a spicy American and Creole dish that’s influenced by the French, African and Spanish cultures that make New Orleans so unique.
Its ingredients can include paprika, cayenne, thyme, onion and garlic powder, as well as chicken and shrimp with creole seasoning and Andouille sausage for extra flavor.
8. Crawfish Boil
Crawfish is as integral to the Mardi Gras tradition as the beads you’ll be wearing. It’s a festive outdoor feast featuring boiled crawfish, corn on the cob, potatoes and sausage.
To make it, start with a flavorful pot of boiling water seasoned with bay leaves, garlic, liquid shrimp and crab boil seasoning, as well as a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
Cook the vegetables and sausage first, then add the crawfish to the pot — they only need about five minutes to cook. You’ll know they’re done when their shells turn bright red and the tails pull out easily.
9. Shrimp and Grits
While this Southern comfort food is available at most restaurants and you can get the grits pre-made, it’s just as easy to enjoy at home with a little preparation. Start with stone-ground white grits with sharp Cheddar cheese and a touch of pancetta.
Add a hearty twist with tomato and sausage, or keep it lighter by building a flavorful vegetable base using bell pepper, onion and garlic. Lastly, simmer everything together with chicken broth to create a satisfying sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.
10. Dirty Rice
Dirty rice, often referred to as “rice dressing,” is one of the most beloved Mardi Gras food recipes. This hearty dish begins with browning spicy meats like sausage and ground beef, which lay the foundation for its signature taste.
From there, the Trinity of Louisiana cooking — onion, bell pepper and celery — is added, along with a medley of spices to build layers of flavor.
11. Cajun Seafood Pasta
For a traditional Mardi Gras food, make a Cajun seafood pasta with shrimp and scallops in a creamy, spicy sauce. The secret lies in a homemade Cajun seasoning blend with smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion salt, herbs and black pepper.
While bay scallops are ideal, if sea scallops are what you have on hand, simply cut them in half and stir it all up with fettuccine and lots of cheese for a Mardi Gras food fit for a party.
12. Cajun Crawfish and Shrimp Étouffée
Cajun crawfish and shrimp étouffée is a true Louisiana classic, featuring a rich tomato-based roux combined with tender crawfish and shrimp.
It’s a little time-consuming but well worth it. Serve over steamed rice with hush puppies and/or crackers on the side.
13. Shrimp Boil
This Southern classic starts with a flavorful broth enhanced by a head of garlic, sweet onion, bay leaves, Old Bay seasoning and a splash of wine for good measure.
The rich liquid is meant to infuse tender potatoes and sweet corn with bold Southern flavor and you’re meant to toss the shrimp in right before serving, so they can cook to perfection while maintaining their delicate texture.
Easy Mardi Gras Food Ideas
14. Fried Chicken Po' boy
A Po' boy is a beloved New Orleans sandwich that’s usually made with some type of fried meat such as fried chicken or seafood. The secret to an authentic fried chicken Po' boy is perfect seasoned chicken.
To achieve this, it’s recommended to marinate the chicken overnight in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, Cajun spices, paprika, salt, pepper and garlic powder.
15. Big-Batch Cajun Lemonade
A true Southern host knows the importance of serving a refreshing drink, and nothing beats a big pitcher of lemonade at a Mardi Gras food carnival. To make it, simply combine light rum, citron vodka, one can of lemonade concentrate and a splash of hot sauce. Add club soda just before serving to give the drink a light fizz.
16. Gumbo Pizza
This unique twist on the traditional gumbo typically features a pizza crust topped with gumbo sauce, shrimp, sausage and okra.
Alternatively, you can make this Mardi Gras-themed pie with a spicy chili oil base, then layer on chicken thighs, Andouille sausage and shrimp. Add sautéed onions and green peppers, a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning and finish with a generous coating of mozzarella cheese.
17. Fried Catfish
One of the easiest Mardi Gras food recipes to make, fried catfish starts with tender catfish fillets coated in seasoned cornmeal and fried until extra crispy.
For the ideal crunch, make sure to source fine white cornmeal and season with old bay or your own favorite blend of spices.
18. The Original Hurricane
The original Hurricane cocktail is the perfect addition to any Mardi Gras food and drink spread. It’s made with just three ingredients: dark rum, passion fruit syrup and lemon juice.
To make it, combine all the ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake it up and strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of orange and a cherry.
19. Colorful Party Popcorn
Just Popped purple, yellow and green colored popcorn is a must if you have kids. The kiddos will get a big kick out of this wholegrain, gluten-free treat that promises to remain fresh for a whopping 30 days if it's unopened.
20. Blackened Shrimp
Chances are, you already have everything you need in your spice cabinet to make blackened shrimp — sweet paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, kosher salt and just a dash of cayenne.
This simple mix creates a smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavor that elevates the shrimp. Once your seasoning is ready and well incorporated, simply toss the shrimp in a hot skillet until they develop that signature charred crust.
21. Traditional Gumbo
When it comes to the Mardi Gras food carnival, there’s no better way to enjoy it than with a warm and comforting bowl of gumbo.
Gumbo is a hearty stew featuring a flavorful broth, chicken, sausage and seafood and it’s served over rice. You can even find pre-packaged gumbo mixes at Mardi Gras food restaurant Cafe Du Monde.
22. Smoky Mardi Gras Wings
This mouthwatering Mardi Gras food starts with a robust blend of seasonings including black pepper, dried mustard, Creole seasoning, oregano, cumin, rosemary, kosher salt, garlic powder and chili powder.
One to two tablespoons of each should be enough for 5-7lbs of chicken wings which are then baked at 350 degrees.
23. Bourbon Chicken
For this recipe, coat bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken thighs in a mixture of salt, pepper, egg, cornstarch and oil, then marinate for several hours. Cook the chicken in oil, creating a well in the center to release garlic and ginger flavors.
Add soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, apple juice, chicken broth and chili flakes. Finish with a splash of bourbon, then serve over rice.
24. Great Northern Beans
This is one of the easiest Mardi Gras food recipes to make and it provides a fresh twist on the classic red beans and rice. To make it the ultimate Mardi Gras food, start by sautéing onions, celery and bell pepper, then add herbs, spices, beans and vegetable broth.
The creamy beans served over rice, create a hearty and filling dish that can be tailored to your preferences — whether you're making vegan soul food or a version loaded with meat.
Mardi Gras Party Food Appetizers
25. Fried Green Tomatoes
Looking for another addition to your Mardi Gras party food appetizers? Enter; fried green tomatoes. To make these, dip green tomato slices into buttermilk, coat them in a mixture of cornmeal and fry until they’re golden and crisp.
Of course, no plate of fried green tomatoes is complete without a flavorful dipping sauce like spicy rémoulade.
26. Crawfish Beignets
Crawfish beignets bring a savory twist to the classic New Orleans pastry. To make them, you’ll need a well-seasoned batter of flour, celery salt, baking powder, cayenne pepper and a touch of garlic powder.
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk, then gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined.
Stir in chopped green onions and chopped crawfish until evenly distributed. You’ll then shape your mixture into balls before frying it in 350-degree oil until golden brown and crispy.
27. Hot Crawfish Dip
The star of any crawfish dip is the crawfish meat itself, which comes together with a base of cream cheese and green onions, as well as sautéed bell peppers, a mix of Creole seasoning, garlic and pimientos.
Some variations might include celery, cheddar cheese, or seasonings like Worcestershire sauce, mustard, hot sauce or paprika for added depth.
28. Giant King Cake Burger
If you’re looking for an extravagant way to celebrate Fat Tuesday, this insane burger is for you. Although unusual, it’s a showstopping dish that’s sure to impress.
To make, simply grill up a giant burger patty with bacon and cheese, and use a whole king cake for the bun.
29. Crabby Hush Puppies
For a tasty addition to your Mardi Gras party food appetizers, try some crispy hush puppies. To make them, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, old bay, baking powder, salt and cayenne in one bowl, and whisk together buttermilk, egg white, melted butter, crabmeat, onion and chives in another.
Gently drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown. Once fried, you can serve these warm and sprinkled with parsley.
30. Cajun Crab Cakes
At their core, crab cakes are a simple combination of crab meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, a binder like mustard or mayonnaise and a blend of spices.
When making them as part of your Mardi Gras food menu, be sure to season them with Cajun spices and a special sauce such as a zesty rémoulade that reflects this occasion’s indulgent mood.
31. Creole Crawfish Pie
Turn your Mardi Gras food carnival into a true Southern meal with the addition of savory crawfish pie.
The filling is made with creamy crawfish tails spiced with Creole seasonings and softened vegetables, and you can serve it as a full pie or in individual hand pie form.
32. Old Bay Rémoulade with Crudités and Shrimp
Another great addition to your Mardi Gras party food appetizers, these crispy bites are quite easy to put together.
Simply blend old bay seasoning, mayonnaise and a few pantry staples to create a rémoulade that pairs beautifully with shrimp and crisp vegetables on a large platter.
33. The Muffuletta
The muffuletta is a substantial sandwich made with layers of Italian cold cuts, cheese and salad on a round loaf of bread.
The olive salad, found in the pickle aisle of most grocery stores, is key to achieving the muffuletta’s signature flavor. You can also make Mufaletta pinwheels which are a hit with kids.
34. Crawfish Rolls
Whether you’re cooking your own crawfish tails, picking them up fresh from the seafood shop, or using frozen crawfish meat, this Cajun-inspired sandwich is easy to make.
Simply throw together a crawfish salad with a bit of mayo, celery and the perfect blend of spices, then pile it onto warm dinner rolls.
35. French Quarter Cheese Spread
French Quarter cheese spread can go a long way to crafting the perfect bite in your Mardi Gras party food appetizers.
Built on a foundation of cream cheese brightened with onion and garlic, this appetizer takes an unexpected turn with its crown of spiced pecans, and it pairs perfectly with a buttery Ritz cracker.
36. Oysters Rockefeller
Don’t forget to add oyster Rockefeller to your list of Mardi Gras food ideas. To make this recipe, start with a dozen cleaned and shucked oysters. Then, blend garlic, green onion, parsley, baby spinach and a splash of white wine into a paste.
Sauté it in butter with crawfish boil seasoning, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar, then thicken with parmesan or breadcrumbs.
Spoon the mixture over the oysters, broil for 5 minutes, add a little more parmesan, broil again, and finish with fresh parsley.
Delicious Mardi Gras Desserts
37. Pancakes
To really feel like you’re in NOLA, you need baked goods and pancakes are a traditional Mardi Gras food that’s easy and mess-free. The best part is that there are endless ways to enjoy them.
From on-theme king cake pancakes to cinnamon roll pancakes, beer float pancakes and everything in between — this quick Mardi Gras food is a fantastic way to clear out your pantry before Lent.
38. Pecan Pralines
These sweet and buttery candies are made with sugar, cream, butter, and pecans and are often flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. As they cool, the mixture sets into a firm yet slightly creamy treat, with the crunch of toasted pecans adding a satisfying contrast.
39. Fasnacht
The Germans are known for making fried doughnuts called fasnacht meaning "night before the fast."
This perfectly crispy, slightly sweet doughnut is made from pantry essentials like eggs, sugar and lard, and is traditionally sliced like a morning bagel before getting a generous spread of sweet molasses.
40. King Cake Cheese Cake
Since king cake will likely take center stage in your Mardi Gras food spread, you might as well make a cheesecake version.
The recipe comes together in three parts: a graham cracker crust (homemade or store-bought, depending on your time), a luscious cheesecake filling and a cream cheese glaze topped with brightly colored sugar.
41. Beignets
Of course, there are always beignets to be had in the Big Easy around Fat Tuesday, especially at the iconic Mardi Gras food restaurant Café du Monde.
Crafting beignets at home is simpler than you might think and there are two main styles to enjoy; French beignets made with fried choux pastry and Louisiana-style beignets that rely on a yeasted dough.
42. Bananas Foster French Toast
This unique Mardi Gras food is made with thick slices of custard-soaked challah (or brioche) fried to golden perfection and then smothered in a rich, rum and cinnamon-infused caramel sauce.
The sauce is loaded with soft, caramelized bananas and crunchy pecans, creating a decadent experience that makes this one of the top Mardi Gras desserts to include in your menu.
43. New Orleans Bread Pudding
Mardi Gras desserts don’t get more classic or indulgent than New Orleans bread pudding. This traditional Mardi Gras food starts with stale bread or muffins, which are soaked in a sweet, creamy custard made with eggs and milk, with warm spices and fragrant nuts for added depth. The bourbon sauce mellows beautifully when poured over the warm bread pudding.
44. Mardi Gras Cupcakes
These beauties are something that you can easily throw together at the last minute using pre-made cupcake mix and homemade purple, green and yellow icing.
Plus, you can have a decorating frenzy with the kids adding sprinkles, beads, and colorful sugar to create a festive treat.
45. Moon Pies
Originally created as a hearty handheld snack for coal miners, moon pies are said to have gotten their name when a bakery salesman described the treats as being “as big as the moon.”
This nostalgic Mardi Gras food features a soft marshmallow filling nestled between two graham cracker cookies, all wrapped in a thin layer of chocolate, vanilla, strawberry or other sweet coatings.
46. King Cake Beignets
This delightful twist on traditional Mardi Gras food combines the fluffy goodness of fried beignets with the festive charm of a traditional king cake.
All you have to do is take fried beignets and top them with a cream cheese glaze and a sprinkle of purple, green and gold sanding sugars for that signature Mardi Gras look.
47. Bananas Foster
This rich dessert is made with bananas sauteed in butter, brown sugar and cinnamon flambeed with rum and enjoyed with vanilla ice cream.
It’s the perfect dessert for a Mardi Gras food carnival and can be served in a dessert bowl topped with syrup and vanilla bean ice cream and shaved chocolate.
Mardi Gras Food FAQs
What Is the Signature Snack of Mardi Gras?
King cake is hands-down the most popular Mardi Gras snack and for good reason; it has been a part of this celebration from the beginning.
What Is the Most Popular Food on Fat Tuesday?
Of the Mardi Gras food and drinks shared here, king cake, crawfish boil, jambalaya and pancakes are some of the most popular.
Every January, while the rest of the world winds down after the holiday season, the city of New Orleans comes alive, gearing up for Mardi Gras. The carnival season is a vibrant celebration filled with parades, grand balls, adult party games and iconic signature dishes.
After all, Fat Tuesday wouldn’t live up to its name without the food, and with these festive Mardi Gras food ideas, you’ll be ready to embrace the spirit of the celebration in style.
For even more delicious food ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
