Mardi Gras Food Ideas
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Updated Jan 24, 2025
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These Mardi Gras food ideas will kick off the feasting celebrations! Packed with bold, spicy, and zesty Creole and Cajun flavors, they’re perfect for entertaining a crowd during Carnival or “Fat Tuesday.”
The Best Mardi Gras Food
After experiencing Mardi Gras in New Orleans, I’ve developed a newfound love for Southern food. The parties on Bourbon Street and in the French Quarter were unforgettable and the food was truly incredible. Each dish was packed with delicious flavor, and I admired the rich history and culture behind every bite.
On that note, I’m excited to share these delicious Mardi Gras recipes that will bring the best taste of New Orleans to your kitchens. I’ll add more in the future, but for now, here are a few Southern classics everyone loves—perfect for feasting before Ash Wednesday!
Jambalaya: A big pot of jambalaya is one of the best meals to celebrate Mardi Gras. It’s a hearty blend of chicken, sausage, shrimp, veggies, and rice, brimming with spiced Cajun and Creole flavors.
Blackened Salmon: Blackened salmon is truly a special treat and a delicious way to enjoy seafood on this day. The salmon is moist and flaky, with a crispy crust layered with Cajun spices. Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lime juice on top for the final touch!
Cajun Shrimp: This jump shrimp dish is another tasty way to use my cajun seasoning! It’s fast, easy, and will make your kitchen smell like you’re back in Louisiana.
Fried Cabbage: This classic southern side dish takes sautéed cabbage to the next level. Cabbage cooks with crispy bacon, stone ground mustard, and paprika for a smoky, spiced touch.
Creamy Cajun Chicken: This unique recipe came from when I was looking for ways to use my homemade cajun seasoning, and it did not disappoint! Seared cajun spiced chicken simmers in the most deliciously creamy sauce dotted with fresh veggies. This is one you’ll definitely want to serve over mashed potatoes.
Cabbage Soup: There’s nothing like this simple, comforting, and delicious cabbage soup to enjoy Mardi Gras at home.
I hope you enjoy these Mardi Gras recipes! If you make any of them, I’d love to hear how they turned out in the comment box below. Your review will help other readers in the community.
Best Mardi Gras Food Ideas
Description
Ingredients
- 4 (7-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 rib of celery, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream, *see note above for dairy-free options
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the chicken. Season both sides of each chicken breast with the Cajun seasoning.
- Sear the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until golden. Remove the chicken from the pan to a plate and set aside.
- Saute the veggies. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil along with the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Saute for 3 to 4 minutes, until the veggies have softened. Add the garlic and saute for another minute.
- Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stir together, and bring to a simmer.
- Let it simmer. Place the chicken back in the skillet and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition
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