Mardi Gras is more than just parades and colorful beads—it’s also a celebration of rich, flavorful food that embodies the spirit of New Orleans. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply want to enjoy some Louisiana-inspired cuisine, these ten traditional Mardi Gras dishes are a must-try. Each dish is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the region, bringing together bold flavors, Cajun and Creole influences, and a love for good food.
1. Mardi Gras King Cake
No Mardi Gras celebration is complete without the famous King Cake. This sweet, cinnamon-filled pastry is typically shaped into a ring and decorated with purple, green, and gold icing. Hidden inside is a tiny plastic baby—whoever finds it in their slice is said to have good luck and is responsible for bringing the next King Cake to the party.
Find the full recipe here : Mardi Gras King Cake.
2. Shrimp Po’ Boys
A Shrimp Po’ Boy is a classic New Orleans sandwich featuring crispy fried shrimp stuffed into a soft French baguette, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and a tangy remoulade sauce. Originally created to serve “poor boys” during a streetcar strike, this sandwich has become a staple of Louisiana cuisine.
Find the full recipe here : Shrimp Po’ Boys
3. Jambalaya
This one-pot dish is a true Mardi Gras favorite. Jambalaya is a hearty combination of rice, sausage, chicken, and shrimp, all simmered in a flavorful, seasoned tomato broth. With roots in both Spanish paella and French influences, jambalaya is the perfect way to experience Creole and Cajun cooking in one bite.
Find the full recipe here : Jambalaya
4. Beignets
If you have a sweet tooth, Beignets are a must-try. These deep-fried dough squares are generously dusted with powdered sugar, creating a deliciously crispy yet pillowy treat. Served fresh and warm, they pair perfectly with a cup of café au lait for an authentic New Orleans experience.
Find the full recipe here : Beignets
5. Muffuletta Sandwich
The Muffuletta is a giant Italian-inspired sandwich created by Sicilian immigrants in New Orleans. Made with a round sesame-seed loaf, layers of cured meats, cheese, and an iconic olive salad, this sandwich is bursting with flavor. It’s best served pressed and sliced, making it a great party food for Mardi Gras celebrations.
Find the full recipe here : Muffuletta Sandwich
6. Copycat Moon Pies
Mardi Gras parade-goers are often treated to Moon Pies, a nostalgic, marshmallow-filled treat coated in chocolate or other flavors. Originally from the South, these sweet sandwich snacks have become a treasured part of the Mardi Gras experience. A homemade version can capture the same delightful taste as the ones tossed from parade floats.
Find the full recipe here : Copycat Moon Pies
7. Good New Orleans Creole Gumbo
Gumbo is Louisiana’s signature dish, offering a rich and comforting blend of ingredients. Made with a dark roux, okra, and either seafood or meats like sausage and chicken, this dish is thickened to perfection and served over rice. With deep Creole roots, a bowl of authentic gumbo is a staple at any Mardi Gras feast.
Find the full recipe here : Good New Orleans Creole Gumbo
8. Heather’s Crawfish Étouffée
Nothing says Louisiana like Crawfish Étouffée. This dish features crawfish smothered in a buttery, spiced roux with onions, celery, and bell peppers—the “Holy Trinity” of Cajun cuisine. Served over rice, étouffée is creamy, comforting, and packed with bold flavors.
Find the full recipe here : Heather’s Crawfish Étouffée
9. Authentic New Orleans Red Beans and Rice
Traditionally served on Mondays, Red Beans and Rice is a simple yet satisfying dish that has become synonymous with New Orleans cuisine. Made with slow-cooked red beans, smoked sausage, and ham hocks, this dish is rich, creamy, and full of smoky flavors, making it a Mardi Gras essential.
Find the full recipe here : Red Beans and Rice
10. New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp
Unlike traditional barbecue, New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp features shell-on shrimp sautéed in a buttery, garlicky, and slightly spicy sauce made with Worcestershire and lemon juice. Served with crusty French bread for soaking up every last drop of the sauce, this dish is a favorite at both casual gatherings and upscale restaurants alike.
Find the full recipe here : New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp