Mardi Gras isn’t just a single day but weeks of parties and celebrations, and what’s a good party without food? In the lead up to Lent, it is a time of self-discipline and restraint. During this time, Mardi Gras goes all in. It peaks on the final day: Fat Tuesday. We want each gathering to be as festive as possible. To help with that, we compiled the best Mardi Gras recipe ideas. These range from desserts and cocktails to hearty mains. You’ll find the perfect fit for your menu.

I visited New Orleans for Mardi Gras. I raced to taste everything the city had to offer. There were sugar-dusted beignets, overstuffed po’boys, and strong cocktails. The New Orleans-inspired recipes in this collection take me back to that visit. Somehow, I always found room for one more bite or sip. There are Cajun recipes full of bold flavors. Try gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. A crawfish boil is perfect for a leisurely afternoon with friends.

For dessert, try bananas Foster or a slice of king cake for a sweet end to the meal. To sip, it’s hard to go wrong with a fruity Hurricane cocktail. Don’t be fooled by the light, tropical taste of the drink—it packs a punch! I haven’t returned to New Orleans since that memorable trip. However, I love re-creating the experience at home with Mardi Gras party dishes like these.

Taste of Home