A Taste of New Orleans

Growing up in Mississippi, just a couple of hours from New Orleans, Mardi Gras wasn’t just a holiday; it was an experience. My dad’s business had a branch in New Orleans, so we spent a lot of time in the Crescent City. My mom, a masterful cook with a flair for flavor, made sure our table was always full of Cajun-inspired dishes. It’s no wonder Mardi Gras holds a special place in my heart—and my stomach.

I’ve always loved the bold colors, vibrant music, and incredible food that make Mardi Gras so much fun. And this year, I’m celebrating with a brunch that embodies the true spirit of New Orleans. From spicy Creole eggs to Biscuit beignets, this brunch has it all.

Want the full menu and a foolproof prep checklist? I’ve got you covered—grab my free Mardi Gras Brunch Guide below.

🍽️ The Menu: What to Serve

A Mardi Gras brunch is all about flavor, fun, and flair. Here’s what I’m serving to bring the spirit of New Orleans to my table:

• Creole Eggs – Flavorful, slightly spicy, perfectly brunch-worthy.
• Grits & Grillades – The ultimate Southern comfort dish.
• Biscuit Beignets – No-fail shortcut to pillowy fried dough goodness.
• Bourbon Bread Pudding French Toast – Decadent, indulgent, and perfect for brunch.
• Brunch Cocktails: Bloody Marys, Brandy Milk Punch, and Mardi Gras Mimosas.

Want a step-by-step brunch prep list? Grab the Mardi Gras Brunch Guide and make planning a breeze!

Grits & Grillades

Check out this recipe

Creole Egg Casserole

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Biscuit Beignets

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Bourbon Bread Pudding French Toast Casserole

Check out this recipe

🎷 The Setup: Creating a Festive Mardi Gras Brunch Vibe

Mardi Gras isn’t subtle, and your brunch shouldn’t be either. When it comes to decorating, more is more. Here’s how to make it look festive yet chic:

• Color Scheme: Stick to the traditional Mardi Gras colors—purple, green, and gold. It’s bold, vibrant, and super festive.
• Masks on Sticks in a Vase: Arrange decorative masks in a vase as a centerpiece and drape beads over the sides for extra flair.
• Jazz-Inspired Centerpiece: Use a trumpet or saxophone (real or decorative) surrounded by candles and greenery for a vintage New Orleans vibe.
• Fleur-de-Lis Accents: Incorporate this iconic motif through napkin rings, gold chargers, or etched glassware.
• Hanging Bead Chandelier: Drape strands of beads from a chandelier or overhead light for an eye-catching effect.

Need more inspiration? The full breakdown is in my Mardi Gras Brunch Guide!

📍 The Game Plan: How to Prep Without Stress

The key to a stress-free brunch? Preparation. Here’s how to make it happen:

The Night Before:

• Batch Cocktails: Prep Bloody Mary mix, Milk Punch, and Mimosas.
• Chop Veggies: Have all your ingredients ready to go.
• Set Up Decor: Get your table, buffet, and bar area ready so there’s no last-minute scrambling.

The Morning Of:

• Bake the Casseroles: Pop the grits, Creole eggs, and bread pudding in the oven.
• Air Fry the Beignets: They’re best served warm and dusted with powdered sugar.
• Final Touches: Set the table, light candles, and turn on some New Orleans jazz.

Want the full prep timeline and menu breakdown? Grab the Mardi Gras Brunch Guide and host like a pro!

Hosting doesn’t have to be a burden. Whether you’re planning an intimate brunch or turning your home into a Galatoire’s style celebration, this guide has everything you need.

Ready to host a Mardi Gras brunch like a pro?

Laissez les bons temps rouler!