21 Mardi Gras Snacks to Spice Up Your Celebration

Mardi Gras is a vibrant and exciting time of year, filled with color, music, and of course, incredible food. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying the season, it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in festive snacks. From savory bites to sweet treats, Mardi Gras offers a wide variety of delicious options. Creating a spread of these snacks can really bring that New Orleans flair to your home, making every moment feel like part of the celebration.

When it comes to snacks, simplicity and flavor are key. That’s why I’ve rounded up 21 Mardi Gras-inspired snacks that are both easy to prepare and bursting with bold, festive flavors. These snacks are perfect for anyone looking to add a little creative twist to their Mardi Gras menu, offering a fun and colorful variety that’s sure to impress.

If you’re looking to elevate your Mardi Gras celebrations with some exciting and delicious snacks, this list has you covered. These 21 recipes are filled with vibrant colors, unique flavors, and all the energy that Mardi Gras is known for.

Make sure you also take a look at my recipes for Mardi Gras party food.

1. Cajun Boudin Balls

These Cajun Boudin Balls are a must-try for anyone looking to bring a little spice to their Mardi Gras spread. Packed with flavor and perfectly crispy on the outside, these bite-sized treats are a great way to add a touch of Louisiana to your table. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just want to try something new, these boudin balls are sure to be a hit at any celebration.

Servings: 12 balls

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boudin sausage
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the boudin sausage, cooked rice, and green onions. Mix well until fully combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
3. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
4. Roll each ball in flour, dip in the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the boudin balls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

2. Shrimp and Grits Bites

These Shrimp and Grits Bites are the perfect way to combine two classic Southern favorites into one irresistible snack. With tender shrimp and creamy grits, all in one bite-sized package, they’re a crowd-pleaser that packs all the flavors of a traditional shrimp and grits dish into something fun and portable. Perfect for your Mardi Gras spread, these bites are sure to add a little Southern charm to your celebration!

Servings: 12 bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quick-cooking grits
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese.
2. Spread the grits mixture onto a baking sheet to cool and set. Once set, cut into small squares or rounds.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning, cooking until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. To assemble, place a piece of shrimp on each grit square. Garnish with chopped green onions.
5. Serve warm.

3. King Cake Mini Muffins

These King Cake Mini Muffins are a fun, bite-sized twist on the traditional Mardi Gras treat. With their soft, cinnamon-sugar flavor and colorful glaze, they capture all the sweetness of a classic king cake in a portable form. Perfect for anyone craving the festive flavors of Mardi Gras without the fuss, these mini muffins will bring a burst of color and sweetness to your celebration!

Servings: 24 mini muffins

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Purple, green, and gold sprinkles (for decoration)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Once cooled, drizzle with icing (made from powdered sugar and milk) and top with colorful sprinkles.

4. Crispy Fried Catfish Bites

These Crispy Fried Catfish Bites are a deliciously crunchy, flavorful snack that brings the taste of the South right to your Mardi Gras celebration. Lightly battered and perfectly fried, each bite is packed with tender catfish and a satisfying crunch. They’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce and are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves classic Southern flavors with a crispy twist!

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 pound catfish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Soak the catfish pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove catfish from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then coat each piece in the cornmeal mixture.
5. Fry the catfish bites in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

5. Jambalaya Stuffed Peppers

These Jambalaya Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and fun twist on a classic Creole dish. Filled with a savory mixture of sausage, shrimp, and rice, these peppers bring all the rich, hearty flavors of jambalaya in a convenient, bite-sized package. They’re the perfect addition to your Mardi Gras spread, offering a delicious balance of spices and comfort in every bite!

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 3 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 pound andouille sausage, diced
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• Olive oil, for cooking
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and green bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
4. Add garlic, sausage, and shrimp, cooking until shrimp are pink. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

6. Mardi Gras Deviled Eggs

These Mardi Gras Deviled Eggs are a festive and flavorful twist on a classic appetizer. With a creamy, zesty filling topped with vibrant purple and yellow garnishes, they capture the spirit of Mardi Gras in every bite. Perfect for adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor to your spread, these deviled eggs are sure to be popular at your celebration!

Servings: 12 eggs (6 whole eggs)

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped purple cabbage (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Hard boil the eggs by placing them in a pot, covering with water, and bringing to a boil. Once boiling, cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 12 minutes, then cool in ice water.
2. Peel the eggs and cut them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth.
4. Fold in the chopped green onions and red bell pepper.
5. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
6. Garnish with chopped purple cabbage for a pop of color.
7. Serve chilled.

7. Crawfish Queso Dip

This Crawfish Queso Dip is a creamy, savory treat that’s perfect for dipping and sharing at any Mardi Gras gathering. Packed with tender crawfish and melty cheese, it’s a rich and flavorful dip that adds a Louisiana twist to your spread. Whether served with tortilla chips or fresh veggies, this dip is sure to become the star of the party, bringing that bold, Southern flavor everyone will love!

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 pound crawfish tails, cooked and drained
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, green bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic until softened.
2. Add the crawfish tails and Cajun seasoning, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and milk. Heat over low heat, stirring until smooth and melted.
4. Stir the crawfish mixture into the cheese mixture until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips.

8. Spicy Sausage and Cheese Skewers

These Spicy Sausage and Cheese Skewers are a simple yet flavorful addition to your Mardi Gras spread. The combination of smoky sausage and rich, melted cheese, with just the right amount of heat, makes each bite a savory delight. Easy to serve and packed with bold flavors, these skewers are perfect for satisfying your guests’ cravings for something spicy and satisfying during the celebration!

Servings: 12 skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 pound smoked sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, toss the sausage pieces, cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, and bell pepper with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the sausage, cheese, tomatoes, and bell pepper onto the skewers, alternating as desired.
4. Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausage is heated through and the cheese starts to melt.
5. Serve warm.

9. Banana Foster Bites

These Banana Foster Bites are a sweet and decadent treat that captures the essence of the classic New Orleans dessert in a fun, bite-sized form. With caramelized bananas, a hint of rum flavor, and a sweet glaze, these bites bring all the indulgence of Banana Foster to your Mardi Gras celebration. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, and will definitely satisfy your guests’ cravings for something indulgent and festive!

Servings: 12 bites

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 12 small puff pastry cups (store-bought)
• Whipped cream (for serving)
• Chopped pecans (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven according to puff pastry package instructions.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the brown sugar, stirring until dissolved. Add the banana slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until caramelized. If using, stir in the dark rum and cinnamon.
3. Bake the puff pastry cups according to package instructions until golden brown.
4. Fill each puff pastry cup with the caramelized banana mixture.
5. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
6. Serve warm.

10. Gumbo Spring Rolls

These Gumbo Spring Rolls are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the rich flavors of gumbo in a handheld bite. Filled with a savory blend of sausage, shrimp, and vegetables, and then wrapped in crispy spring roll wrappers, they’re the perfect balance of comfort and crunch. Served with a dipping sauce, these spring rolls are sure to be a hit at your Mardi Gras celebration, offering all the bold flavors of gumbo in a fun, portable snack!

Servings: 12 spring rolls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup cooked andouille sausage, diced
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 12 spring roll wrappers
• Oil for frying
• Remoulade sauce (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Add the okra and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
2. Stir in the shredded chicken, andouille sausage, shrimp, and Cajun seasoning. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Let the mixture cool.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling near one edge. Fold the sides over and roll tightly.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the spring rolls in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm with remoulade sauce for dipping.

11. Creole Chicken Wings

These Creole Chicken Wings are a flavorful and spicy addition to any Mardi Gras spread. Coated in a tangy, zesty Creole seasoning, these wings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or part of a larger spread, these wings are sure to be a crowd favorite, bringing a little Southern kick to your celebration!

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
4. Spread the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

12. Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks

These Pimento Cheese Stuffed Celery Sticks are a simple yet flavorful appetizer that adds a crunchy, creamy bite to your Mardi Gras spread. The smooth and tangy pimento cheese filling pairs perfectly with the crisp celery, creating a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. These easy-to-make snacks are not only delicious but also a great option for guests looking for a lighter, yet tasty treat during the celebration!

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup pimentos, diced (drained)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 celery stalks, cut into 3-inch pieces
• Paprika (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, diced pimentos, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Spoon the pimento cheese mixture into the celery sticks, filling them generously.
3. Arrange the stuffed celery on a platter and sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

13. Blackened Fish Tacos

These Blackened Fish Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful way to bring some spice to your Mardi Gras festivities. With perfectly seasoned blackened fish, topped with crisp slaw and a zesty sauce, each taco is a burst of bold, Southern-inspired flavor. They’re light, fresh, and just the right amount of spicy – perfect for adding a fun twist to your celebration while keeping things deliciously easy to enjoy!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound white fish fillets (like tilapia or snapper)
• 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup carrots, grated
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rub the fish fillets with blackening seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and blackened. Remove from heat and flake into pieces.
3. In a bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, cilantro, lime juice, and salt and pepper to make the slaw.
4. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing flaked fish on each tortilla, topping with slaw, and drizzling with sour cream.
6. Serve immediately.

14. Spicy Shrimp Po’ Boy Sliders

These Spicy Shrimp Po’ Boy Sliders are a mini version of the classic New Orleans sandwich, packed with bold flavors and a little kick. With crispy shrimp, tangy remoulade, and fresh veggies, all nestled in a soft slider bun, these bites bring the perfect balance of spice and crunch. They’re a delicious and fun way to enjoy a Southern favorite at your Mardi Gras celebration, and sure to be a hit with anyone craving a taste of the Bayou!

Servings: 12 sliders

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 slider buns
• Lettuce, shredded
• Tomato, sliced
• Remoulade sauce (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove shrimp from buttermilk and coat in the cornmeal mixture.
5. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing a few shrimp on each slider bun, topping with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and a drizzle of remoulade sauce.
7. Serve warm.

15. Cajun Corn Fritters

These Cajun Corn Fritters are a crispy, flavorful bite that brings a bit of Southern comfort to your Mardi Gras spread. With a mix of sweet corn and zesty Cajun seasoning, these fritters are perfectly golden on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re great for dipping and make a fun, savory addition to your celebration, offering bold flavors in every bite!

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying
• Hot sauce or remoulade (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine corn, flour, cornmeal, green onions, bell pepper, egg, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
3. Drop spoonfuls of the corn mixture into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve warm with hot sauce or remoulade for dipping.

16. Cajun Meatballs

These Cajun Meatballs are a flavorful and hearty addition to your Mardi Gras spread. With a perfect blend of spices and savory meat, each bite is packed with bold, zesty flavor. Whether served with a dipping sauce or on their own, these meatballs bring a satisfying kick to your celebration, offering a delicious taste of Cajun cuisine that’s sure to be a crowd favorite!

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Cajun seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
5. Serve warm with barbecue sauce for dipping.

17. Sweet Potato and Andouille Hash

This Sweet Potato and Andouille Hash is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the perfect combination of sweet and savory. The tender sweet potatoes paired with the smoky, spicy Andouille sausage create a delicious balance of flavors, while the crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch. Whether served as a side or on its own, this dish is a tasty and comforting addition to your Mardi Gras spread, offering a little Southern flair in every bite!

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 pound andouille sausage, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
2. Add the andouille sausage, onion, bell pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sausage is browned.
3. Serve warm in small cups or on skewers, garnished with chopped green onions.

18. Mini Muffuletta Sandwiches

These Mini Muffuletta Sandwiches are a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic New Orleans favorite. Packed with layers of flavorful deli meats, provolone cheese, and a tangy olive salad, these sandwiches are a perfect balance of savory and zesty. Easy to grab and go, they’re an ideal addition to your Mardi Gras spread, offering a delicious taste of New Orleans in every little bite!

Servings: 12 mini sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 small round loaf of bread (or 12 mini rolls)
• 1/2 cup olive salad (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 pound salami, sliced
• 1/2 pound ham, sliced
• 1/2 pound provolone cheese, sliced
• 1/4 pound mortadella, sliced
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. If using a round loaf of bread, slice it in half horizontally. If using mini rolls, slice each roll in half.
2. Layer the salami, ham, provolone cheese, mortadella, and olive salad on the bottom half of the bread or on each mini roll.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and place the top half of the bread or the top of the mini rolls on top.
4. Press down gently and slice into individual servings if using a large loaf.
5. Serve at room temperature or lightly toasted.

19. Zydeco Zucchini Fritters

These Zydeco Zucchini Fritters are a crispy, flavorful snack that adds a fresh and savory twist to your Mardi Gras celebration. Packed with grated zucchini, bold Cajun seasoning, and a light crispy coating, these fritters are the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether served as an appetizer or side dish, they bring a fun, Southern-inspired flavor to your spread that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying
• Sour cream or ranch dressing (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, cornmeal, green onions, Parmesan cheese, egg, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve warm with sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping.

20. Creole Crab Cakes

These Creole Crab Cakes are a flavorful, golden-crisp treat that brings a taste of the coast to your Mardi Gras celebration. Made with tender crab meat and seasoned with bold Creole spices, these crab cakes are crispy on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside. Served with a zesty remoulade or dipping sauce, they’re a delicious and elegant snack that’s sure to impress your guests with every bite!

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, gently combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, green onions, red bell pepper, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter).
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Serve warm with spicy remoulade sauce.

21. New Orleans Style Stuffed Mushrooms

These New Orleans Style Stuffed Mushrooms are a savory and indulgent bite that adds a touch of Creole flavor to your Mardi Gras spread. Filled with a rich mixture of sausage, cheese, and bold spices, these mushrooms are perfectly baked to create a golden, flavorful crust. They’re an elegant and delicious appetizer that brings the essence of New Orleans cuisine to your celebration in every bite!

Servings: 12 mushrooms

Ingredients:

• 12 large button mushrooms, stems removed
• 1/2 pound andouille sausage, casing removed
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet.
2. In a skillet, cook the andouille sausage over medium heat until browned. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Cajun seasoning. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

With these 21 Mardi Gras snacks, your celebration is sure to be filled with bold flavors, fun bites, and plenty of Southern flair. Whether you’re craving something savory, spicy, or sweet, these recipes offer a delicious way to bring the spirit of Mardi Gras to your table.