Mardi Gras is all about community, celebration, and the unmistakable taste of New Orleans. With Camellia Brand Red Kidney Beans and our Red Bean Flavor Infusion, you can prepare dishes that honor local heritage or experiment with playful new spins. Whether you’re whipping up a simple supper before heading to a parade or hosting a full-on event, these selections bring Mardi Gras straight to your kitchen.

Camellia Brand’s Famous Red Beans & Rice

This beloved recipe captures the essence of New Orleans home cooking. Slow-simmered beans meld with the “holy trinity” of onion, celery, and bell pepper, along with smoked sausage. 

Instant Pot Creole Red Beans

Short on time? Our quicker variation delivers bold seasoning and depth without hours on the stove. Ideal for weeknights, parade days, or when you want something warm and filling with minimal effort.

Napoleon House Red Beans & Rice

Inspired by a historic French Quarter landmark, this meal reflects the charm of old-school New Orleans. It’s deeply seasoned, and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Pableaux’s Monday Night Red Beans

Pableaux Johnson prepares red beans at the Mosquito Supper Club for first responders during the pandemic. Photo by Ryan Hodgson-Rigsbee

A tribute to an iconic weekly gathering, this version feels like a pot shared among neighbors. Classic ingredients come together to create a satisfying bowl — the kind that keeps people returning for seconds.

Easy Crawfish & Red Bean Dip

Looking for a party dish? This creamy dip blends red beans with Louisiana crawfish for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It’s a fun addition to any function and disappears fast.

Instant Pot Red Bean Soup

Smooth, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this soup offers a different way to enjoy red beans. Pair it with crusty bread or cornbread for a warming, balanced meal that’s great before or after a long day of Mardi Gras revelry.

Red Beans & Rice for 50

Feeding a big krewe? This large-batch favorite is a lifesaver. It scales beautifully and delivers consistent results, making it fitting for community events, potlucks, or parade-day gatherings.

Why These Recipes Work for Mardi Gras

• They bring people together — great for sharing with family, friends, or your parade group.
• Options range from slow-cooked to fast Instant Pot meals, so there’s something for every schedule.
• You can batch-cook, customize spice levels, or adjust ingredients to fit any food preference.
• Red beans shine in both entrees and snacks, giving you plenty of variety.

Q&A — Your Mardi Gras Cooking Questions Answered

Q: Can I use Red Bean Flavor Infusion in any red bean meal?
Yes — it enhances seasoning and depth, especially in quicker recipes like Instant Pot options or soups.

Q: What’s the easiest way to cook for a large group?
Recipes like “Red Beans & Rice for 50” are already designed for party-sized servings. For smaller gatherings, doubling ingredients usually works well — just taste and adjust as you go.

Q: Are these recipes flexible for different diets?
Definitely. Swap sausage for a plant-based option, use vegetable broth, or tone down spices for milder tastes. Beans adapt easily to many cooking styles.

Q: What should I serve alongside red beans?
Rice is the go-to partner, but cornbread, greens, salad, or French bread all complement these dishes beautifully.