The Best Cooking Classes in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its rich flavors, soulful dishes, and vibrant food culture. Now, you can bring that magic to your own kitchen with our New Orleans cooking class! At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, we offer hands-on experiences where you’ll learn the secrets of Creole and Cajun cuisine. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, our expert chefs will guide you through each step, ensuring you create delicious, authentic dishes.


Join us for a NOLA cooking class and master the art of New Orleans cookery—from perfecting a roux for gumbo to crafting the best jambalaya. Our fun, interactive environment makes this the perfect experience for food lovers, couples, and groups.

Roux Class

New Orleans is famous for its iconic dishes like Gumbo, Étouffée, and Bananas Foster, cher! Come hear the rich stories behind these culinary treasures while our chefs share their best-kept secrets and keep you laughing with their tales.

  • Chicken & Andouille Sausage Gumbo

  • Shrimp Étouffée

  • Bananas Foster
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Traditions Class

These age-old recipes are sure to become your new favorite Cajun and Creole dishes! Rooted in centuries of tradition, they’re just as beloved today as ever.

In this class, we’ll use all the classic Cajun and Creole meats to create a flavorful Jambalaya and our legendary Barbecue Shrimp. If you’ve never tried our Barbecue Shrimp before, prepare to be amazed—it’s a true taste of New Orleans!

  • Barbecue Shrimp (New Orleans style)

  • Chicken and Andouille Sausage Jambalaya

  • Chocolate Bread Pudding w/Brandy Mocha Sauce
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New Orleans Creole Class

This Creole Class serves up a comforting bisque alongside a hearty Creole dish, straight from the heart of New Orleans! Come learn to cook some of our locals' favorite recipes and bring a taste of the Big Easy to your kitchen.

  • Corn and Crab Bisque

  • Shrimp Creole

  • Pecan Pralines
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Vegetarian Class

Join our Vegetarian class with a Cajun twist, cher! These flavor-packed recipes have been beloved by locals for generations. Come on in and learn the secrets to creating dishes that’ll make your taste buds dance.

  • Gumbo Z’Herbes

  • Corn Maque Choux

  • Pecan Praline Bread Pudding with a Salted Caramel sauce
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Brunch Class

Sunday Brunch is a cherished tradition in New Orleans! Around here, we like to sleep in a bit, so our first meal on Sundays is a delightful mix of breakfast and lunch—always paired with a good ol’ cocktail, of course.

Join us to learn how to whip up local staple dishes and experience the magic of New Orleans brunch culture. It’s the perfect way to kick back, cook, and savor the good times.

  • New Orleans Style Shrimp and Grits

  • Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce over a Crab Cake

  • Praline bacon (Pig Candy)

Brunch Class only: Champagne, Mimosas, Bloody Mary’s are served with the Brunch Class only.

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Why Learning to Cook the Right Way Matters?

Food is the heart of New Orleans. It tells a story of culture, history, and tradition. But making these famous dishes the right way requires skill, technique, and passion. That’s where our cooking lessons in New Orleans come in!


At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, we teach you how to create authentic Creole and Cajun dishes using the same methods passed down for generations. You’ll learn how to build deep, rich flavors using the best ingredients—so you can cook like a true local.


A NOLA cooking class isn’t just about food; it’s about connecting with history, sharing a fun experience, and mastering timeless recipes. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next dinner party or just love exploring new flavors, our culinary classes in New Orleans are the perfect way to do it.

What Our Customers Say

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Types of Cooking Classes We Offer

At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, we offer a variety of hands-on culinary classes in New Orleans, designed to give you an authentic taste of local flavors. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, our expert chefs will guide you through each dish with step-by-step instructions. From mastering a classic roux to creating delicious Creole and Cajun specialties, there’s a New Orleans cooking class for everyone.


Relax, meet fellow food lovers, and dive headfirst into the bold flavors of Cajun and Creole cooking. Put on your apron and learn professional tips, secret seasonings, and the art of crafting Louisiana’s most iconic dishes. With five flavorful menus to choose from—like jambalaya, gumbo, beignets, and more—there’s something for every taste!


Whip up mouthwatering meals, share hearty laughs, and make memories in a hands-on class that truly captures the soul of New Orleans. Choose from our unique offerings and dive into the rich culinary traditions that make New Orleans cookery one of a kind!

NEW: Throw in the Drinks!

Add a Champagne Bar or a Bloody Mary Bar to any class. Serves 4-6 people for $250.

  • Champagne Bar

    • 3 bottles of champagne, orange juice, an assortment of liquors and fruits.
    • Kir Royale is a French cocktail consisting of crème de cassis topped with champagne.
    • Mimosa is a combination of orange juice and champagne
    • New Orleans French 75 blends cognac, a simple syrup and fresh lemon, topped with champagne

      Serves 4-6 People $250.00 - Add on at Checkout
  • Bloody Mary Bar

    • Liter bottle of Tito’s vodka, assortment of tomato juices, pickled items, hot sauces and Worcestershire sauce
    • GARNISHES - lemons, limes, celery, Kosher pickle spears, pickled okra, pickled beans, stuffed olives, pepperoncinis, jalapeños, peppadews or other peppers, marinated pearl onions
    • SEASONINGS - celery salt, freshly ground black pepper
    • HOT SAUCES - Tabasco sauce, Cholula, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, Louisiana hot sauce, Sriracha, Worcestershire sauce, pickle juice, olive brine

      Serves 4-6 People $250.00 - Add on at Checkout

Benefits of Our Cooking Classes

Learning to cook at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is more than just following a recipe—it’s an experience! Our cooking lessons in New Orleans are designed to be fun, engaging, and educational, so you walk away with skills that last a lifetime.

  • Hands On Learning

    Our classes aren’t just demonstrations—you’ll be actively cooking every step of the way. With hands-on guidance from expert chefs, you'll master techniques like making the perfect roux, seasoning like a pro, and balancing flavors for authentic New Orleans cookery. This immersive experience helps you build confidence in the kitchen while creating mouthwatering dishes.

  • Authentic New Orleans Cusine

    Nothing beats the taste of true New Orleans cooking. Our classes focus on traditional Creole and Cajun recipes, ensuring that you learn to prepare classic dishes just as they’re meant to be made. We use fresh, local ingredients and time-honored techniques so you can recreate these flavors at home.

  • Fun & Engaging Atmosphere

    Cooking is best when it’s shared! Our culinary classes in New Orleans offer a relaxed, social environment where you can cook alongside fellow food lovers. Whether you’re taking a New Orleans cooking class with friends, family, or solo, you’ll enjoy a lively, welcoming setting that makes the experience unforgettable.

Why Choose The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?

When it comes to cooking lessons in New Orleans, not all experiences are created equal. At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, we don’t just teach recipes—we immerse you in the rich history and culture of New Orleans cookery. Our hands-on approach ensures that you’re not just watching but actively cooking, tasting, and learning in a fun, engaging environment.


Our culinary classes in New Orleans cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned home chefs. With small class sizes, expert guidance, and an emphasis on traditional Creole and Cajun cuisine, you’ll walk away with the skills to recreate these incredible dishes at home. Whether you’re a local looking to refine your cooking techniques or a visitor wanting to experience an authentic NOLA cooking class, we offer an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Expert Chefs with Real-World Experience

At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, you’ll learn from seasoned chefs who are passionate about New Orleans cookery. They bring years of experience from top kitchens, offering insider tips and techniques that make all the difference.


Our chefs don’t just teach—they inspire. They’ll guide you through every step, from crafting a perfect roux to balancing spices for authentic Creole and Cajun flavors. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll gain practical, real-world cooking skills that you can use for a lifetime.

Small, Personalized Classes

Unlike large, crowded culinary schools in New Orleans, we keep our class sizes small to ensure a personalized, hands-on experience. This means you get direct guidance, one-on-one interaction with our chefs, and a more immersive learning environment.


With a NOLA cooking class at our school, you won’t just watch a demonstration—you’ll actively participate, ask questions, and refine your skills. Our intimate setting allows for deeper learning, making it easier to master New Orleans cooking techniques.

Authentic Cooking Environment

Cooking in New Orleans is more than just preparing food—it’s a celebration. At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, we recreate that vibrant, welcoming atmosphere in every class. You’ll cook in a traditional setting with professional equipment, using fresh, local ingredients to ensure authenticity.


We focus on true New Orleans cookery, teaching the time-honored methods that make Creole and Cajun dishes so unique. Whether you’re stirring a gumbo pot, flipping beignets, or blending bold spices, you’ll experience the real essence of New Orleans culinary school life.

Rated Among the Best in New Orleans

Our school consistently receives top ratings for its cooking lessons in New Orleans, and it’s easy to see why. We offer an interactive, fun, and educational experience that leaves guests raving.


From tourists seeking an authentic taste of New Orleans cookery to locals wanting to sharpen their skills, our classes bring people together through food. With outstanding reviews and repeat visitors, we’re proud to be recognized as a top culinary school in New Orleans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Cooking Classes

Do I need prior cooking experience to join a class?

Not at all! Our New Orleans cooking class is designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cooks. Our chefs provide step-by-step guidance, making it easy for anyone to follow along and create delicious New Orleans cookery dishes. Just bring your enthusiasm, and we’ll handle the rest!

What should I bring to the cooking class?

You don’t need to bring anything—just yourself! We provide all the ingredients, cooking tools, and aprons. Our culinary classes in New Orleans are completely hands-on, so come ready to cook, learn, and have fun. Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended for your safety.

Can I bring my own alcohol to the class?

Yes! Our classes are BYOB-friendly, meaning you can bring your favorite wine, beer, or spirits to enjoy while you cook. We also offer add-ons like our Champagne Bar and Bloody Mary Bar to enhance your experience. Cooking is always better with a drink in hand!

Are vegetarian or dietary accommodations available?

Absolutely! We offer a Vegetarian Class and can adjust recipes for dietary restrictions with advance notice. Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or have specific allergies, our chefs will work with you to ensure you still enjoy an authentic NOLA cooking class experience.

How long do the classes last?

Our hands-on cooking lessons in New Orleans typically last between 2.5 to 3 hours. This allows plenty of time to learn techniques, cook, and enjoy your meal. The experience is relaxed and immersive, so you never feel rushed while mastering the art of New Orleans cookery.