Jazzing Up Brunch New Orleans-Style

(Family Features) Much like Mardi Gras, beignets and jazz music, brunch is a true New Orleans tradition. But you don't have to live in the Big Easy to enjoy the big taste of New Orleans-Style food, especially as home-hosted brunches have been surging in popularity. When the crisp fall weather blows in this year, warm things up with a fun and flavorful mid-day feast for friends and family.

With home chefs looking for more intimate and casual settings to enjoy a good meal, Zatarain's, the brand that's been serving up New Orleans-Style food for over 120 years, makes it easy to bring brunch back to its roots: the home kitchen.

Tired of the same standard brunch fare? Add a little jazz to your daylight soiree with authentic and original dishes sure to spice up the occasion. Creole Cheddar Cheese Corn Muffins and Fried Green Tomatoes with Crab and Remoulade Sauce are sure crowd pleasers. Finish off the meal with a sweet and satisfying Bananas Foster Bread Pudding with Rum Butter Sauce, a true New Orleans favorite. This Southern spin on brunch is a fresh and fun way to entertain guests at home.

For more information on how to enjoy brunch like a true New Orleanian, visit www.facebook.com/zatarains. Check out more recipes, as well as a fun app sure to jazz up any Facebook page.

Zatarain's Jambalaya Breakfast Casserole

Makes 16 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour

• 1 package Zatarain's Jambalaya Mix
• 1 pound cooked ham, coarsely chopped
• 8 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

1. Prepare Jambalaya Mix as directed on package, using ham in place of the smoked sausage.
2. Preheat oven to 350° F. Mix eggs and half-and-half in large bowl until well mixed. Add cheese, bell pepper and onions; mix until well blended. Set aside. Spread rice mixture evenly in bottom of greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Pour egg mixture over top.
3. Bake 30 minutes or until eggs are set. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Source: Zatarain's