Private New Orleans Cajun Cooking Class with a Local Courtland

A Unique Taste of New Orleans: Private Cajun Cooking with Courtland

Imagine stepping into a local’s home in a peaceful residential neighborhood of New Orleans. For about three hours, you’ll get to roll up your sleeves and learn the secrets of Cajun cuisine from a passionate host named Courtland. For just $64 per person, this private experience offers a chance to cook authentic, seasonal dishes while soaking up the friendly atmosphere of a real New Orleans neighborhood — away from tourist crowds.

What we love most about this experience is the personal touch Courtland brings. His deep Cajun French roots shine through every story, technique, and ingredient he shares. The fact that he cooks from his own garden and family heirloom cookware makes this feel less like a class and more like a visit with a friend who just happens to be a master chef. Plus, sharing a meal with your host at the end of the class offers a delicious sense of community.

The only thing to consider is the timing — as this experience is booked on average 76 days in advance, you’ll want to plan ahead to secure your preferred date. It suits travelers who genuinely crave an authentic, hands-on insight into Cajun cuisine and culture, particularly those who like personalized experiences and engaging conversations.

This experience made our article of Which New Orleans Workshops & Classes To Choose? We Rank The 16 Best.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn Cajun cooking directly from a local in his home.
• Personalized Class: Private session tailored to your group with flexible meal options.
• Cultural Insight: Gain stories and context about Louisiana’s culinary traditions.
• Seasonal & Fresh: Ingredients often come from the host’s garden or local markets.
• Delicious Meal: Finish by sharing a freshly cooked, seasonal Cajun meal.
• Flexible Timing: Choose between a lunch or dinner class to suit your schedule.

Exploring the Cajun Cooking Class in Depth

What Is It Really Like to Cook Cajun with Courtland?

From the moment you arrive at Homedale Street, you’ll feel welcomed by Courtland’s friendly demeanor and the vibrant vibe of his neighborhood. His home garden, bursting with fresh vegetables, sets the stage for an experience rooted in local ingredients. As you sip a refreshing beverage, Courtland shares stories of growing up in Louisiana and his family’s legendary Cajun parties. These stories aren’t just filler—they add genuine context that makes the cooking process more meaningful.

The kitchen is a cozy yet well-equipped space, where you’ll cook three authentic dishes over approximately 1.5 hours. Courtland employs a hands-on approach, encouraging you to taste, smell, and adjust as you go. He emphasizes that food is about balance, and that making adjustments based on your palate is encouraged. This is not a typical professional cooking class where you follow strict recipes; it’s more like cooking with a friend who wants to share the secrets behind his family’s recipes.

What You’ll Cook and Eat

Depending on the season and availability, your menu might feature boudin balls, jambalaya, gumbo, étouffée, or blackened fish. The focus is on authenticity—Courtland explains the differences between Cajun and Creole cuisine, helping you understand what makes these dishes special. For side dishes, he often uses fresh vegetables from his garden, adding to the sense of local flavor.

Once the cooking is complete, you’ll sit down at a table to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The meal is complemented with beer or wine, enhancing the communal aspect of the experience. As one reviewer states, the meal is “fresh, seasonal, and cooked with love,” making it a memorable way to end your time together.

What Else Makes This Experience Stand Out?

The private nature of this class is a significant advantage. It ensures personalized attention and space for questions, plus the flexibility to accommodate dietary requests like vegetarian, gluten-free, or lactose-free options. Courtland’s warm personality and willingness to share stories make the experience more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a cultural exchange.

The Authenticity Factor

Many travelers appreciate that this isn’t a commercial, large-group class. Instead, you get to see a homeowner’s perspective, cook with local ingredients, and learn from someone who genuinely loves sharing his heritage. A reviewer describes it as a “top chef experience,” emphasizing how much thought and care Courtland puts into each detail—right down to the family heirloom cookware.

Practicalities and Value

At $64 per person, this class offers excellent value for a personalized cultural experience. It’s more than just learning a recipe; it’s about understanding the place, people, and traditions behind the food. The fact that it’s booked an average of 76 days in advance suggests it’s popular among those seeking an authentic, intimate encounter with New Orleans cuisine.

The 3-hour duration strikes a perfect balance: enough time to learn, cook, and enjoy, without feeling rushed. Plus, with the option of a lunch or dinner class, you can choose what works best for your itinerary.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers who want more than just a restaurant meal. If you’re interested in cultural storytelling, enjoy hands-on activities, or simply want to meet a local who shares your passion for good food, this is ideal. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate the personal touch and want to take home a genuine taste of Louisiana.

Travelers seeking a family-friendly activity or an off-the-beaten-path experience in New Orleans will find this a highlight. If you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, the private aspect means you can tailor the experience to your interests and dietary needs.

Summary

This private Cajun cooking class offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from a local in a relaxed, home setting. It’s about more than just recipes—it’s about culture, history, and community. The chance to cook with fresh ingredients, hear personal stories, and then share a delicious meal makes this experience truly special.

While it requires planning ahead, the value of genuine connection and authentic cuisine makes it well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about Cajun flavors, Courtland’s kitchen promises a memorable taste of New Orleans life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, allowing for personalized instruction and interaction.

How long does the class last?
The cooking part lasts about 1.5 hours, with the entire experience around 3 hours including setting, cooking, and dining.

Can I choose between lunch and dinner?
Yes, you can choose a lunchtime or dinner class, depending on your schedule.

What is included in the price?
The price includes instruction, ingredients, a meal featuring Cajun dishes, and beer or wine.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, Courtland is happy to accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, or lactose-free diets upon request.

Where does the experience take place?
It begins at 305 Homedale St, New Orleans, and ends back at the same location.

What makes this experience different from a commercial cooking class?
This isn’t a large-group or commercial class; it’s a personal visit into a local’s home, emphasizing authentic ingredients and storytelling.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Since it’s private, it’s designed for your party, so no minimum beyond your booking.

Do I need to bring anything?
No additional items are necessary; everything needed is provided by Courtland.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book at least 76 days in advance, as the experience is quite popular.

This private Cajun cooking class in New Orleans is more than a lesson — it’s a chance to connect, learn, and feast on genuine Louisiana flavors in a warm, welcoming environment. Perfect for those who want to truly taste the city’s soul, it offers a memorable, personalized experience that highlights the best of local culture and cuisine.