29 Easter Meal Prep Recipes For A Hassle-Free Day
Easter’s meant for awkward family stories, egg hunts, and pretending you didn’t eat candy for breakfast—not cooking for hours. That’s where these 29 pre-planned ideas step in to save the day. With things ready ahead of time, the only thing you’ll need to juggle is the seating chart and that one cousin who won’t eat anything green.

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

There’s something comforting about a good biscuit, especially Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits that taste just like the real thing. These warm, fluffy biscuits have a special charm that makes any meal feel special. They pair well with almost anything, making them a versatile addition to your Easter table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

For those who love a sweet treat, Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is a dream come true. It’s creamy and rich, bringing together two classic flavors in a way that’s hard to resist. This dessert is perfect for preparing ahead, so you can enjoy the day without a fuss. Trust me, it’s always a hit and leaves everyone with big smiles.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie
Antipasto Salad

A refreshing Antipasto Salad can really kick off your Easter meal with a bang. It’s a colorful mix that feels hearty and fresh, perfect as a starter or side dish. The best part is that it comes together quickly and can be made in advance. You’ll love how easy it is to serve, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the company.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

When you’re in need of a side that’s both comforting and healthy, Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a great choice. It brings a lovely creaminess to the table without being too heavy. This casserole can be prepped ahead of time, making it a convenient option for a hassle-free day. You’re going to appreciate how it rounds out the meal nicely.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Carrot Cake

Nothing says Easter quite like a delicious Carrot Cake. It’s sweet, moist, and always a crowd favorite, especially when topped with a rich icing. Prepare it a day before, so you have one less thing to worry about. This cake not only tastes amazing but also adds a festive touch to the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake
Green Bean Casserole

Every family gathering could use a classic Green Bean Casserole. This dish is both comforting and familiar, loved by kids and adults alike. Whip it up in advance and simply heat before serving. It simplifies your day, letting you focus on enjoying the moment with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole
Pecan Pie Cobbler

If you’re in the mood for something sweet and traditional, Pecan Pie Cobbler hits the spot. It’s got a warm, gooey filling with a crispy topping that feels just right. Making it ahead means there’s no last-minute rush. This dessert’s rich flavor makes it a highlight of any meal.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler
Corn Casserole

Simple and crowd-pleasing, Corn Casserole can be a perfect addition to your meal. Its creamy texture and hint of sweetness make it a beautiful side dish. Prepare it a day ahead so you can focus on other things. It’s easy to serve and always goes quickly.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole
German Chocolate Cake

Few desserts bring joy like German Chocolate Cake. It’s layered, rich, and topped with a sweet coconut-pecan frosting that everyone adores. Making it ahead of time helps you manage your day better. This cake is a guaranteed hit and will surely be remembered.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake
Potato Casserole

A hearty Potato Casserole is a great way to ensure everyone’s satisfied. It’s creamy, filling, and pairs wonderfully with almost all main dishes. Assemble it before the big day for an effortless side. This dish is like a warm hug during the holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

For a fun appetizer, try Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. These bite-sized treats pack a punch with their savory and smoky flavor. They can be made ahead and quickly reheated when it’s time to serve. They’re always a hit and bring a touch of whimsy to the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Combining two favorites, Pecan Pie Cheesecake is truly irresistible. It’s rich, creamy, and topped with a crunchy pecan layer that stands out. Prepare this ahead, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to go. It’s a blend of flavors that’s sure to leave an impression.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Kick off Easter morning with a Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. It’s a hearty and filling way to start the day, packed with flavor. Prep everything the night before for an easy morning. This casserole makes breakfast a breeze, giving you a great way to begin your day.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Dauphinoise Potatoes

Upgrade your meal with Dauphinoise Potatoes. They’re creamy, layered, and absolutely delicious, adding a touch of elegance to the table. Prepare it ahead of time for easy serving on the day. These potatoes are a special treat that feel both fancy and homey.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes
Sourdough Bagels

Start your meal with freshly made Sourdough Bagels. They have a distinct tangy flavor and chewy texture that’s hard to beat. Make them in advance to have more time with your guests. These bagels are perfect for a relaxed meal starter.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels
Broccoli Casserole

For a healthier side that doesn’t skimp on flavor, go with Broccoli Casserole. It’s creamy and cheesy but still brings the goodness of broccoli to the table. This can be prepared in advance, saving you from last-minute stress. It’s a dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Funeral Potatoes

Comfort food at its best, Funeral Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and crispy on top. They’re always a hit at gatherings and can easily be made ahead. Just heat them up and serve. These potatoes are always a welcome addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Easy Banana Pudding

For a sweet and creamy dessert, try Easy Banana Pudding. It’s light, fluffy, and has that nostalgic appeal that’s just right for family gatherings. Make it the day before so it’s ready to go. This pudding is a simple way to add something special to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Spice things up with Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. They’re perfect for a snack or a fun appetizer, loaded with flavor. Prepare them ahead and bake them when needed. These rolls are always a fun and tasty choice.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls
Mac and Cheese

There’s a reason Mac and Cheese is an all-time favorite, and it’s right at home at your table for a relaxed, hearty dish that connects everyone. It’s an invitation to enjoy that timeless goodness loved by all ages, assuring big smiles without extra fuss. You’ll find this classic always finds a spot and a fan, whether you’ve got lots of little kids or a room full of guests.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Mississippi Mud Pie

End your meal on a high note with Mississippi Mud Pie. It’s rich, chocolatey, and has that wow factor that desserts should have. Make it ahead for an easy finish to your meal. This pie is a decadent treat that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Potato Salad

No gathering is complete without Potato Salad. It’s cool, creamy, and a great side dish that goes with almost everything. Make it the day before, so it’s chilled and ready. This salad is a reliable favorite for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad
Rhubarb Crisp

When you want something that combines sweet and tart in just the right way, Rhubarb Crisp might just be your answer. Everyone finds this dessert so approachable with its familiar, homey feel that’s simple yet fulfilling. As a lighter end to meals, it brings comfort without being overbearing or fussy.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Crisp
Hash Browns

If you’re serving breakfast or brunch, Hash Browns are a must. They’re crispy, golden, and perfect with any morning spread. Make them in advance to save time. These hash browns will surely be a hit at breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Treat your guests to Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls. They’re sweet, spiced just right, and have that tangy sourdough kick. Prep them the day before and bake them when you’re ready. These rolls are a fantastic way to start the day.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Peanut Butter Cake

With Peanut Butter Cake, dessert finds its rightful place on the table with a friendly nod to nutty pleasures so loved by friends and family. Offering a moist delight that keeps everyone reaching for more. The layers bring warmth without overcomplicating your meal planning, inviting everyone to indulge and chat over a slice or two.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake
Dinner Rolls

Dinner Rolls are like that comforting friend who’s always welcome at any meal, offering up buttery warmth in easygoing bites everyone can enjoy. Share them without fuss—we both know gatherings are about the moments spent together. Let these rolls be the little handle you need on gathering joy, bringing everyone together as meals unfold.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Apple Crisp

Nothing says cozy quite like Apple Crisp, where fruity sweetness meets golden crunch to create a dessert that’s familiar and effortless. Serve it warm and watch as everyone’s faces melt into comfort and appreciation for its straightforward charm. It’s all about sharing those nostalgic evenings with a smile, easily enjoyed alongside good company.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp
Easy Meatloaf Recipe

For a hearty main dish, you can’t go wrong with Easy Meatloaf Recipe. It’s flavorful and holds together well, making it a dependable crowd-pleaser. Make it ahead for the best results. This meatloaf is sure to make everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
