29 Easter Recipes To Make Sure Your Holiday Meal Is Anything But Basic

Easter dinner doesn’t have to be the same lineup every year. These 29 Easter recipes bring new ideas that won’t make grandma raise an eyebrow. Whether you’re feeding five or fifteen, there’s something here that keeps things interesting. No one will miss the boring stuff they politely avoided last year.

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Leg of Lamb

Two roasted lamb shanks on a plate with rosemary and caramelized onions, with stacked plates in the background.
Leg of Lamb. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want to impress your guests without too much hassle, consider Leg of Lamb as your main course. It’s a classic choice that fits wonderfully into a festive Easter meal. The preparation can be as simple or as intricate as you like, and it always looks impressive on the table. It’s sure to be a hit, so maybe cook a bit extra for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Leg of Lamb

Peach Cobbler

A close-up of a slice of peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate.
Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nothing rounds off a meal like a traditional Peach Cobbler. It’s easy to throw together, and you can serve it up hot with some ice cream or just as it is. This dessert brings a sweet touch to your holiday eats. Your friends and family will probably ask you for the recipe, so be prepared to share!
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler

Potato Soup

Close-up of a bowl of creamy soup topped with grilled bacon pieces and chopped parsley.
Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a comforting start to your Easter meal, Potato Soup is a go-to. It warms everyone up and is incredibly filling and hearty. Even the pickiest eaters can’t say no to a bowl. Plus, it’s perfect for a large gathering, as it can be made in big batches with little fuss.
Get the Recipe: Potato Soup

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Kick off your Easter spread with a refreshing Caprese Appetizer. This dish is not only simple to assemble but also adds a splash of color to your table. It’s light enough to stimulate the appetite without being too filling. Perfect for nibbling as everyone settles in and catches up.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Hot Cross Buns

A tray of freshly baked hot cross buns with golden brown tops and a soft, fluffy texture. One bun is partially broken to show its interior.
Hot Cross Buns. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hot Cross Buns are practically mandatory for an Easter meal. They are a delicious way to start off the morning of the celebration or served as part of brunch. The aroma of these buns alone can set the festive mood. Plus, they pair nicely with both coffee and tea.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cross Buns

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With Homemade Lasagna, you can’t go wrong for an Easter feast centerpiece. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together over layers of rich goodness. The process is a bit involved, but the result is well worth it. You’ll end up with a comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Cherry Cheesecake

A slice of cherry cheesecake on a plate.
Cherry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re after something sweet, Cherry Cheesecake is a classic choice. Just a few bites into its creamy, indulgent layers, and everyone will be hooked. This dessert is a foolproof option for any holiday meal. Plus, it looks impressive without needing any fancy decorations.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Honeycrisp Salad is a fresh option that balances out typically hearty holiday meals. It’s crisp, refreshing, and brings a nice contrast to rich dishes. This salad easily complements any main dish, adding a burst of freshness. It’s simple to toss together last minute.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a side that’s sure to impress, try Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. This dish is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s a great alternative for those looking for lighter options without losing out on taste. A sure hit at any table, it pairs wonderfully with any protein.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Peanut Butter Brownies

A stack of rich peanut butter brownies with a spoonful of creamy peanut butter on the side.
Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Peanut Butter Brownies are a must if you’re in the mood for a rich dessert. These squares are gooey, filled with nutty goodness, and hard to resist. They make a great end to any meal or can be a hit at a holiday snack table. Whether warm or cool, they’re always a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easter isn’t complete without Ham and Cheese Sliders. They’re easy to make, and you can serve them up in no time. Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of their tasty, fulfilling bite. They’re ideal for mixing up the holiday menu with something slightly different yet familiar.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Pecan Pie Cobbler

Pecan Pie Cobbler. Photo Credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes
Pecan Pie Cobbler. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re aiming to impress with a twist on a classic, Pecan Pie Cobbler won’t disappoint. Bringing the heartiness of cobbler and the traditional nutty crunch everyone loves, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make but packs a punch in the satisfaction department. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one serving.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving something with a bit of a kick? It’s all about balance with Hot Honey Chicken Salad, where the heat meets cool, crisp greens. Perfect for a refreshing yet bold statement on your Easter table. You’ll want to have the recipe handy because your guests will definitely be asking.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Carrot Cake

Close-up of sliced carrot cake loaf with visible nuts and raisins on a parchment paper, topped with a light icing drizzle.
Carrot Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s not just about the bunny when it comes to carrots on Easter. This classic cake is moist, rich, and a must-have for any dessert spread. Carrot Cake is an enduring favorite that never goes out of style. Slice it up, and watch it disappear before the day’s over.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These tidy little tarts combine classic Italian tastes in a neat package. Break out this appetizer, and you’ll set the bar high for the main course. Caprese Pesto Tarts are easy to pass around, and even easier to enjoy. Perfect for those who love a touch of elegance with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A slice of pineapple cake topped with fresh raspberries on a white surface.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Overturn your notion of typical desserts with Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Bold in presentation and a sure winner for those who love a fruity punch. It’s a nostalgic nod with a modern appeal that might just become a new tradition. Plus, who can resist that caramelized fruit topping?
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

What’s a holiday meal without a stand-up side dish? The classic Potato Salad has your back. It pairs well with everything and can be whipped up in a snap. Not too heavy or too light, it’s like the Goldilocks of side dishes. You can make it ahead, stash it in the fridge, and boom—one less thing to stress about.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Focaccia Bread

Slices of focaccia bread topped with rosemary and flaky salt, arranged on brown parchment paper.
Focaccia Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple ingredients can make for an extraordinary addition to your meal. Freshly baked, the aroma itself is a welcome invitation to dig in. Focaccia Bread is a versatile player that complements a range of dishes. Expect it to be one of the first things to vanish from the table.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Don’t be fooled by the size; Sausage Balls pack a wallop of taste. They’re the perfect nibble to tide everyone over until the main event. Popping them in your mouth one after another is too easy. Serve them up and watch them be the topic of conversation.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Loaded Potato Skins

Close-up of loaded potato skins topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and sliced green onions on a white background.
Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Loaded Potato Skins aren’t your average spuds. Filled with all the good stuff, they’re a mini-meal within themselves. Super satisfying and just the right amount of indulgence. Get ready for them to be in high demand—people will fight over the last one, so maybe make a double batch.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy.
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Talk about a conversation starter—Smoky Bacon Pig Shots will get everyone talking. A smoky, meaty treat that’s a far cry from your standard appetizer. They’ve got a kick of flavor that will make everyone reach for more. Just watch as they become the star of the show.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Rhubarb Pie

Slice of strawberry pie on a plate with two black spoons beside it.
Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Switch it up from the usual suspects with a slice of something different. Rhubarb Pie has a unique tartness that’s surprisingly refreshing. It’s like a hidden gem that only surfaces for special occasions. Break this out for an unexpected dessert win.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Pie

Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Close-up of a dish featuring glazed carrots garnished with chopped herbs, served in a white bowl.
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Here’s a side that brings out the best in one of the most understated veggies. With a sweet glaze, these carrots transform into a side that’s anything but ordinary. Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe just might outshine some of the more expected dishes. Plus, they add a pop of color that’s bound to brighten any plate.
Get the Recipe: Easy Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Start off the meal with a soup that sets the tone for what’s to come. Warm and comforting, it’s like a friendly welcome for everyone’s palate. It’s remarkably simple, but that’s where its brilliance lies. A bowl of Leek and Potato Soup, and your guests will feel right at home.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Chicken Casserole is the definition of homey comfort. A staple that’s both filling and heartwarming. It hits all the right notes for a family gathering. Prepare for everyone to ask for seconds—and probably the recipe, too.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Close-up of a freshly baked muffin topped with chocolate chips and oats, wrapped in a paper liner. A blurred drink and other baked goods are visible in the background.
Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s something for those with a sweet tooth that still screams ‘homemade’. Brunch or as a sweet closer to your meal, it’s hard to go wrong here. Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins strike the perfect balance between fruit and chocolate. And they’re just as great for grabbing on the go during Easter fun.
Get the Recipe: Moist Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest dishes that bring the most comfort. Mac and Cheese is a creamy, dreamy addition that everyone from kids to grandparents will dig into. Talk about a feel-good classic that never disappoints. Make a big batch—it’ll get devoured.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Salmon Deviled Eggs

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background.
Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a little pizzazz to a familiar favorite. Salmon Deviled Eggs are a chic twist on the humble egg that’ll make folks say ‘wow’. A hint of the sea gives it that special touch. Be the one who brought that memorable dish to the table.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and garnished with fresh thyme and cracked black pepper.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

What can I say that hasn’t been said about Mashed Potatoes? They’re the ultimate comfort side, smooth and oh so versatile. Get them just right, and they pretty much steal the show. There’s a reason they’re a staple at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

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.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *