Your Future Self Will Thank You 29 Easter Recipes to Prep Now

Easter is coming, and nobody wants to be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is having fun. These 29 recipes make prep easy, so you can actually enjoy the day. Get everything ready now, then sit back and watch everyone think you worked harder than you did. Future you will be grateful, and present you will look like a genius.

Close-up of fluffy cheddar biscuits topped with herbs on a metal tray, with leafy greens in the background.
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Close-up of a tater tot breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped herbs.
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole will be the star of your brunch. It’s ideal for making the night before, so you’re not scrambling in the kitchen on Easter morning. Just toss it in the oven and get ready to enjoy the day. You’ll impress everyone with how effortlessly you’ve managed the morning’s feast.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Close-up of cinnamon swirl bread slices, showcasing a spiral pattern in the texture.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Wake up your household on Easter morning with Cinnamon Swirl Bread. Baking it ahead means one less thing to do and more time to enjoy with family. It pairs beautifully with morning coffee or tea. Your home will be filled with the inviting aroma of cinnamon, making the holiday start perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Swirl Bread

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.

Leek and Potato Soup is the perfect start to your Easter meal. Make it in advance to ease your kitchen duties on the big day. Everyone will be relaxed, including you, as the meal begins seamlessly. It’s a simple, yet comforting dish that sets the tone for a memorable Easter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Coconut Fudge

A stack of white, square-shaped fudge pieces with a creamy texture are arranged on a plate, some with coconut flakes on top.
Coconut Fudge. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those with a sweet tooth, Coconut Fudge is a must-have Easter treat. Prepare it in advance for a hassle-free dessert option. It’s easy to make, and by Easter Sunday, you’ll have a sweet treat ready to go. Everyone will be impressed by this homemade addition to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Fudge

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 are sure to be a hit for Easter snacking. They’re perfect for preparing ahead of time and simply reheating when it’s time to serve. Expect smiles all around as these come out of the kitchen. They’re a fun and tasty addition to any holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Ease into your Easter meal with French Onion Soup. Prepare ahead to minimize stress, focusing on just the final touches on the day. It’s a simple dish with big payoff – warm, comforting, and utterly delicious. You’ll get to enjoy your guests’ company instead of being tied to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

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.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake will be the centerpiece of your dessert table. This make-ahead recipe not only tastes great but also looks fantastic. When you unveil this cake on Easter, expect a round of applause. It’s an easy choice that adds a wow factor to your holiday meal.
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.

This salad is a classic side that no Easter dinner should be without. Making it ahead of time is a smart move, ensuring you have a delicious, ready-to-go dish. Potato Salad complements any main course seamlessly. Effortlessly serve it up, and watch it disappear – it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

German Chocolate Cake

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top.
German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Make an unforgettable impression with German Chocolate Cake. This ahead-of-time delight ensures you’re ready for Easter without any last-minute baking stress. It’s rich, satisfying, and bound to be a hit. Giving yourself a pat on the back for this choice is totally allowed.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

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.

For a no-fuss Easter treat, Sausage Balls are your go-to. Prepare in advance for an easy, delicious snack that’s perfect any time of day. By the time Easter rolls around, you’ll be set with a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Everyone will be asking you for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

A close-up of a savory meatloaf slice topped with a glossy sauce. The hearty meatloaf reveals visible chunks of vegetables like carrots and celery.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

An Easy Meatloaf Recipe promises a comforting and delicious Easter dinner centerpiece. Prep it early, and let your oven do the heavy lifting on the day of. Enjoy the praise as your family digs into this classic dish. And yes, the sandwich possibilities with any leftovers are almost too good to be true.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Nothing says Easter dinner like homemade Dinner Rolls. Make them in advance to ensure your spread includes these soft, irresistible bread delights. They pair perfectly with everything on the table. It’s the kind of touch that makes the meal truly special.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Coffee Cake

Close-up of eight square pieces of crumb cake with a textured, crumbly topping.
Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Coffee Cake is an excellent choice for an easy-going Easter morning. Bake it before the big day, and you’re all set for a relaxed breakfast. Your guests will enjoy every slice, and you’ll enjoy the stress-free morning. It’s the perfect match for your morning coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake

Funeral Potatoes

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.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add some comfort to your Easter with Funeral Potatoes. Preparing this dish in advance ensures a creamy, cheesy side that’s hard to beat. It’s likely to become a requested favorite for every holiday meal. Who knew something so easy could taste so good?
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Easy Banana Pudding

Banana pudding in a bowl with whipped cream and bananas.
Easy Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Easy Banana Pudding is a dreamy way to end your Easter feast. Make it ahead of time for a dessert that’s ready to enjoy when you are. Each spoonful is a creamy delight that’s bound to be a hit. You’ll be the hero of the holiday with this sweet treat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Shortbread Cookies

Close-up view of a pile of Shortbread Cookies with visible small holes on the surface.
Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Get ahead of the game with Shortbread Cookies. These are a breeze to prepare and store like a champ. They pair perfectly with your morning cuppa on Easter. And when the holiday comes, you’ll thank yourself for the foresight.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Make Italian Sliders in advance for an effortless Easter feast. They’re the perfect grab-and-go option for a laid-back celebration. Heat ’em up when you’re ready to eat, and watch them disappear in a flash. They truly are a game-changer for hosting.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

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.

Preparing Smoky Bacon Pig Shots before Easter means you’ve got one less thing to worry about. They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and let’s be honest, bacon makes everything better. You can count on these for a memorable Easter munch. And they’re just as good reheated.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Egg Bites

Egg Bites on a board with a little parsley on top.
Egg Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Egg Bites are ideal for prepping ahead of time. They reheat like a dream, which means more time for you to enjoy the festivity. Serve them up on Easter morning and watch them vanish. They’re the secret weapon for a stress-free holiday brunch.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

A close-up of a sourdough cinnamon roll topped with creamy icing and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a plate.
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There’s nothing like the smell of Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls baking on Easter morning. Prepare them in advance, and enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste with minimal effort. They’re bound to become a new Easter tradition. Seriously, your house will smell amazing.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

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.

Early prep of Mac and Cheese sets you up for a relaxing Easter. It’s the ultimate comfort dish that has everyone coming back for more. Just reheat and serve—it’s that straightforward. Creamy, cheesy, and always a crowd-pleaser, it pairs perfectly with any feast. It’s a must-have on your Easter menu.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Hash Browns

Hash Browns on a white plate with an egg and avocado.
Hash Browns. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for an easy win, Hash Browns are it. Prep them ahead, then crisp to perfection on Easter. They’re a versatile side that pairs well with nearly everything, from eggs to roasts. Plus, who doesn’t love a perfectly crispy potato with minimal effort?
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Peanut Butter Cake

Close-up of frosted square cake pieces with a light brown crust on parchment paper.
Peanut Butter Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Peanut Butter Cake is an Easter dessert that wins hearts. Bake it beforehand and tick one thing off your final to-do list. It’s the sort of treat people swoon over, with its rich, nutty flavor and irresistible texture. Get ready for everyone asking for your recipe—and maybe even plotting ways to sneak an extra slice.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These bars bring a spark of sunshine to the Easter table with minimal effort. Lemon Bars can be made early, freeing up your holiday for fun, not fuss. Slice and serve for a dessert that’s as refreshing as it is sweet. Every bite is a little celebration in itself.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole being served.
Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With Potato Casserole, you’ve got a side dish that feeds the soul. Prep it in advance and enjoy a hearty, fuss-free dish come Easter. It’s always a hit and leaves guests happy and satisfied. A true no-brainer for the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These cookies can be made well before the Easter rush, so you’re not scrambling last minute. They add a pop of citrus to your dessert platter and brighten up the whole spread. Even days later, Lemon Cookies are just as scrumptious—soft, chewy, and full of zing. A foolproof choice for a sweet Easter treat that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Waffles

Freshly made waffles on a plate with strawberries.
Waffles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With Waffles, Easter brunch becomes a real treat. Mix up the batter beforehand and chill. Then it’s just cook and serve for an instant crowd-pleaser. They’re simple, but oh so good—crispy outside, fluffy inside, and ready for all your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, pretzel, pecan, and sea salt on a plate, with a spoon beside it.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whip up a Salted Caramel Cheesecake ahead of time for an indulgent Easter dessert. Chill it until the big day, and relish the blend of sweet, salty, and creamy. It’s an elegant finale to any meal. Honestly, everyone will want more.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Close-up of fluffy cheddar biscuits topped with herbs on a metal tray, with leafy greens in the background.
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits can easily be your secret weapon. Make them beforehand, warm them up, and keep them coming. They’re the cheesy, buttery addition your Easter table didn’t know it needed. They’ll be snatched up before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

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.

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