Prep Early, Relax Later 29 Easter Recipes That Keep You Sane

Getting ready for the big day doesn’t have to be a scramble. With 29 Easter recipes designed for early prep, relaxing later becomes a breeze. Imagine all the work done in advance, so when the day rolls in, it’s all about kicking back. It’s like giving the gift of peace of mind, and who wouldn’t want that for a holiday?

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

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.

Bite-sized and brimming with flavor, Sausage Balls are just the thing for stress-free entertaining. Roll them up, bake, and serve – it’s that simple. You’ll have a platter of perfect little appetizers ready to go, allowing you more time to mingle. They’re as enjoyable to eat as they are easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

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.

Turning things upside down has never been so tasty. Pineapple Upside Down Cake brings a caramelized pineapple topping that everyone will want a piece of. Prepare it in advance, let it cool, and invert when you’re ready to reveal a beautiful and easy dessert. It’s about creating wow moments with minimal hassle.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

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.

Light, buttery, and oh-so-crumble-in-your-mouth, Shortbread Cookies are a timeless treat. Mix, bake, and cool these little beauties well in advance for a hassle-free sweet snack. It’s all about having more moments to yourself while still serving up homemade happiness.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

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.

Breakfast just got easier with Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. It’s the kind of dish you can arrange the night before and simply bake in the morning. Full of comforting flavors, it’s a hearty start to the day and ensures you won’t be tied to the stove. With this on your table, everyone starts the day off right, and so do you.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Potato Salad

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

Get your side dish game on point with Potato Salad. It’s one of those make-ahead miracles that tastes even better after a day in the fridge. Whip it up, let it chill, and then serve it at your convenience. Who said you can’t have both flavor and ease?
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Close-up of a serving of chicken cordon bleu casserole with shredded chicken, ham, melted cheese, and breadcrumb topping, garnished with parsley.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Transforming a classic dish into something simpler without sacrificing taste, that’s what you get with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Layer everything into a dish, and while it bakes, you kick back. It’s all the flavors you crave, made in a way that lets you enjoy your day. No fuss, all the joy of cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

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.

Kick your appetizers up a notch with Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. These little bites pack a punch and can be assembled and cooked ahead of your gathering. They’re perfect when you want some smokiness on the menu, and you’ll love the praise they get. All the work is done early, so when guests arrive, you’re all set to join the fun.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Pecan Pie Cobbler

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

When you can’t decide between pie and cobbler, Pecan Pie Cobbler is your answer. It’s a fuss-free dessert that brings you the best of both worlds, with less work. Just bake until golden and bubbly, then serve up this comfort in a dish. It’s about making life easier, one recipe at a time.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A slice of apple cinnamon roll on a plate.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combining two favorites into one, Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie brings you the joy of baking with ease. Assemble your pie, pop it in the oven, and let the flavors meld together into something truly special. It’s a creative twist on classic tastes, leaving your house smelling amazing.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Pineapple Casserole

Pineapple casserole in a casserole dish with a serving spoon in it.
Pineapple Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ever thought of making a sweet and savory casserole? Pineapple Casserole mixes flavors in a surprising way, ready to be the talk of your meal. Assemble it, bake until it’s perfectly golden, and enjoy the ease of preparation. It’s about adding a twist to classic dishes without the extra stress.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole

Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Close-up image of several chocolate brownies featuring a slightly crumbly texture and a sprinkling of coarse salt on top.
Chewy Chocolate Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who doesn’t love soft, fudgy squares that you can prep in advance and enjoy all weekend? Chewy Chocolate Brownies are here to keep things easy and delicious. Just mix, bake, and relax. They’re perfect when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

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 something deeply comforting about homemade Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls. Make the dough the night before, and fill your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon come morning. They bring sweetness and warmth to any meal, and they’re ready when you are. It’s about taking the rush out of baking, so you get to enjoy the morning too.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Chicken Tempura

Plate of batter-fried fritters with a bowl of red dipping sauce on a white plate, viewed from above.
Chicken Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy, light, and perfect for a laid-back meal, Chicken Tempura offers a twist to your dining table. Get your ingredients ready, fry them up, and serve. It’s less about the hassle and more about enjoying every bite. Great for a quick, impressive meal without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Chocolate Covered Oreo Easter Nests

Chocolate cookies topped with colorful candy eggs and chocolate sprinkles on a wooden surface.
Chocolate Covered Oreo Easter Nests. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, Chocolate Covered Oreo Easter Nests have you covered. They’re playful, sweet, and you can get creative with them. Once done, you’ve got the rest of the day to do whatever you please while munching on these beauties.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Covered Oreo Easter Nests

Mississippi Mud Pie

A slice of Mississippi mud pie on a plate.
Mississippi Mud Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’ve been craving something deeply chocolatey, look no further. Mississippi Mud Pie is layers of chocolate upon chocolate, all set atop a crumbly cookie crust. You can prepare it early, let it chill, then serve it up for an instant crowd-pleaser. Everyone will be impressed, and you get to kick your feet up sooner.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Close-up of a dish of warm cinnamon rolls topped with white glaze.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast or brunch can be a breeze with Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Prep it the night before, then bake in the morning. It allows you to enjoy your morning coffee a bit longer while the oven does its magic. A hassle-free way to treat everyone to something yummy.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Turn the heat up on your snack game with Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Prepare these spicy packages in advance, bake, and have them ready to wow your friends and family. These are sure to pull everyone to the table for a flavorful treat, while you’re enjoying the party, not stuck prepping. It’s about spicy kicks without the last-minute hitch.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed 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.

Who doesn’t love creamy, cheesy goodness in one bite? Mac and Cheese is your go-to comfort food that can be made ahead of time, ensuring you’re not stuck in the kitchen all day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and enjoy more time relaxing. It’s perfect for when you want something delish without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Potato Casserole

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

Think of a dish that is both comforting and easy to make. Potato Casserole is exactly that, allowing you to prepare ahead and simply heat when it’s mealtime. It’s a hearty side that complements any main dish, making your meal planning a breeze. Enjoy gathering around for a meal without the last-minute rush.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack.
Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ready for some gooey, chocolatey goodness that you can share or maybe keep all to yourself? Chocolate Chip Cookies are your go-to. Whip up a batch in no time, and enjoy the smell of cookies filling your home. It’s about simple pleasures and taking the time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

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.

For those who can’t get enough of peanut butter, you’ll find a slice of heaven in Peanut Butter Cake. Whip it up, let it cool, and slather on the frosting at your leisure. It’s all about making your life simpler but still keeping dessert seriously scrumptious. Plus, who can resist the call of peanut butter?
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

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

Veggie dishes can steal the show, especially when you’ve got Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole on the menu. Just toss it together, bake until melty and golden, and a crowd-pleaser is served. It’s a clever way to sneak in those vegetables and still have people asking for seconds. Most of the work is done earlier, so when dinner rolls around, you’re all set.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A slice of pecan pie being served on a cake slice.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine combining the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake. That’s what Pecan Pie Cheesecake is all about. Get it ready in the morning, chill it, and it’s set to impress by dinner time without extra work. It’s a stylish twist on dessert that won’t leave you stranded in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine getting all the comforting flavors you need with minimal effort. Chicken Pot Pie makes it possible to have a hearty meal that feels like a hug in a dish. You’ll assemble it quickly and let the oven do the rest. Perfect for those days when you want to prep early and take it easy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

A slice of Reese's pie sits on a cake slice, ready to be served.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who believe peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven, Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is your dream dessert. Prepare it early, let it set, and unveil a dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having dessert sorted out well in advance. It’s all about indulging without the rush.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

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.

When you’re looking for a luscious dessert, consider Salted Caramel Cheesecake. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and salty, and you can get it ready ahead of time. Once it’s set and chilled, it’s ready to serve, making your dessert time utterly fuss-free. Enjoy the oohs and aahs as everyone digs in, giving you a chance to relax with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Waffles

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

Nothing says relaxed morning like a stack of Waffles. Whip up the batter in a jiff, cook them to golden perfection, and have a stack ready for topping as you please. They’re an invitation to get creative or simply savor as is, and they promise a morning without the rush. Kick back and watch everyone dig in with smiles.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Cherry Cheesecake

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

For a fruity and creamy dessert, whip up a Cherry Cheesecake. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth, it gives you the freedom to have dessert sorted out long before your guests arrive. The wait for it to chill is well worth it, and that gives you plenty of downtime. When you’re ready, serve up and watch it disappear; your work here is done.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

Chocolate Pie

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who can resist the rich, comforting allure of Chocolate Pie? Mix, pour, bake, and before you know it, you’re slicing into a dessert that makes any meal special. It’s all about indulging without the need for elaborate preparations. Kick back while it cools, then enjoy every bite.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pie

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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