The Best Way to Win Easter Is With 29 Easy Meal Prep Recipes

No one wants to be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is hoarding the chocolate eggs. With 29 simple meal prep ideas lined up, the fridge can do most of the heavy lifting. Easter chaos feels way less chaotic when the food is already done. Just heat, eat, and pretend it was all part of the plan.

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.

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.

Nothing warms you up like a creamy bowl of soup. Especially when it’s easy to make and fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Leek and Potato Soup fits this bill perfectly. It’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for Easter prep, blending simplicity with deliciousness.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Italian Sliders

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

For a crowd-pleasing appetizer, you can’t go wrong with sliders. Italian Sliders take the beloved mini sandwich to a new level with their juicy and flavorful filling. They’re perfect for feeding a large group without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, everyone loves the wonderful surprise of melted cheese in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Lemon Pie

A slice of lemon pie sits on a plate next to a pie with a slice removed.
Lemon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

After a hearty meal, there’s always room for dessert, especially if it’s light and tangy. Lemon Pie offers just that, with its refreshing flavor cutting through the richness of traditional Easter dishes. Its bright taste is a hit at any spring gathering, promising smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When looking for a side dish that screams comfort, look no further. Dauphinoise Potatoes bring layers of creamy, cheesy goodness that no one can resist. This side dish is a cut above the ordinary, making any meal feel more special. It’s a show-stopper that often gets people asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re in search of a side that combines ease with flavor, this is it. Corn Casserole is a no-fuss dish that’s big on taste and perfect for Easter prep. With its creamy texture and sweet flavor, it’s designed to win over even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it serves a crowd, making your job easier.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Rhubarb Crisp

A baked dessert with a crumbly brown topping and red filling sits in a dish, with a portion served in a separate bowl. Spoons are present in both the dish and the bowl.
Rhubarb Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spring is the perfect time for this tangy, sweet dessert. Rhubarb Crisp offers a wonderful contrast of textures and is a refreshing way to end any meal. It’s simple to whip up and even easier to enjoy. This dessert is sure to become a requested favorite at your Easter table.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Crisp

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Breakfast or brunch isn’t complete without a hearty, fulfilling dish. Egg Casserole combines all the morning favorites into one convenient dish. It’s perfect for an Easter morning feast, allowing you more time to spend with family. Plus, it’s customizable to fit any taste preference.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls in a pan with icing.
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine waking up to the sweet smell of Homemade Cinnamon Rolls baking in the oven. These rolls are fluffy, sweet, and covered in a rich, creamy frosting. They are the perfect start to an Easter morning, promising to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Plus, they’re much easier to make than you might think.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Potato Salad

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

No Easter is complete without a classic side that everyone expects on the table. Potato Salad is that dish, bringing together creamy, crunchy, and tangy in every bite. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with nearly any main dish, making it a reliable choice for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Potato 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.

For many, Easter wouldn’t be the same without Carrot Cake. This dessert brings spices, textures, and a creamy frosting together in a harmonious blend. It’s moist, rich, and perfectly sweet, making it a fitting end to your Easter meal. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s been a favorite for generations.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake

Green Bean Casserole

A casserole dish filled with green bean casserole with a spoon in it.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a vegetable side that’s anything but boring? Green Bean Casserole is a classic choice that combines creamy sauce with crunchy topping. It’s an essential part of any Easter meal, loved for its comforting taste and ease of preparation. This dish is sure to claim its spot on your holiday table year after year.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

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.

For those craving a bit of indulgence, Loaded Potato Skins offer everything you love. Crispy skins packed with cheese, bacon, and a touch of green onion make for an irresistible combination. They’re perfect for an Easter appetizer or a side dish. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

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.

Appetizers that you can pop in your mouth and enjoy with minimal mess are always a hit. Sausage Balls blend savory flavors in bite-sized treats that are impossible to resist. They’re easy to make in large batches and are perfect for getting your Easter feast started on the right note.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

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.

Mornings on Easter can be hectic, but breakfast doesn’t have to be. Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a fun and tasty dish that everyone will love. It’s packed with flavor, can be prepped ahead of time, and is sure to kickstart your day in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds.
Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re looking to impress with your baking skills, look no further. Sourdough Bagels bring a wonderful tang and chewiness that store-bought versions can’t match. They’re perfect for an Easter brunch spread and offer a personal touch that guests will appreciate. Making them is also a rewarding process.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

Hash Browns

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

A crispy, golden side dish can improve any meal from good to great. Hash Browns are just that, offering a crunchy texture and a fulfilling taste. They’re a versatile side that pairs well with a variety of Easter dishes. Plus, they’re a hit with guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Mississippi Mud Pie

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

Need a dessert that stands out from the rest? Mississippi Mud Pie is a decadent choice that’s sure to impress. With its rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture, it’s a luxurious end to any Easter meal. It’s also surprisingly easy to make, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the day.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When comfort food is on the menu, a cheesy and creamy dish is a must. Hashbrown Casserole fits the bill perfectly, combining a universally loved ingredient—potatoes—with a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a side dish that complements any main and makes your Easter meal prep a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

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.

For something sweet that isn’t too heavy, Shortbread Cookies are just right. They’re buttery, crumbly, and melt in your mouth. These cookies are perfect for an Easter treat, pairing beautifully with coffee or tea. Plus, they’re straightforward to make, requiring just a few ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

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.

Easter wouldn’t be the same without Hot Cross Buns. These spiced, sweet buns are a tradition for a reason, offering a bite of history with each serving. They’re perfect for breakfast or brunch, and baking them is a great way to kick off the celebrations. Plus, their unique flavor is a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cross Buns

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.

Looking for comfort in a dish? Mac and Cheese is a guaranteed hit. It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. This dish is a staple for a reason, fitting perfectly into any Easter meal. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing for countless variations to match your main dish.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Waffles

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

Breakfast or brunch isn’t complete without Waffles. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, they offer the perfect canvas for a variety of toppings. They’re great for an Easter gathering, fulfilling both sweet and savory preferences. Plus, they’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

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 peanut butter lovers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is a dream come true. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with the beloved flavor of Reese’s. This dessert is a splendid way to round off your Easter meal, leaving everyone content. It’s also easy to make, which is always a bonus.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Appetizers set the tone for any feast, and Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls promise an exciting start. They’re packed with flavor, offering a perfect balance of spicy, smoky, and creamy. They’re a hit at any gathering, getting everyone ready for the meal ahead. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to put together.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Apple Pie

A slice of apple pie on a plate with a scoop of ice cream.
Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A classic dessert that never goes out of style is Apple Pie. Its flaky crust and sweet filling make it a favorite for many. It’s perfect for any Easter celebration, offering a taste of tradition. Making it from scratch adds a personal touch that guests will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie

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.

No feast is complete without soft, warm Dinner Rolls on the table. They complement any dish, making them a must-have for your Easter meal. They’re also great for rounding off the meal, ensuring no one leaves hungry. Plus, baking them fills the house with an unbeatable aroma.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

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.

For a starter that’s both elegant and comforting, French Onion Soup is unbeatable. It’s rich, savory, and topped with melty cheese. This soup sets a high standard for the rest of the meal, offering a luxurious beginning. It’s a little effort for a lot of rewards.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Focaccia Bread

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

Bread lovers, rejoice. Focaccia Bread is here to upgrade your Easter meal with its fluffy texture and aromatic flavor. It’s versatile, perfect as a side or for mopping up sauces. Plus, it’s a beautiful addition to any table, showcasing your baking skills.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

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.

For an appetizer that’s sure to grab attention, Smoky Bacon Pig Shots are a fantastic choice. They’re unique, packed with flavor, and fun to eat. They make starting your Easter feast an exciting event. Plus, they offer a smoky taste that’s hard to find in other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

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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