29 Easter Meal Prep Recipes That Save Time And Make You Look Amazing

A big Easter meal can leave you feeling overwhelmed instead of festive. Prepping 29 dishes ahead of time means no frantic chopping while guests watch. Instead, more time to relax, chat, and pretend everything was effortless. The secret? With a little planning and a lot of pretending it was easy.

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

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.

If you’re all about getting that cozy vibe with a twist, this is your go-to. Imagine all the classic flavors you love but with half the fuss. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole flips the script on dinner, turning a fancy meal into something you won’t sweat over. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making you the star without spending your whole day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

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.

Now, who doesn’t enjoy a bit of tangy sweetness to finish off a meal. This dessert is all about bringing sunshine to the table without any complicated steps. Lemon Pie is straightforward, allowing you to whip up something that looks and tastes like hours of work in far less time.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

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.

Want to bring a restaurant favorite right to your dining table. It’s easier than you might think and doesn’t require a boatload of ingredients. Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits have that mouth-watering flavor and soft texture that can make any meal feel special. These biscuits have a knack for stealing the show, so be prepared for them to disappear fast!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

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.

Forget what you know about meatloaf; this recipe changes the game. It’s all about minimizing prep time and maximizing flavor, making it a weeknight savior. Easy Meatloaf Recipe uses simple ingredients to create a hearty centerpiece that satisfies every time. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you of home, no matter where you are.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Corn Casserole

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

Sometimes, you need a side that screams comfort without slaving away in the kitchen. Here’s where this dish comes into play, blending simplicity with a homestyle feel. Corn Casserole is creamy, dreamy, and utterly delicious, making it a must-have for any gathering. It’s a side dish that often outshines the main, so make sure you make enough!
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who says you can’t make friends with salad. This dish is a vibrant, flavor-packed option that brings a bit of Italian flair to your meal. Antipasto Salad combines a mix of veggies, meats, and cheeses, all dressed up in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a great way to start a meal or serve alongside your main dish, adding a pop of color and taste.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

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 to add a veggie side that even the pickiest eaters will love. This classic has stood the test of time for a reason. Green Bean Casserole is creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Plus, it’s as easy as mixing a few ingredients together and letting the oven do the rest.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

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.

For those with a sweet tooth, this is a dream come true. It’s rich, decadent, and has a coconut-pecan frosting that’s to die for. German Chocolate Cake might sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly doable, and it’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a special occasion or you’re just craving chocolate, this cake won’t let you down.
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.

Need a finger food that’s both fulfilling and easy to make? Look no further. Sausage Balls are the perfect little bites of goodness that work as a snack, appetizer, or part of your main course. They’re hit at parties and are easy to customize to your liking, making them a versatile kitchen staple.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

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.

Imagine pulling apart a warm, fluffy roll at the dinner table. That’s the kind of moment this recipe promises. Dinner Rolls are surprisingly simple to make and can take your meal from good to great. They’re the perfect vehicle for sopping up sauces or just enjoying with a pat of butter.
Get the Recipe: Dinner 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.

Comfort food doesn’t get more classic than this. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it brings back all the best childhood memories. Mac and Cheese is a dish that’s always in style and this recipe makes it easier than ever to achieve that homemade taste. It’s a surefire hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Easy Banana Pudding

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

Dessert lovers, here’s something with a fruity twist that’ll end your meal on a high note. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and it has just the right amount of sweetness. Easy Banana Pudding is a no-bake marvel, making it the perfect last-minute dessert for any occasion. Get ready for it to become a new family favorite.
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.

When you want to bake something sweet without too much fuss, these cookies are your ace. They’re buttery, crumbly, and have that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Shortbread Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, ideal for holidays or a simple treat with tea. Plus, they’re a blank canvas for decoration if you’re feeling fancy.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

Hash Browns

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

Starting the day with a crispy, golden side dish can never go wrong. They’re a staple for a hearty breakfast and can easily be made in bulk. Hash Browns are not just for breakfast; they’re a great side for any meal. Getting them just right can be a bit tricky, but this recipe makes it foolproof.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Apple Crisp

Close-up of apple crumble with oats and brown sugar topping. A spoon is partially visible on the left.
Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s a dessert that will make your house smell like heaven as it bakes. It’s sweet, it’s crunchy, and it screams comfort. Apple Crisp is the less fussy cousin of the apple pie that delivers all the flavor without the work. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp

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 nights when you want a bit of indulgence, these are a perfect choice. They’re crispy, stuffed with all your favorite fillings, and totally irresistible. Loaded Potato Skins are not just pub fare; they can be made right at home with minimal effort. They’re great for game day, movie night, or anytime you need a tasty snack.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Mississippi Mud Pie

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

Dig into a dessert that’s as fun to say as it is to eat. This pie is a chocolate lover’s paradise, with layers of flavor that build one on top of the other. Mississippi Mud Pie is one of those recipes that looks complicated but is actually quite simple. It’s the ultimate showstopper for any occasion that calls for something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud 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.

Talk about a party in your mouth! These cheese balls combine a bit of heat with the savory goodness of bacon in every bite. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are the perfect appetizer for any gathering, offering a twist on the classic that’s sure to gather interest. 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.

Nothing says home like a slice of this classic dessert. It’s sweet, it’s cinnamon-y, and it has that flaky crust everyone loves. Apple Pie is the quintessential Americana dessert, but this recipe makes it easier than ever. It’s a great way to make a traditional meal feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie

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.

Craving something crispy? This dish offers a lighter take on fried chicken that’s just as rewarding. Chicken Tempura is all about that perfect batter and crisp texture, ideal for an impressive main course that won’t weigh you down. It’s a great way to add a bit of crunch to your Easter meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

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 think peanut butter is life, here’s your dream cake. It’s moist, it’s rich, and it has a frosting that you’ll want to eat by the spoonful. Peanut Butter Cake combines the flavorful taste of peanut butter with the sweet charm of cake. It’s a bold dessert that’s not afraid to stand out on the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

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.

Imagine waking up to the smell of these baking in the oven. They’re gooey, they’re aromatic, and they have that sourdough tang that makes them unique. Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are a beautiful twist on a classic breakfast treat, giving you all the feels of comfort food but with a sophisticated edge.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

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.

Despite the name, this dish is a celebration of flavor perfect for any gathering. It’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and it has a crunchy top that everyone will love. Funeral Potatoes are a comfort food classic that’s actually quite simple to make. They serve as a hearty side that’s sure to comfort and satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

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.

Who knew you could achieve bakery-level bagels in your own kitchen? They’re chewy, they’re fulfilling, and they have that distinct sourdough flavor. Sourdough Bagels are perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or anytime you need a carb fix. With a bit of planning, these bagels will make any meal feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

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.

If you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, here’s a recipe that’ll hit the spot. They’re dense, they’re chewy, and they have that crackly top that everyone loves. Chewy Chocolate Brownies are the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, making them a great choice for dessert lovers. They’re the kind of treat that’s hard to share, so make sure you bake enough!
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

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 a uniquely tasty appetizer, these little bites pack a huge flavor punch. They’re smoky, they’re savory, and they have an unexpected twist that’ll keep everyone coming back for more. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots are definitely a conversation starter, blending familiar flavors in a novel way.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Waffles

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

Breakfast or brunch isn’t complete without them. They’re light, they’re crispy, and they can be topped with just about anything. Waffles are a versatile option that go beyond the first meal of the day. With the right recipe, they’re foolproof and guaranteed to please any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

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.

When comfort is what you’re after, this dish delivers in spades. It’s warm, it’s filling, and it has that golden crust that’s utterly rewarding. Chicken Pot Pie is a comfort food classic that’s been simplified without losing any of the homestyle goodness. It’s the perfect way to bring a bit of coziness to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Dauphinoise Potatoes

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

Looking for a side that’s a bit on the fancy side without being fiddly? These potatoes are creamy, garlicky, and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Dauphinoise Potatoes are a luxurious addition to any meal, offering a touch of elegance that’s surprisingly simple to achieve. They’re sure to impress, making any meal feel a bit more gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise 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.

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