Master Easter Cooking Without Breaking A Sweat 29 Make-Ahead Dishes

Easter should be about enjoying the day, not spending it stuck in the kitchen. With a little planning, you can have a delicious spread without the hassle. These 29 make-ahead dishes let you get all the cooking done early, so you can actually relax. No last-minute scrambling, no stress—just good food ready when you need it.

Loaded Potato Skins

If you want something that’s a hit at any meal, go for this classic. Loaded Potato Skins are great because you can make them ahead and just heat them up when it’s time to eat. They pack a punch of flavor that’s both familiar and comforting. These little bites are perfect for when you want to enjoy your gathering without worrying about last-minute cooking.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Antipasto Salad

Ever need a dish that brings freshness to the table with a variety of textures? That’s where Antipasto Salad comes in. It’s a mix of bites that work well together, and you can prepare it before your guests arrive. Just toss it together and you’ve got a side that balances out heavier main courses.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Lemon Cookies

For a sweet note that’s not too heavy, try your hand at baking some Lemon Cookies. They’re easy to whip up, and you can have them ready to go days in advance. Their bright flavor makes them a hit, plus they’re perfect for nibbling on as the day goes on. Have them with tea or coffee, and watch them disappear!
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Baked Oatmeal

Breakfast or brunch can be as simple as pulling out a dish you made the day before, like Baked Oatmeal. It’s a cozy and warm starter that gets everyone ready for the day. You can customize it to your liking, and it only gets better after a night in the fridge. Serve it up in the morning for a no-fuss, hearty beginning.
Get the Recipe: Baked Oatmeal

Chocolate Covered Oreo Easter Nests

When you want something that looks festive but takes minimal effort, whip up some Chocolate Covered Oreo Easter Nests. They are fun for kids and adults alike and can be prepared well in advance. Just store them properly, and you’ll have a pop of sweetness ready at a moment’s notice. Plus, they double as cute decorations for your table.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Covered Oreo Easter Nests

Focaccia Bread

Who doesn’t love freshly baked bread but without the time crunch? Focaccia Bread can be prepped ahead, and all it needs is to be heated up before serving. It’s versatile—enjoy it plain or add your own personal twist with toppings. This bread is ideal for soaking up sauces or just eating by the slice.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia Bread

Dauphinoise Potatoes

If you enjoy dishes that feel a bit fancy but are actually straightforward, Dauphinoise Potatoes should be on your menu. You can assemble it before your event, so all you need is to bake it on the day. Its creamy layers are a crowd-pleaser and complement any main dish beautifully. Just cut, serve, and watch it be one of the first things to go!
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Hot Cross Buns

There’s a certain joy in biting into a traditional favorite that you’ve made yourself, like Hot Cross Buns. Make them in advance and just warm them when it’s time to eat. They’re slightly sweet and perfect with a pat of butter or on their own. Having them ready to go takes the stress out of your holiday baking.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cross Buns

Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm bread always pulls people together, so having Dinner Rolls ready is a smart move. Prepare them ahead, and pop them in the oven before dinner to serve them fresh. They’re the overlooked heroes that complement any meal and never fail to please. Plus, making them yourself adds that personal touch that guests love.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Potato Salad

For a hearty side that’s a staple at many meals, go with Potato Salad. Make it ahead, let the flavors meld in the fridge, and it’s ready to serve when you are. It’s a versatile dish that you can adjust based on what flavors you like. Everyone seems to have their own version, and it’s always a comforting pick.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Those cheese biscuits everyone raves about can be yours without the wait at the restaurant. Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits can be prepped beforehand and simply heated or finished off when needed. They bring a taste of dining out right into your home. Watch these disappear fast as everyone reaches for one more.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Imagine biting into a roll with a surprise kick. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls are perfect for those who like a little heat. You can get them ready ahead of time and just deal with the final steps before serving. It’s like having wings and bread in one, minus the messy fingers.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Rhubarb Crisp

If you’re looking for a dessert with a tangy, sweet taste, Rhubarb Crisp is a top choice. You can prepare it and simply reheat or serve at room temperature. This dish offers a contrast in textures from the soft fruit to the crunchy topping. It’s one of those old-school favorites that never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Crisp

Cinnamon Swirl Bread

For a breakfast or coffee-time treat that doubles as a great snack, Cinnamon Swirl Bread is a brilliant selection. Prepare a loaf in advance, and you’ve got an instant hit for any meal or just by itself. Slice it up and see it get devoured quickly, it pairs excellently with a spread of butter. It’s a comforting choice that needs little effort for a lot of reward.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Apple Crisp

An enduring favorite, Apple Crisp is just as delicious made ahead as it is fresh. It’s a simple dish, with that home-cooked appeal that everyone gravitates towards. Serve it warm or at room temperature; either way, it’s sure to be enjoyed. It’s one of those timeless tastes that evoke memories and create new ones.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Not your typical finger food, Smoky Bacon Pig Shots are as fun to eat as they are to look at. Make them in advance for a unique small bite that’ll have everyone talking. They’re smoky, they’re tasty, and they hit the spot perfectly. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Chewy Chocolate Brownies

When you crave something rich and chocolatey, Chewy Chocolate Brownies fill the spot. Make a batch or two prior to your gathering, and you’re set for dessert or a sweet snack. They’re a direct route to making friends and family happy. Cut them into squares, serve, and watch the joy unfold.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

French Onion Soup

A classic soup that’s both rich and warming is French Onion Soup. You can do all the preliminaries before your guests arrive, then just reheat and add the finishing touches. It’s a dish that feels special but doesn’t require you to be trapped in the kitchen. Its familiar flavors are always a comfort on any table.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Waffles

Start your day or add a fun twist to your meal with Waffles. They’re not just for breakfast—they can be an amusing addition to any meal. Prep the batter ahead, and when it’s go-time, just cook and serve. They can be dressed up or down, sweet or appetizing, making them utterly versatile.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Coconut Fudge

If you’re after a sweet treat that feels a bit more exotic, Coconut Fudge is just what you need. It’s sweet, it’s creamy, and you can make a big batch before you need it. This confection draws raves for its tropical twist and melt-in-the-mouth texture. It’s a simple way to bring a little something special to the table.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Fudge

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Bring some excitement to the appetizer table with Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. They are a blend of spicy and appetizing that you can make in advance. Just pull them out when it’s time to start the gathering, and watch them go fast. They’re the kind of nibble that sparks conversation and appetite alike.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Chicken Tempura

When you’re in the mood for a bit of crunch, Chicken Tempura is your go-to. It’s a dish that’s surprisingly simple to get prepped ahead of time. When you’re ready, do the final steps and serve up something that’s sure to be a favorite. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of a twist on classic dishes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Mac and Cheese

Everyone’s comfort food favorite, Mac and Cheese, is even better when made in advance. You can whip it up, bake it partway, and finish it when your guests arrive. It’s the ultimate side dish that pleases both kids and adults. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy to love, it’s a guaranteed winner.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Shortbread Cookies

Whether you’re sitting down for tea or just want a small bite of sweetness, Shortbread Cookies have you covered. Make them ahead, and they keep very well, ready to be shared and enjoyed. Their buttery taste and crumbly texture make them a simple yet beloved treat. It’s a gentle sweetness that compliments any beverage or mood.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

Chocolate Chip Cookies

It’s hard to find anyone who doesn’t light up at the prospect of Chocolate Chip Cookies. You can make the dough in advance, so baking them fresh when it’s time is a breeze. They’re perfect for casual gatherings or just a treat throughout the day. Watch them disappear quickly, as they’re universally adored.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sausage Balls

For an appetizing snack with a little protein kick, Sausage Balls are the answer. Prep them and stash them until you’re ready; just heat and serve. They work great in the morning, as an appetizer, or alongside your main course. It’s an easy way to bring a little heartiness to the table.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Get ready for your kitchen to smell amazing with Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Prepare them the day before, and you can still serve them warm and gooey. They’re like a hug in the form of food – sweet, soft, and oh so comforting. This is the sort of treat that can make any morning feel special.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Italian Sliders

Bring a little Italian flare to the menu with Italian Sliders. They’re a great make-ahead option that’s easy to finish up when you’re ready to eat. Think small sandwiches packed with flavor that can serve as both an appetizer or a main. They’re a fun way to mix it up and something that kids and adults will love.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Cherry Cheesecake

If you’re thinking of ending your meal with something sweet, Cherry Cheesecake is a classic choice. You can get it ready beforehand, so you just pull it out when dessert time rolls around. It’s creamy, it’s rich, and that fruit topping adds just the right amount of tartness. It’s a dessert that tends to get a lot of compliments.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake