Home » Trending » 21 Easter Recipes That Keep the Tradition but Skip the Stress—Because Who Wants to Cook All Day?

21 Easter Recipes That Keep the Tradition but Skip the Stress—Because Who Wants to Cook All Day?

Preparing a holiday meal doesn’t have to take up the entire day. These 21 recipes bring together traditional dishes while keeping the cooking process simple and stress-free. Some can be made ahead of time, while others come together quickly, so there’s less time spent in the kitchen and more time to enjoy.

Mini egg cookies on a white plate with colorful icing.
Mini Egg Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Finding a dish that balances rich flavors with minimal effort can make your Easter special, and Mediterranean Cod accomplishes just that. It infuses a refreshing touch to your holiday table without keeping you in the kitchen all day. It’s easy, quick, and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Ideal for a family gathering, it effortlessly complements any side dish you decide to serve.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those seeking a twist on the traditional side, Au Gratin Potato Stacks bring elegance and simplicity to your Easter meal. This recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into something visually stunning and delicious. They cook faster than a whole casserole, giving you more time to enjoy the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Lemon Cake Pops

Lemon cake pops on a white plate.
Lemon Cake Pops. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Lemon Cake Pops add a fun and festive flair to your Easter dessert table. They’re simple to make and allow for creativity with decorations. This dessert offers a burst of lemony freshness, ideal after a hearty meal. Not only are they a convenient treat for guests to enjoy, but they also brighten up your spread with their vibrant appearance.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones

Bacon, Cheddar, Green Onion Scones on a black plate.
Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re aiming for a savory start to your Easter meal, Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones serve as a tempting option. These scones combine heartiness with the warmth of home cooking, making them a comforting addition to your spread. They’re fantastic for those who love a touch of savory richness in their pastries.
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shirazi Salad brings a crisp and refreshing element to your table, making it the perfect palate cleanser or side dish for your Easter feast. Its simplicity is its strength, contributing a light and healthy option amidst heavier holiday fare. It’s an effortless way to add color and freshness to your meal, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Mediterranean Chicken Bake with herbs, cheese and tomatoes in a platter.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you prepare Mediterranean Chicken Bake, you’re signing up for a hassle-free yet utterly flavorful main dish. This recipe keeps your time in the kitchen to a minimum while producing a meal that’s rich in flavor and appeal. It’s an excellent choice for a family looking to enjoy quality time together without the backdrop of clanging pots and pans.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Old Fashioned Ham Salad is a nod to tradition with a taste that feels like home. It’s ideal for relaxed Easter dining, easily prepared ahead of time, allowing you more moments with loved ones. This salad can serve as a hearty side or a light main, versatile enough to match your celebration’s tone. It’s a comforting reminder of the holiday joys, offering both nostalgia and ease.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Smoked Asparagus

Smoked asparagus on a white platter with lemon.
Smoked Asparagus. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

To introduce a smokey twist to your greens, Smoked Asparagus is a top choice. This recipe keeps your Easter menu exciting and pairs wonderfully with both light and heavy mains. It’s a straightforward way to transform your vegetable sides without any unnecessary fuss. The smoky flavor adds depth, making your regular asparagus side dish an instant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus

Zucchini Bread

Sliced Zucchini Bread.
Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A moist and flavorful addition to your Easter spread, perfect for those who appreciate a sweet note with their meal is Zucchini Bread. It’s not only delicious but also a conversation starter, introducing a delicious variety to your bread offerings. This bread can easily be made in advance, ensuring a stress-free holiday preparation. Enjoy it fresh or toasted for a splendid springtime treat.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bread

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing Cold Crab Dip to your Easter gathering ensures a cool, creamy appetizer that guests can enjoy right from the start. It’s exceptionally easy to whip up, providing a luxurious touch without the cost of time or complexity. This dip invites everyone to dig in, setting a communal and joyous tone. It’s a small effort for a big payoff, enriching your festive table with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze on a round platter.
Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Promise to be a centerpiece that’s both visually appealing and mouthwateringly savory of Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze. This recipe offers a deep blend of smokiness and sweetness, sure to please a crowd. It’s a brilliant choice for those wanting to venture beyond traditional Easter fare, injecting a bold flavor into your holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Carrots au Gratin

A casserole dish filled with carrots au gratin.
Carrots au Gratin. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Carrots au Gratin brings a vibrant and creamy side dish that’s both comforting and a joy to present. This recipe melds simplicity with a touch of elegance, ensuring your Easter table is both colorful and delicious. It’s an ingeniously simple way to include more vegetables in your feast without compromising on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Carrots au Gratin

Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

Shortbread M&M cookies on a black plate with flowers.
Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a festive and playful dessert, Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms are your go-to. These treats are uncomplicated to bake, and decorating them can become a fun family activity. They’re not just delicious but also add a splash of color to your Easter dessert options. This cookie offers a crisp texture and a sweet burst of chocolate, making it irresistible to guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

Butter Scones

Two butter scones on a plate with a cup of tea on a marble surface.
Butter Scones. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

The quintessential comfort food, perfect for a cozy Easter breakfast or brunch is Butter Scones. They pair deliciously with your favorite jam or clotted cream, adding a touch of indulgence to your meal. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring you’re not stuck in the kitchen for too long. It’s about bringing warmth and simplicity to your table, letting you relish the holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Butter Scones

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is about bringing tradition and coziness to your Easter feast. This dish transforms the humble potato into a creamy, comforting casserole that warms the heart and fills the stomach. It’s designed to minimize kitchen time while maximizing flavor, allowing you more precious moments with family.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Opt for Smoked Carver Ham if you’re looking for a standout main dish that’s as stress-free as it is flavorful. This ham brings a smoky richness to your Easter table, complemented by the joy of effortless preparation. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser, freeing you up from extensive cooking duties. Perfectly smoked, it captures the essence of the holiday celebrations without the traditional fuss.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Side dishes like Greek Lemon Potatoes provide a bright and tangy complement to any Easter meal. This recipe is a wonderful way to bring lightness and flavor to your table, with minimal effort required. It’s a refreshing break from heavier dishes, offering a vibrant kick to your feast. Perfect for invigorating your spread with something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Traeger Smoked Turkey

A smoked turkey on a wooden cutting board.
Traeger Smoked Turkey. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Traeger Smoked Turkey is your answer to a wow-worthy Easter centerpiece that practically takes care of itself. This method imparts a deep, rich flavor to the turkey, making it a memorable main dish. Ideal for feeding a crowd, it frees you up to enjoy the holiday instead of monitoring the oven. This turkey is bound to become a talking point, thanks to its tender meat and smokey taste.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

A bowl of yellow bean and potato salad.
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a lighter side that still satisfies, Yellow Bean & Potato Salad is a colorful and flavorful choice. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional sides, combining textures and flavors in a delicious way. Easy to prepare ahead of time, it allows you to focus on enjoying the day. This salad brings a cheerful burst of spring color to your table, making your meal visually appealing and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

Easter Dessert Cups

A colorful easter dessert in a cup with eggs and candy.
Easter Dessert Cups. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Easter Dessert Cups are individual treats that make dessert time exciting and fuss-free. These cups are easily customized to cater to various tastes, ensuring there’s something special for everyone. They add a personal touch to your holiday meal, showcasing your creative flair. Not only do they offer convenience, but they also bring a smile with their charming presentation.
Get the Recipe: Easter Dessert Cups

Mini Egg Cookies

Mini egg cookies on a white plate with colorful icing.
Mini Egg Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge your guests with Mini Egg Cookies, combining the joy of chocolate eggs with the comfort of homemade cookies. These are not only fun to make but also fun to eat, making them an easter dessert everyone looks forward to. Soft, chewy, and filled with chocolatey goodness, they are sure to disappear quickly from the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Egg Cookies

By

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.