75 Delicious Easter Dinner Ideas

Creamy Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

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Craving even more? Discover all of our Easter recipes—plus tips, tricks and other holiday ideas.

Orange-Glazed Ham

This delicious ham looked like a sparkling jewel on the table when my mom served it for Easter dinner. The flavor of the spice rub penetrates through every tender slice. Even its enticing aroma while baking can't match the wonderful taste. —Ruth Seitz, Columbus Junction, Iowa

Hippity Hop Bunny Cake

This cute, festive cake will have your guests ‘hopping’ with happiness! Make the cake ahead and add the decorations close to it’s debut at your party or special occasion. — Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Creamy Deviled Eggs

These creamy deviled eggs are nicely flavored with a tang of mustard and a spark of sweetness from pickle relish. We served them at my daughter’s wedding reception. —Barbara Towler, Derby, Ohio

It’s not Easter without deviled eggs! Try these other best-loved Easter recipes, too.

Leeks au Gratin

Leeks are too delicious to stand only as an enhancement. Here, they're the star of a side dish, with a bit of French flair. —Chuck Mallory, Chicago, Illinois

Glazed Marsala Carrots with Hazelnuts

This makes an elegant side dish for company and is easy enough to make when you want to serve something special on a weeknight. Marsala wine makes it so deliciously different and unlike any other carrot recipe you’ve tasted. —Barbara Morris, South Amboy, New Jersey

Roast Leg of Lamb with Rosemary

Roast lamb is perfect for Eastertime or any special occasion. This succulent dish calls for a flavorful rosemary, garlic and onion rub.

Love the classics? Check out these traditional Easter recipes.

Easter Meringue Cups

These crunchy meringue shells with a lemon curd filling will make guests stop to “ooh” and “ahh” at your dessert table. Topped with fresh fruit, they’re especially pretty when served with a spring meal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Parmesan Asparagus

Nothing could be more simple than this side dish. Since it has just four ingredients, I assemble it in no time, then pop it into the oven for about 15 minutes. It turns out perfect every time, and it’s one of my favorite Easter dinner ideas. —Mary Ann Marino, West Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Sour Cream & Cheddar Biscuits

Here’s my go-to recipe for biscuits. Brushing them with the garlic-butter topping before baking seals the deal! —Amy Martin, Vancouver, WA

Grandmother's Orange Salad

This orange salad dessert is slightly sweet and tangy, too. It adds beautiful color to any meal and appeals to all ages! —Ann Eastman, Santa Monica, California

Find more of grandma’s best Easter recipes.

Cupcake Easter Baskets

These cute cupcakes with their mild orange flavor are fun to dress up for Easter. As we raised four sons and a daughter, I prepared many, many school lunches and often added these springtime treats. —Julie Johnston, Shaunavon, Saskatchewan

Dijon-Rubbed Pork with Rhubarb Sauce

This tender pork loin roast served with a rhubarb-orange sauce is simply delicious! Here’s an excellent choice for company—it makes a memorable meal. —Marilyn Rodriguez, Sparks, Nevada

Weeknight Skillet Spinach Pie

I love sneaking extra veggies into my kids’ dinners, especially with this skillet spinach pie recipe. With a flaky crust and extra cheese, the kids never know they’re eating a vitamin-rich dish and I’m not hovering over an oven for hours. Put the spinach and phyllo sheets in the refrigerator the night before or early in the morning for thawing. —Kristyne McDougle, Lorain, Ohio

The Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

What makes this the best out of all the scalloped potatoes recipes out there? I slice them extra thin and toss them in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Then, to make them the best ever, I sprinkle homemade bread crumbs on top—they get nice and crispy in the oven. Make room for these at all your family get-togethers. —Aria Thornton, Taste of Home Prep Cook

Easter Egg Cookies

My mother started baking these cookies with me and my eight brothers and sisters when I was a child, and I carried on the tradition with our four youngsters when they were little. Now, my children are grown and can make these cookies with their own tots. —Barbara Neuweg, West Point, Iowa

For a smaller get-together, check out these Easter recipes for four.

Mixed Fruit with Lemon-Basil Dressing

A slightly savory dressing really complements the sweet fruit in this recipe. I also use the dressing on salad greens. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois

Roasted Asparagus Risotto

This recipe’s wow factor makes it one of our favorite Easter dinner ideas. To save time, the asparagus and prosciutto can be roasting while the rice cooks on the stovetop. Then both will be ready to stir into the risotto by the time the rice is done. —Deonna Mazur, Buffalo, New York

Carrot Layer Cake

My sister gave me this recipe for what she calls “the ultimate carrot cake,” and it really lives up to the name. When people taste it, they’re bowled over by the tender, not-too-sweet cake and unexpected pecan filling. —Linda Van Holland, Innisfail, Alberta

Ham Salad

Easy Easter dinner ideas? Coming right up! I first made this for a shower, and everyone raved about it. Now when I go to a potluck, I take it, along with copies of the recipe. —Patricia Reed, Pine Bluff, Arkansas

Slow-Cooker Citrus Carrots

These carrots are yummy and so simple. The recipe is from my mom, who tweaked it a bit to suit her tastes. You can make this dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until needed. Then just reheat it before the party! —Julie Puderbaugh, Berwick, Pennsylvania

Strawberry Arugula Salad with Feta

The combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries and robust feta cheese may sound unusual, but one bite wins over taste buds.—Carala Horne, Meridian, Mississippi

Peeps Sunflower Cake

The inspiration for this cake came from one of my favorite flowers, the sunflower. The yellow peeps make eye-catching flower petals, and I carefully placed chocolate chips in a circular pattern to resemble the seeds in the middle of a sunflower. This cake is easy, but looks quite impressive. —Bethany Eledge, Cleveland, Tennessee

This dessert is a showstopper! Spring ahead with more of our most beautiful Easter recipes.

Best Ever Crescent Rolls

My daughter and I have cranked out dozens of these homemade crescent rolls. It’s a real team effort. I cut the dough into pie-shaped wedges; she rolls them up. —Irene Yeh, Mequon, Wisconsin

Easter Ham

Easter dinner ideas don’t get more traditional! I serve this ham every year. The sweet-spicy glaze turns a plain ham into a mouthwatering sensation. Everyone who tries it loves this juicy main dish! —Jessica Eymann, Watsonville, California

Party Spinach Spread

This appetizer is delicious, easy and pretty, too! Everyone who tries it asks for the recipe. The spread keeps for several days, so it's great for making in advance for a party. But once you put it out, it won't last long! —Maire Macy, Fort Collins, Colorado

Layered Sherbet Dessert

Macaroons and pecans combine in this special layered sherbet dessert. Try garnishing with fresh strawberries and just listen to folks “ooh” and “ahh” when you bring this in! —Kathryn Dunn, Axton, Virginia

Pimiento Green Beans

Here’s an easy way to turn everyday green beans into a special side dish. Pimientos, Parmesan cheese and chicken broth add savory flavor and a dash of color.

If you’re keeping your celebration small, try these Easter recipes for two.

Rhubarb Rosemary Flatbread

Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or side, this is one of my favorite Easter dinner ideas. I love the simple ingredients of this recipe and the exceptional combination of flavors! The kitchen smells awesome whenever I bake these flatbreads. Using rhubarb in a savory bread is new to many people, but it never fails to delight impress! —Maryalice Wood, Langley, British Columbia

Baby Swiss Appetizer Cheesecake

This beautiful cheesecake appetizer can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before serving, so it’s the perfect make-ahead recipe for holidays, game days or special occasions. —Marilyn Edelman, Sabetha, Kansas

This appetizer goes great with our Easter cocktail recipes.

Sauteed Tarragon Radishes

Who says radishes only belong in salads? These sauteed radishes are cooked in wine and tarragon, and may just change the way you look at radishes forever. They can be served on their own, or added to your favorite au gratin recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Easter Nest Torte

In this delectable dessert, a luscious cake layer nestles rich mousse and chocolate “twigs.” Your guests won’t be able to get enough of this unique Easter nest cake recipe. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Veggie Chopped Salad

My husband's aunt gave me this recipe back in the '80s, and it's been a staple at our house ever since. I like to make it a day ahead because some time in the fridge makes it even better. Be sure to save yourself some leftovers, too. —Madeline Etzkorn, Burien, Washington

For more, check out these Easter side dish ideas.

Roasted Chicken

This tender chicken is a real time-saver on a busy weekend. A simple blend of seasonings makes it a snap to prepare, and it smells heavenly as it roasts. —Marian Platt, Sequim, Washington

Swiss Potato Puffs

Encourage guests to mingle by serving these cute little morsels. They’re transportable, mess-free and easy to eat in a few bites. —Myra Innes, Auburn, Kansas

Feta Cheese-Stuffed Tomatoes

These tempting cheese-stuffed tomatoes are bursting with fresh flavor. Use the small end of a melon scoop to easily remove the pulp. —Laura LeRoy, Waxhaw, North Carolina

Baked Parmesan Broccoli

I began making this creamy side dish years ago as a way to get my kids to eat broccoli. They’ve since grown up, but still request this satisfying dish. It’s truly a family favorite. —Barbara Uhl, Wesley Chapel, Florida

Broken Glass Dessert

When it’s cut into squares, this dessert looks just like stained-glass windows. The buttery graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the lovely creamy topping. —Kathy Crow, Cordova, Alaska

Slow-Cooked Ham with Pineapple Sauce

We serve this dish during the holidays because everyone is crazy about it. But it makes it to the table all year long because it’s super simple to prepare. —Terry Roberts, Yorktown, Virginia

Pickled Eggs with Beets

Ever since I can remember, my Mother served this pickled egg recipe at Easter. It was a tradition that my family expected. I made them for my granddaughter the last time she visited and they were all gone before she left. —Mary Banker, Fort Worth, Texas

Paska Easter Bread

For traditional Easter dinner ideas, look no further than paska. This bake is prepared with lots of eggs, making it much richer than ordinary sweet breads. The beautifully braided top will earn you many compliments.

Lemon Dream Cheesecake

Light and creamy, this lemon cheesecake recipe is just the thing for a spring or summer day. —Bonnie Jost, Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Orange-Pistachio Quinoa Salad

Add this fresh and healthy quinoa recipe to your holiday spread. Its citrusy, nutty taste is simply delicious. —Jean Greenfield, San Anselmo, California

Blue Cheese-Mushroom Stuffed Tenderloin

Not into ham? Try one of our favorite Easter dinner ideas. Filled with a savory stuffing, the sliced tenderloin looks and tastes like a specialty from an upscale restaurant. —Joyce Conway, Westerville, Ohio

Carrot Raisin Salad

This colorful traditional salad is one of my mother-in-law’s favorites. It’s fun to eat because of its crunchy texture, and the raisins give it a slightly sweet flavor. Plus, the dish is easy to prepare. —Denise Baumert, Dalhart, Texas

Easy Batter Rolls

The first thing my guests ask when they come for dinner is if I’m serving these dinner rolls. The buns are so light, airy and delicious—and help make the meal. —Thomasina Brunner, Gloversville, New York

Mashed Cauliflower au Gratin

Unless someone tells you, you might not know you’re eating cauliflower. Even my grandchildren love this buttery, cheesy, creamy dish that tastes like mashed potatoes. —Sandie Parker, Elk Rapids, Michigan

Strawberry Lemon Cupcakes

My granddaughter Sydney has acquired a love of baking. While I was visiting her in Tampa, we made these light, fluffy cupcakes. She’s a natural—they turned out fantastic! —Lonnie Hartstack, Clarinda, Iowa

We love these other Easter cupcakes, too.

Mini Lamb Burgers

My husband loves this recipe for mini lamb burgers. They’re great for a light dinner or a hearty appetizer. Ground lamb makes really flavorful sliders, but you can use ground beef if you prefer. —Evelyn Rothwell, Los Angeles, California

Olive Oil Mashed Potatoes with Pancetta

Classic American mashed potatoes take a trip to Italy with the flavors of olive oil, garlic, and pancetta. —Bryan Kennedy, Kaneohe, Hawaii

Sweet & Tart Lemon Jell-O

Easter dinner ideas must include Jell-O! With its sunny lemon color, this gelatin mold brightens up any table. I usually make two molds for parties because it disappears so quickly. —Patricia Ryzow, Thousand Oaks, California

Pearl Onion Broccoli Bake

With its creamy white cheese sauce and buttery crumb topping, this dish is great comfort food. If you’re looking for a mild way to dress up broccoli, this is the recipe. —Charles Keating, Manchester, Maryland

Slow-Cooked Green Beans

I spent hours in search of sides for a cooking demo to present to women from my church. These easy green beans became my star attraction. —Alice White, Willow Spring, North Carolina

Delightful Fruit Salad

As much or as little Cool Whip can be added – to taste. If I have some mandarin oranges or maraschino cherries, I add a few to the top. I used this recipe as a salad, but my friends say it is good enough to be a dessert! —Elaine Bailey, Bloomfield, Indiana

Sweet Potato & Carrot Casserole

One of our favorite Easter dinner ideas, this tangy and sweet casserole is full of flavor. We’ve served it at many celebrations over the years, and it’s always been a big hit! —Gloria Mezikofsky, Wakefield, Massachusetts

Limoncello Tiramisu

We love everything about this wonderful dessert—from the light lemon flavor and creamy Mascarpone to the crunchy, crushed macaroon on top. We think you’ll enjoy it too.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Fresh Broccoli Salad with Lemon

The slightly sweet flavor of this salad's dressing is a great contrast to the rich bacon. You can substitute cauliflower for the broccoli if you prefer. —Janet Roth, Tempe, Arizona

Fruit and Cheese Kabobs

We came up with this fresh and fruity summer snack idea. It's easy to make ahead and carry to the ballpark, beach or playground, and the cinnamon-spiced yogurt dip adds a fun touch kids love. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Party Potatoes

These creamy, tasty potatoes can be made the day before and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to pop them in the oven (I often do that). The garlic powder and chives add zip, and the shredded cheese adds color. —Sharon Mensing, Greenfield, Iowa

Green Onion Rolls

Better double the batch! These savory, elegant rolls will disappear fast. —Jane Kroeger, Key Largo, Florida

Marshmallow Easter Eggs

I’ve been making these wonderful marshmallow Easter eggs for years. These candies are a big hit with marshmallow lovers. —Betty Claycomb, Alverton, Pennsylvania

Crown Roast with Apricot Dressing

Easter dinner ideas? You can’t beat this succulent entree. It’s beautifully roasted with an apricot glaze and a nicely browned stuffing. —Isabell Cooper, Cambridge, Nova Scotia

Shrimp Pasta Salad

I adore shrimp, so discovering it in this pasta salad recipe was a real treat for me. The lemon-dill sauce is light and bright. It’s one of our favorite cold pasta salad recipes! —Traci Wynne, Denver, Pennsylvania

Rhubarb Crumble Ice Cream

This rhubarb crumble ice cream combines two of my favorite desserts into one fantastic creation! If you close your eyes, it actually tastes like you’re taking a bite of fresh rhubarb crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Throw this into a waffle cone and enjoy a classic summertime treat! —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta

Sweet Onion Creamed Corn

A friend from church gave me this easy and delicious recipe more than 40 years ago, and I still make it regularly. She was from the South, and whenever I cook it, I remember her fondly. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

Caesar Salad in Peppered Parmesan Bowls

This cheese bowl salad looks impressive but is a cinch to make. I won’t tell if you don’t! —Melissa Wilkes, St. Augustine, Florida

Sweet Pineapple Casserole

This baked pineapple recipe has just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a great accompaniment to any meaty entree. Using canned pineapple makes it a snap to assemble. —Mary Ann Marino, West Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pork Loin with Strawberry-Rhubarb Chutney

I love strawberry-rhubarb pie, so I thought the same flavor combination could work as a chutney—and it does! This makes a delicious and festive accompaniment to a succulent pork roast. The chutney can be made a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator. —Deborah Biggs, Omaha, Nebraska

Asparagus with Fresh Basil Sauce

Add flair to your appetizer platter with this easy asparagus starter. The dip also doubles as a flavorful sandwich spread. —Janie Colle, Hutchinson, Kansas

Lemon Chiffon Cake

This moist, airy lemon chiffon cake was my dad's favorite. Mom revamped the original recipe to include lemons. I'm not much of a baker, but whenever I make this dessert my family is thrilled! —Trisha Kammers, Clarkston, Washington

Stuffed Salmon

You could get stuffed salmon from a big-box store, but my fillets are loaded with flavor from crab, cream cheese and savory herbs. We love them. —Mary Cokenour, Monticello, Utah

Fresh Artichokes with Lemon-Yogurt Dip

Artichokes are at their best when you prepare them simply, without a lot of fuss or seasonings to overdress them. Many people dip the petals in melted butter or mayonnaise, but I think you'll love my tangy lemon-yogurt dip. —Jill Haapaniemi, Brooklyn, New York

Orange Gelatin Pretzel Salad

Salty pretzels pair nicely with the sweet fruit in this refreshing layered salad. It’s a family favorite that is a slam-dunk at potlucks. —Peggy Boyd, Northport, Alabama

Citrus-Tarragon Asparagus Salad

I created this colorful salad when I was invited to a friend's Easter egg hunt and potluck picnic. The guests were begging to get my recipe. Let the flavors infuse overnight for the best taste. —Cheryl Magnuson, Apple Valley, California

Split Pea Soup with Bacon & Crab

Many split pea soups use ham and bacon for good, smoky flavor. Taking it one amazing step farther-add crabmeat. Freeze this one without toppings (freeze the cooked bacon separately), then reheat soup in a saucepan. Feel free to add more chicken stock or broth when reheating if you need it. Sprinkle bacon and fresh crab on top of bowls of hot soup. —Stephen Exel, Des Moines, Illinois