15 Traditional Easter Menus Ideas

Planning a classic Easter feast can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance tradition, crowd-pleasing flavors, and realistic prep time. That’s where this roundup of traditional Easter menu ideas comes in handy.

Whether you’re hosting a formal sit-down dinner or a relaxed family gathering, these recipes highlight the timeless dishes that make Easter special in American homes.

From savory mains to comforting sides, this list focuses on easy Easter recipes, familiar flavors, and dishes that feel festive without being fussy. Each recipe is beginner-friendly, made with accessible ingredients, and designed to fit seamlessly into a complete Easter menu.

You’ll find options perfect for brunch, dinner, or potluck-style celebrations, all while keeping prep stress low and flavor high. Let’s start building an Easter spread everyone will remember.

Recipe #1: Classic Honey Baked Ham

Sweet, salty, and beautifully glazed, this honey baked ham is a true Easter centerpiece. The meat stays juicy while the glaze caramelizes into a sticky, golden crust. It’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for guests. Perfect for Easter dinner or a large family gathering.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
2. Pour water into the bottom of the pan and cover tightly with foil.
3. Bake for 15 minutes per pound, until heated through.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5. Stir in honey, brown sugar, mustard, cloves, and cinnamon.
6. Remove ham from oven and increase temperature to 400°F.
7. Brush glaze generously over ham.
8. Return to oven uncovered for 15–20 minutes, basting once.
9. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Recipe #2: Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

These scalloped potatoes are rich, tender, and layered with creamy goodness. The edges turn golden while the center stays soft and indulgent. A must-have side dish for Easter ham or lamb. Ideal for make-ahead holiday prep.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
5. Stir in salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Layer half the potatoes in the baking dish.
7. Pour half the sauce over potatoes and sprinkle with cheese.
8. Repeat layers.
9. Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes.
10. Uncover and bake 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Recipe #3: Traditional Deviled Eggs

Creamy, tangy, and always the first to disappear, deviled eggs are a classic Easter appetizer. They’re smooth with just the right bite of mustard. Great for brunch tables or pre-dinner snacking. Easy to prep ahead and transport.

Ingredients

• 12 large eggs
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions

1. Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and cover for 12 minutes.
3. Transfer eggs to ice water and cool completely.
4. Peel eggs and slice in half lengthwise.
5. Remove yolks and place in a bowl.
6. Mash yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
7. Spoon or pipe mixture into egg whites.
8. Sprinkle lightly with paprika before serving.

Recipe #4: Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots

These roasted carrots are tender inside with lightly crisp edges. Garlic butter adds rich flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness. A colorful, simple Easter side dish that pairs well with any main.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Place carrots on a large baking sheet.
3. Mix melted butter with garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour mixture over carrots and toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread carrots in a single layer.
6. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Recipe #5: Classic Easter Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and lightly buttery, these dinner rolls complete any traditional Easter menu. They’re warm, comforting, and perfect for soaking up gravy or ham juices. Great for beginners trying homemade bread for the first time.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with sugar.
2. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and salt.
4. Gradually mix in flour until dough forms.
5. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8 minutes.
6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and rise 1 hour.
7. Punch down dough and divide into equal rolls.
8. Place in a greased baking dish.
9. Cover and rise 30 minutes.
10. Bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes until golden.

Recipe #6: Herb-Roasted Leg of Lamb

This herb-roasted leg of lamb is tender, juicy, and packed with classic Easter flavor. Fresh herbs and garlic create a savory crust while the meat stays moist inside. It’s a traditional Easter main dish that feels special without being complicated. Best served for a formal Easter dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in leg of lamb (5–6 pounds)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Pat lamb dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub mixture all over the lamb.
5. Place lamb on a rack in a roasting pan.
6. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
7. Roast uncovered for 20 minutes.
8. Reduce oven to 350°F and roast 60–75 minutes until desired doneness.
9. Remove from oven and rest 15 minutes before slicing.

Recipe #7: Classic Green Bean Casserole

Creamy, crunchy, and comforting, this green bean casserole is an Easter side dish staple. The tender beans and crispy onion topping create the perfect texture contrast. It pairs beautifully with ham or lamb and is easy to prep ahead.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups milk
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup French fried onions
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Boil green beans in salted water for 5 minutes; drain.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
5. Stir in milk and mushroom soup until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine green beans with sauce and transfer to baking dish.
8. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
9. Top with fried onions and bake 10 more minutes.

Recipe #8: Traditional Easter Pea Salad

This creamy pea salad adds freshness and crunch to any Easter menu. Sweet peas, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing create a balanced bite. It’s a no-cook side dish that’s perfect for spring gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen peas, thawed
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add peas and gently stir to coat.
3. Fold in cheddar cheese and red onion.
4. Stir in crumbled bacon.
5. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
6. Stir lightly before placing on the table.

Recipe #9: Classic Bread Stuffing

This traditional bread stuffing is moist, savory, and full of comforting flavor. Herbs, celery, and onion give it that familiar holiday taste. It’s a versatile Easter side dish that works well alongside ham or lamb.

Ingredients

• 8 cups day-old bread cubes
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Spread bread cubes in a large bowl.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Sauté onion and celery until softened.
5. Stir in poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour mixture over bread cubes.
7. Add chicken broth and eggs; mix gently.
8. Transfer to greased baking dish.
9. Cover and bake 30 minutes.
10. Uncover and bake 15 minutes until golden.

Recipe #10: Classic Lemon Pound Cake

Bright, buttery, and tender, this lemon pound cake is a perfect Easter dessert. The citrus flavor adds a fresh spring finish to a hearty meal. Serve it plain or with berries for a simple yet elegant ending.

Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ½ cup whole milk

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a loaf pan.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Mix in lemon juice and zest.
6. Alternate adding flour mixture and milk.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan.
8. Bake 70–75 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool 15 minutes before removing from pan.

Recipe #11: Classic Pineapple Glazed Ham

This pineapple glazed ham is sweet, savory, and deeply nostalgic. Juicy ham pairs with a sticky fruit glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It’s a traditional Easter dinner favorite that feels festive and familiar. Ideal for large gatherings and holiday leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup water
• Pineapple slices (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan, cut-side down.
3. Cover loosely with foil and heat for 15 minutes per pound.
4. In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, and mustard.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Stir cornstarch with water and whisk into glaze.
7. Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
8. Remove foil and brush glaze over ham.
9. Bake uncovered 15–20 minutes until glossy.
10. Rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Recipe #12: Traditional Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is rich, smooth, and comforting, making it a perfect Easter side dish. The creamy sauce coats tender greens without overpowering them. It’s a classic addition that pairs especially well with lamb.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh spinach
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

1. Wash spinach thoroughly.
2. Wilt spinach in a large skillet over medium heat; drain excess liquid.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
5. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
6. Slowly whisk in milk and cream.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
8. Stir in spinach until well coated.
9. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.

Recipe #13: Classic Easter Macaroni and Cheese

This baked macaroni and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and crowd-approved. The golden top adds a slight crunch while the inside stays rich and smooth. It’s a comfort-food favorite that works for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly.
6. Stir until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and add cheeses, salt, and pepper.
8. Combine sauce with macaroni.
9. Transfer to baking dish and bake 25–30 minutes.

Recipe #14: Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns are soft, lightly spiced, and dotted with dried fruit. They’re a symbolic Easter bread with just the right touch of sweetness. Serve them warm for Easter breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¾ cup raisins
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk with sugar; let foam.
2. Add butter, egg, spices, and salt.
3. Mix in flour until dough forms.
4. Knead dough 8 minutes until smooth.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Place in greased bowl, cover, and rise 1 hour.
7. Shape into buns and place on baking sheet.
8. Let rise 30 minutes.
9. Bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes.

Recipe #15: Classic Easter Fruit Salad

Light, refreshing, and colorful, this fruit salad balances out richer Easter dishes. Fresh fruit with a simple citrus glaze makes it bright and crowd-friendly. It’s perfect for brunch spreads or as a lighter dessert option.

Ingredients

• 2 cups strawberries, sliced
• 2 cups pineapple chunks
• 2 cups grapes
• 2 cups mandarin oranges
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Combine all fruit in a large serving bowl.
2. Whisk orange juice, honey, and lemon zest.
3. Pour dressing over fruit.
4. Gently toss to coat.
5. Chill 30 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

Bringing together a memorable Easter meal doesn’t require complicated recipes or hours in the kitchen. With these 15 traditional Easter menu ideas, you have a complete, well-balanced spread that covers everything from classic mains to comforting sides and simple desserts.

Each dish is rooted in familiar flavors, making them easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy with family and friends.

Whether you’re hosting a large Easter dinner, planning a relaxed brunch, or contributing to a potluck, these recipes are designed to work together seamlessly. Save this roundup for future holidays, mix and match based on your crowd, and don’t be afraid to make a few of them your own family traditions.