17 Make-Ahead Easter Dishes For A Stress-Free Holiday

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17 Make-Ahead Easter Dishes For A Stress-Free Holiday

Getting ready for Easter can sometimes feel like a big task, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Preparing some dishes ahead of time is a great way to reduce stress on the holiday itself. By choosing make-ahead options, you can enjoy more time with family and friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen all day.

Corn fritters in a black cast iron pan.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Cod

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

Who says you can’t have a fancy Easter dinner without spending all day in the kitchen? Mediterranean Cod is your ticket to a delicious, light meal that feels special without the fuss. You can prep it before the big day, making your Easter celebration about spending time with family, not pots and pans.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

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 looking for a breakfast that hits the spot and is ready to go first thing on Easter, Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones are your best friend. Make them ahead to have a stress-free Easter morning that lets you focus on hunting eggs, not scrambling over breakfast. They reheat well, so you can make a big batch and not worry about cooking in the morning.
Get the Recipe: Bacon, Cheddar & Green Onion Scones

Smoked Asparagus

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

Shake up your side dish game for Easter with Smoked Asparagus. It’s simple, it’s different, and you can smoke it ahead of time to make your Easter meal prep a breeze. This dish is all about bringing a unique touch to your holiday table, letting you relax more on the day.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

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

Au Gratin Potato Stacks not only taste amazing but look impressive on your Easter table. Preparing them ahead of time means one less thing to worry about on Easter Sunday, so you can enjoy the holiday stress-free. Plus, they reheat beautifully, ensuring a deliciously crisp and cheesy side dish without last-minute prep.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Two pulled pork eggs benedict on a plate with sauce.
Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mixing up your Easter brunch with something unexpected can be a game changer, Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict is just the dish to do it. Make it ahead of time for an Easter brunch that’s all about enjoying the day and not stuck in the kitchen. It’s a surefire way to impress your guests and make your holiday brunch memorable.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

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

For an Easter centerpiece that keeps you out of the kitchen and with your family, Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a winner. It’s hearty, filled with spices and herbs, and you can make it ahead of time. This means less stress on Easter and more time for fun. Plus, it’s a dish that everyone, from kids to adults, will love.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet Potatoes in the Air Fryer are a lifesaver for a busy Easter. They’re quick, easy, and you can prep them ahead of time for a no-fuss side dish that’s ready in minutes. It’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture, perfect for a hassle-free holiday.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

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

How about Old Fashioned Ham Salad? It’s perfect for a light Easter meal or as an appetizer, and it’s great for making ahead. This way, you get to enjoy more of the holiday and worry less about the food. It’s a classic dish with a twist, serving up traditional Easter flavors in a new way.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

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.

If you’re aiming to wow your guests without spending your whole Easter in the kitchen, Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze are the way to go. Smoke them ahead of time and watch how they become the star of your Easter meal. This dish proves that you can have a stunning main course without the last-minute rush.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs with Red Pepper Glaze

Cold Crab Dip

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

If you’re looking for a no-fuss appetizer that’s big on taste, why not whip up some Cold Crab Dip the day before? It gets richer and creamier as it chills, making your Easter prep a breeze. Plus, it pairs well with anything from crackers to veggies, making your holiday hosting stress-free and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ricotta and Tomato Pasta in a white bowl.
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tossing Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes together ahead of time, letting the fridge do the work for you. It’s a game-changer for a laid-back Easter, as the flavors meld overnight into something really special. This dish is all about keeping things easy and light, freeing up your day to relax instead of rushing around the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Turkey Roll Roast

A piece of roasted turkey on a cutting board with a knife.
Turkey Roll Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Opting for a Turkey Roll Roast this Easter might just be your best decision for a hassle-free holiday. It’s juicy, herb-infused, and totally foolproof, especially when made ahead. Preparing it in advance means you just reheat and serve, leaving more time to spend with family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Roast

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black bowl with forks nearby.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Salmon Pasta Salad prepared the day before can be a refreshing change of pace for your Easter menu. It’s one of those dishes that actually tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to come together overnight. Making your Easter dishes in advance like this one means you’re all set for a stress-free holiday meal
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Braised potatoes in a pan after cooking.
Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you braise Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes ahead of time, you’re setting yourself up for a much more relaxed Easter Sunday. They soak up all the aromatic goodness, becoming even more delicious after a night in the fridge. This make-ahead strategy is perfect for anyone looking to minimize kitchen time during the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

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 as fun to make as they are to eat, especially when you’ve got them all set the day before. Choose your fillings, chill overnight, and you’ve got a dessert that’s as stress-free as it is sweet. Make-ahead Easter treats like these not only save time but also add a special touch to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Easter Dessert Cups

Corn Fritters

Corn fritters in a black cast iron pan.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever tried Corn Fritters? It can easily become your go-to snack or side for a hassle-free Easter meal. Make them ahead, and all you need to do on the day is reheat for that perfect crispy outside and soft inside. It’s about enjoying the holiday as much as your guests do, without being tied to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Seafood Stuffed Salmon on a circular white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Salmon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Preparing Seafood Stuffed Salmon in advance is like giving yourself the gift of time on Easter Sunday. It’s a dish that impresses without requiring last-minute kitchen stress, thanks to its make-ahead magic. It’s all about making your holiday as smooth and enjoyable as possible, for you and your guests alike.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon

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