17 Easter recipes that might just steal the show from the candy

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No offense to chocolate bunnies, but these 17 Easter recipes are showing up with a bit more energy. They work for big family meals or smaller get-togethers without causing kitchen chaos. Some are quick, others are a bit extra—but all have one goal: steal the spotlight. Hide the jellybeans, these are the real headliners, and they’re not sharing stage time.

A pot of Colcannon with Kale, with a wooden spoon lifting a portion.
Colcannon with Kale. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon

A black bowl filled with Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon with a spoon on the side.
Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon brings a hearty and comforting option to the table, combining familiar ingredients in a way that feels both innovative and deeply traditional. It’s the perfect side dish for anyone looking to add a bit of rustic charm to their meal. With every bite, you’ll find yourself appreciating the perfect balance of textures and the homey touch that bacon adds.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage & Potatoes with Bacon

Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

A Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is placed on a wooden board, garnished with sprigs of rosemary.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When you’re thinking about what to serve for a standout meal, Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham could easily be your centerpiece. Its sweet outer layer complements the salty ham, creating a balance that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a show-stopper that looks as good as it tastes, promising to spark conversations around the dinner table. This ham is not just food; it’s a conversation starter, a reason to gather and share a meal.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box

Close-up of a cheesy broccoli and rice casserole in a baking dish, with a serving removed, showing melted cheese, rice, broccoli, and garnished parsley.
Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box is all about bringing comfort and nostalgia to the fore. This dish serves as a bridge between generations, carrying the warmth and wisdom of grandma’s cooking into today’s kitchens. It’s perfect for those who appreciate meals that taste like a hug feels. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into a creamy, irresistible side dish.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole from Grandma’s Recipe Box

Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Plate of Deviled Egg Pasta Salad on a wooden table, accompanied by three forks and a blue plaid napkin.
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

This salad combines two picnic classics into one convenient dish, making it a practical choice for any host. It’s as if your favorite parts of the meal decided to team up. Deviled Egg Pasta Salad is creamy, tangy, and has a slight crunch, ensuring that every forkful is full of interest. It’s the kind of dish that invites you back for seconds, even when you’re claiming you’ve had enough.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Egg Pasta Salad

Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese

A rectangular pan of Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese, partially sliced, showing layers.
Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

If you’re looking for comfort in a dish, Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese could easily become your go-to. It layers slices of potato with ham and a creamy sauce, then tops everything off with a generous helping of cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite. For many, it strikes the perfect balance between meaty, cheesy, and starchy elements.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese

Lemon Cake Pops

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

For a light and sweet treat, Lemon Cake Pops are hard to beat. They offer the perfect bite-sized indulgence, ideal for when you want just a little something sweet without committing to a whole slice of cake. Their bright, cheerful appearance makes them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they’re fun to make, decorate, and share, embodying the playful spirit of dessert time.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

Traeger Smoked Turkey

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

Traeger Smoked Turkey takes your meal to a whole new level with its deep, smoky aroma and juicy meat that falls right off the bone. Cooking it might be a slow process, but the end result is well worth the wait. This dish is a surefire way to impress your guests, showing off your skills without having to spend the whole day in the kitchen. It’s a modern twist on a traditional dish that has everyone asking for your secret.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Grandma’s Salmon Cakes

Two Salmon Cakes on a white plate with mixed leafy greens and a lemon wedge.
Grandma’s Salmon Cakes. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Grandma’s Salmon Cakes have a way of making an ordinary meal feel special. They pack a lot of nutrition and flavor into a convenient, easy-to-eat form. Not only do they make a great centerpiece for a casual meal, but they’re also a smart choice for adding protein to your diet in a tasty way. It’s a recipe that has stood the test of time for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Salmon Cakes

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.

There’s nothing quite like fresh-baked Butter Scones to accompany your morning or afternoon cup of tea or coffee. They strike the perfect balance between soft and crumbly, rich yet not too heavy. Each bite melts in your mouth, making it hard to stop at just one. They’re versatile, too, pairing equally well with jams, creams, or even just a bit of butter.
Get the Recipe: Butter Scones

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

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

For a fresh twist at your meal table, try Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy combining vegetables in a light and nutritious way. This dish can be a standout side that complements any main course with ease. It’s easy to prepare and packs a punch of all-natural flavors.
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 could easily become the conversation piece of your Easter gathering. They’re individually portioned which makes them super convenient for serving. Each cup offers a bite of sweetness perfect for rounding off a festive meal. They are also fun for kids and adults alike to enjoy after a hearty celebration.
Get the Recipe: Easter Dessert Cups

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets with lemon wedges on a black plate.
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish turn humble ingredients into fancy bite-sized treats. Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets are crisp on the outside, and neatly packed with a creamy filling that melts in your mouth. Whether served as an appetizer or a light main dish, these tartlets are sure to impress guests. The combination and presentation make them hard to resist at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nothing screams comfort like Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls on a festive morning. Combining the warm, inviting aroma of apple pie with the snug feel of cinnamon rolls, this treat brings joy with every bite. It’s a great alternative to traditional desserts and perfect for a relaxed holiday breakfast. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Roasted Carrot Hummus

Bowl of Roasted Carrot Hummus garnished with green herbs, with a spoon drizzling oil above it.
Roasted Carrot Hummus. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Roasted Carrot Hummus offers a creative take on a traditional spread. It’s perfect for those looking for something a little different from the usual appetizers. The rich color and smooth texture make it visually appealing, while its unique taste captures your interest from the first dip. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippables.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Carrot Hummus

Easter Bunny Treats

Three Easter Bunny Treats desserts made of coconut-covered balls with walnut feet and white candy decorations are on a gray plate with green candy shards.
Easter Bunny Treats. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These treats are charming and just right for adding a dash of whimsy to your celebrations. They’re surprisingly simple to make, yet look like you’ve put in a ton of effort. Easter Bunny Treats not only make great snacks but also double as adorable decor for the Easter table. Great for keeping the kids entertained, too!
Get the Recipe: Easter Bunny Treats

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.

Served hot, Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole is all about comfort and warmth from the inside out. This dish revives the old-time favorite with a hint that someone’s grandma made it with a lot of heart. It goes very well with any protein and can stand as a fulfilling dish on its own. This casserole might just become a new tradition at your Easter dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Colcannon with Kale

A pot of Colcannon with Kale, with a wooden spoon lifting a portion.
Colcannon with Kale. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Stir a bit of green into your feast with Colcannon with Kale. It’s a robust dish that brings together potatoes and kale in a hearty, homely mix. This side dish is great for anyone wanting to incorporate more greens in their meals without compromising on taste. It stands out on the dinner table and fills you up just right.
Get the Recipe: Colcannon with Kale

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