15 Easter Dinner Ideas for a Festive and Flavorful Celebration

Spring is in the air, flowers are blooming, and Easter is just around the corner! It’s the perfect time to gather with family and friends for a festive and memorable meal.

Whether you’re planning a grand feast or a cozy dinner, we’ve got you covered with a variety of Easter dinner ideas that will delight everyone at your table.

From succulent roasted lamb to creamy scalloped potatoes and fresh spring salads, our recipes are designed to make your Easter celebration extra special.

So, dust off your favorite apron, set the table with your best china, and let’s create a holiday feast that will be talked about for years to come!

Dive into our collection of Easter dinner ideas and discover new family favorites that are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday gathering.

1. Honey Glazed Ham

This classic Easter centerpiece is flavoured with a sweet and sticky honey glaze. Simple to prepare, a bone-in ham is coated in a mixture of honey, brown sugar, mustard, and spices, then baked until tender and juicy.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover with foil. Bake for 1.5 hours.
3. In a saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat until sugar dissolves.
4. Remove the ham from the oven, uncover, and brush generously with the glaze.
5. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, basting with the glaze every 10 minutes.
6. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serve With

• Scalloped potatoes
• Roasted asparagus with Parmesan cheese

Drink With

• A chilled glass of Riesling or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir.

2. Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

This elegant Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is perfect for a special dinner or a fancy weekend meal. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon zest creates a flavorful crust that complements the tender, juicy lamb perfectly.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 racks of lamb, frenched
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary
• 1/4 cup fresh thyme
• 4 garlic cloves
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, combine parsley, rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Season the lamb racks with salt and pepper, then coat with the herb mixture.
4. Place the lamb on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing into individual chops.

Serve With

• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon

Drink With

• A robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

3. Scalloped Potatoes

A creamy and comforting side dish, scalloped potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to Easter dinner. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered in a baking dish with cream, cheese, and a hint of nutmeg, then baked until golden brown and bubbly.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and cook until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. Layer half of the potatoes in a greased baking dish, followed by half of the onions, cream sauce, and cheese. Repeat layers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Serve With

• Honey glazed ham
• Roasted spring vegetables

Drink With

• A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

4. Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan Cheese

Simple yet delicious, roasted asparagus is a great way to celebrate the spring season. Asparagus spears are tossed with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, then roasted until tender-crisp. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory touch.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes, until tender.
4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately.

Serve With

• Herb-crusted rack of lamb
• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes

Drink With

• A refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

5. Deviled Eggs

Deviled Eggs are a classic appetizer that never goes out of style. Creamy, tangy, and with a hint of spice, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering. They are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions

1. Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes.
2. Transfer eggs to ice water to cool. Peel and halve lengthwise.
3. Remove yolks and place in a mixing bowl. Mash yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into egg whites.
5. Sprinkle with paprika and serve.

Serve With

• Spring pea and mint salad
• Honey glazed ham

Drink With

• A light and crisp sparkling wine like Prosecco.

6. Spring Pea and Mint Salad

Fresh and vibrant, this Spring Pea and Mint Salad is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season. The sweet peas and fresh mint create a refreshing combination, perfect for a light and healthy side dish.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen peas, thawed
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine peas, mint, red onion, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve With

• Deviled eggs
• Herb-crusted rack of lamb

Drink With

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé.

7. Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is moist, flavorful, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining warm spices and sweet carrots in every bite.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar until thick and pale. Gradually add oil, beating until blended.
4. Stir in the flour mixture until combined. Fold in grated carrots, pineapple, and walnuts (if using).
5. Divide batter between the prepared pans and bake for 30-40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
7. Frost the cooled cakes and stack them. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve With

• Fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Drink With

• A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.

8. Lemon Pound Cake

Bright and zesty, this Lemon Pound Cake is the perfect treat for lemon lovers. It’s dense, moist, and bursting with citrus flavor, making it an excellent choice for dessert or a sweet afternoon snack.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
4. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve With

• Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream

Drink With

• A cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade.

9. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon are crispy, savory, and absolutely delicious. The smoky bacon adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the caramelized Brussels sprouts, making this side dish irresistible.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Scatter chopped bacon over the top.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy.
4. Serve immediately.

Serve With

• Herb-crusted rack of lamb
• Scalloped potatoes

Drink With

• A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir.

10. Honey Glazed Carrots

Another classic Easter side dish, honey glazed carrots are simple to make and always satisfying. Baby carrots are roasted until tender, then coated in a sticky glaze made with honey, butter, and spices.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and cook carrots for 5-7 minutes, until tender. Drain.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in honey, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
3. Add the carrots to the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve immediately.

Serve With

• Honey glazed ham
• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes

Drink With

• A glass of chilled white wine like Riesling or Moscato.

11. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Rich, smooth, and infused with garlic flavor, they are the perfect side dish for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, cover potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, until tender. Drain.
2. In the same saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Return potatoes to the saucepan. Mash until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately.

Serve With

• Herb-crusted rack of lamb
• Honey glazed carrots

Drink With

• A rich, buttery Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir.

12. Pineapple Casserole

Sweet and savory, this Pineapple Casserole is a unique and delicious side dish. The combination of pineapple, cheese, and buttery cracker topping creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine sugar and flour. Stir in pineapple and cheese.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In another bowl, combine crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the pineapple mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serve With

• Honey glazed ham
• Spring pea and mint salad

Drink With

• A glass of sparkling wine or a sweet Riesling.

13. Roasted Spring Vegetables

Roasted Spring Vegetables are a colorful and healthy side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of seasonal vegetables. Simply roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper, they make a perfect accompaniment to any main course.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
• 1 pound baby carrots
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place all the vegetables on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve immediately.

Serve With

• Honey glazed ham
• Scalloped potatoes

Drink With

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

14. Glazed Ham Steaks

Quick and easy, these Glazed Ham Steaks are perfect for a weeknight dinner. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully on the ham, creating a delicious and satisfying main course.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 ham steaks
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ham steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
3. Brush the glaze over the ham steaks and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized.
4. Serve immediately.

Serve With

• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon

Drink With

• A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay.

15. Lemon Blueberry Scones

These Lemon Blueberry Scones are a delightful treat for breakfast or tea time. They are light, flaky, and bursting with the flavors of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee!

Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gently fold in the blueberries and lemon zest.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg. Pour into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a circle. Cut into wedges and place on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serve With

• Fresh fruit or a dollop of clotted cream

Drink With

• A hot cup of tea or a cappuccino.

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