Next Up

25 Easter Dinner Ideas That Are Better Than Ham

Updated on March 04, 2024

If you're tired of making the same main dish year after year, consider these showstopping alternatives, instead.

1 / 25
Photo: Teri Lyn Fisher

Our Best Easter Mains, Minus the Ham

Ham often gets all the glory on Easter Sunday—but it’s only one of the many mains worthy of being the centerpiece of your holiday meal. Sure, it’s versatile and easy to pair with all sorts of sweet glazes and fragrant spices but so is pork loin. And, yes, it’s impressive when you bring the whole roast to the table but no more so than Easter lamb. Trust us, the list of alternative mains that can anchor your Easter dinner goes on and on. So, whether you’re stuck in a rut and looking to change things up or in need of a vegan or vegetarian option, these impressive main dish ideas are sure to come in handy—starting with Ina’s foolproof lamb. With just 5 ingredients (plus salt and pepper), she turns the roast into a showstopping main that easily serves 10. Best of all, it pairs perfectly with all your favorite Easter sides.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

2 / 25

Roast Chicken with Spring Vegetable Gravy

There’s no reason you can’t dress up a whole chicken for Easter. This simple recipe combines lemon and fennel for a flavor that’s bright and aromatic—and completely different from what you’d make for a regular Sunday dinner.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

3 / 25
Photo: Armando Rafael ©

Portobello Mushroom Lasagna

It’s hard not to fall in love with the flavors of this hearty vegetarian main. It makes an ideal centerpiece for your Easter table too, since the rich, creamy sauce pairs perfectly with many of the spring veggies that are traditional for this holiday.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

4 / 25
Photo: GEOFF GEORGE

Maple Pork Roast with Blue Cheese Crust

Pork loin makes for an impressive main when infused with the flavors of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic and rosemary. A blue cheese crust is the perfect finish, adding a nice, salty bite.

get the recipe

More photos after this Ad

Next Up

We Recommend