Top Easter Recipes of the Year: What Southern Living Readers Love Most
As Easter approaches, families nationwide are planning their holiday menus with care, and Southern Living has revealed its most beloved Easter recipes according to reader preferences. From classic casseroles to indulgent desserts, this curated list offers time-tested Southern traditions and fresh favorites for your spring celebration. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a cozy family brunch, these popular dishes are sure to inspire your Easter table.
Why Traditional Easter Recipes Still Shine
Southern cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition, and this is most evident during holidays. Easter, symbolizing renewal and rebirth, is often celebrated with a hearty meal after morning church services. Readers gravitate toward recipes that evoke nostalgia and celebrate the bounty of spring — a time for fresh vegetables, glazed hams, and homestyle casseroles that have been passed down for generations.
The Role of Seasonal Ingredients
Easter menus often highlight seasonal produce. Asparagus, carrots, greens, strawberries, and citrus fruits play starring roles across appetizers, mains, and desserts. Southern Living’s top recipes reflect this emphasis, helping readers connect with the season while creating dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Most Popular Southern Living Easter Recipes
According to reader engagement, these are the most beloved Easter recipes of the year, showcasing a balance of savory main dishes, comforting sides, and show-stopping desserts.
1. Brown Sugar-Glazed Ham
No Southern Easter table is complete without a perfectly cooked ham, and Southern Living’s Brown Sugar-Glazed Ham has earned its top spot. This recipe combines the salty richness of ham with a sweet glaze made from brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Slow-cooked to perfection, this centerpiece is both flavorful and irresistibly tender.
Why readers love it: The glaze caramelizes beautifully and adds a sophisticated touch with minimal effort, making it ideal for hosts wanting a worry-free main course.
2. Deviled Eggs Three Ways
A staple at any Easter potluck, deviled eggs made the list — this time with a twist. Southern Living’s Deviled Eggs Three Ways explores unique flavors such as avocado, bacon-jalapeño, and pimento cheese.
Why readers love it: Versatile, crowd-pleasing, and easy to prepare ahead of time, these variations give a fresh spin to a Southern classic.
3. Cheesy Potato Casserole
This dish is a reader-favorite for a reason. The Cheesy Potato Casserole combines tender hash browns with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy cornflake topping, delivering warm, creamy comfort in every bite.
Why readers love it: It’s affordable, simple to make, and serves a crowd — making it a go-to for large Easter gatherings.
4. Asparagus Tart
The Asparagus Tart made with puff pastry, cream cheese, and fresh asparagus is not only delicious but also an eye-catching dish that brightens any table.
Why readers love it: It’s a light, seasonal side that feels gourmet but uses only a few ingredients. Perfect for brunch or lunch, this tart is both elegant and satisfying.
5. Classic Southern Mac and Cheese
Nothing hits the spot like a creamy, gooey dish of Southern Mac and Cheese. This version pays homage to tradition—no gimmicks, just elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar, and a rich, egg-based custard.
Why readers love it: It’s pure comfort food that’s loved by all generations. Plus, the golden crust on top adds irresistible texture.
6. Pineapple Casserole
If you’ve never tried pineapple casserole, Easter is the perfect time to test it out. This beloved Southern side dish blends crushed pineapple, cheddar cheese, and buttery Ritz crackers.
Why readers love it: Sweet, salty, and quirky – it’s a dish that surprises newcomers and delights returning fans alike.
7. Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A timeless dessert, Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a natural Easter favorite. This top-rated recipe features moist, spiced cake layers studded with pecans and shredded carrots, all smothered in tangy cream cheese icing.
Why readers love it: It’s the perfect combination of comforting and celebratory. The flavors scream spring, and the presentation is always stunning.
8. Lemon Bars
Zesty and bright, Lemon Bars are another top contender when it comes to Easter desserts. The buttery shortbread crust pairs perfectly with the tart lemon filling, making them a refreshing finish to a hearty meal.
Why readers love it: They’re easy to serve and perfect for sharing — not to mention ideal for those who aren’t big fans of heavy desserts.
Easter Menu Planning Tips from Southern Readers
Southern Living readers not only look for delicious recipes but also value practicality and presentation. Here are a few Easter menu planning tips inspired by these favorite recipes:
- Balance your menu: Include a mix of savory, sweet, and fresh dishes. A glazed ham pairs best with light sides like asparagus tarts or deviled eggs.
- Make-ahead dishes: Choose recipes that can be prepared in advance, such as casseroles and desserts, to ease the stress on Easter Sunday.
- Incorporate freshness: Seasonal fruits like strawberries and lemons add a refreshing flavor contrast to baked and fried foods.
- Visual appeal matters: Choose colorful vegetables, garnishes, and pastries to create a vibrant Easter spread.
Final Thoughts: Gathering Around the Easter Table
Easter is more than a meal — it’s a time to connect with loved ones and celebrate togetherness. These top Easter recipes from Southern Living readers prove that the best dishes are ones that honor tradition while embracing a little creativity. From sweet-savory pineapple casserole to the classic appeal of deviled eggs and ham, these favorites reflect the warmth and generosity the South is known for.
This Easter, take a page from the Southern Living playbook and treat your guests to unforgettable flavors and heartfelt memories — one delicious recipe at a time.
