9 Delicious Amish-Kissed Easter Dinner Dish Ideas

Easter is a holiday of high importance for the Amish. Amish people remember the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ on this day. Like other Americans, it is also a special day for family gatherings and food. These nine Amish-inspired dishes are sure to provide a bit of Pennsylvania Dutch flavor to your Easter table. ~Erik

1. Classic Amish Macaroni Salad

Classic Amish macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, tangy flavors with bright, crunchy veggies. It’s easy to whip up and makes for a perfect side dish at any gathering, especially during Easter celebrations. The combination of tender macaroni, crunchy vegetables, and vinegar-mustard-and-mayo dressing gives it a satisfying taste that everyone will enjoy.

This salad is not only simple to prepare but also versatile. You can add your favorite vegetables or even some diced ham for extra flavor. It’s a dish that can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced pickles or relish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, vinegar, and mustard. Mix well.
3. Add the cooled macaroni, celery, bell peppers, onions, and pickles to the bowl. Stir to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.

2. Baked Sweet Corn Pudding

Baked sweet corn pudding is a delightful side dish that taps sweet corn, common to Amish gardens, to bring a touch of comfort to any meal. This creamy, slightly sweet dish is perfect for your Easter dinner, offering a wonderful contrast to savory dishes. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, it easily becomes a family favorite.

Making sweet corn pudding is simple and requires just a few ingredients. It’s a dish that combines the sweetness of corn with eggs and milk. Perfect for gathering around the table, this pudding is both easy to prepare and delicious!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn (thawed)
• 1 cup milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine corn, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delightful baked sweet corn pudding.

3. Amish-Style Meatloaf with a Sweet Twist

Amish-Style Meatloaf is a comforting classic which brings a sense of home to the dinner table, featuring a harmonious blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and savory seasonings.

It is a dish that embodies warmth and familiarity, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy a hearty meal together, at Easter or any time of the year. The juicy texture and rich flavors make it a staple for family dinners and gatherings.

The highlight of this dish is undoubtedly the brown sugar glaze that crowns the meatloaf. It adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly contrasts with the savory profile of the meat, ensuring every bite is memorable.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for glaze)
• 1/3 cup ketchup (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for glaze

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, green bell pepper, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet.
4. Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Pour half of the glaze over the meatloaf, reserving the other half for later.
5. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 1 hour.
6. Add the Remaining Glaze: After 1 hour, spread the remaining glaze over the top of the meatloaf and return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
7. Let it Rest: Once done, allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors.

4. Garden Fresh Green Bean Casserole

Garden Fresh green bean casserole is a comforting dish that perfectly complements any Easter dinner. With its creamy texture and savory topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together around the table. The balance of fresh green beans and rich flavors makes it both satisfying and refreshing.

This recipe is simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy holiday cooking. Just a few ingredients come together to create a delicious side dish that pairs beautifully with ham, turkey, or any festive main course. Your guests will appreciate the homemade touch, and you’ll love its ease.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the green beans for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Add the cooked green beans to the mixture and gently fold until the beans are well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top with half of the crispy fried onions.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, stir gently, and add the remaining fried onions (and additional green beans, if you like) on top.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

5. Uncle Abner’s Traditional Coleslaw

Uncle Abner’s Traditional Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that’s perfect for any Easter dinner. Its creamy dressing combined with crisp cabbage and colorful veggies creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This dish is not only simple to make but also a crowd-pleaser that complements any main course.

The tangy sweetness of the dressing pairs beautifully with the crunch of the cabbage and carrots, making it a light and satisfying option for your holiday table. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this classic Amish coleslaw effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, and grated carrots.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve chilled as a side dish at your Easter dinner.

6. Herb-Crusted Roasted Chicken

This Herb-Crusted Roasted Chicken is a delightful addition to your Easter dinner table. The blend of fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering crust that seals in the juiciness of the chicken, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. It’s a simple recipe that makes a big impression, perfect for gatherings with family and friends.

This roasted chicken is seasoned with a fragrant blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, creating a delicious crust that seals in moisture. The result? A succulent chicken that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for any gathering.

With its golden, crispy skin and aromatic herbs, this chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers a comforting taste that resonates with traditional Amish cooking. Serve it alongside seasonal vegetables for a wholesome meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1 onion, quartered
• Optional: additional herbs for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy skin.
3. Make the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, parsley, and minced garlic.
4. Season the Chicken: Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for maximum flavor. Place lemon wedges and onion quarters inside the cavity.
5. Roast: Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

7. Homemade Dinner Rolls

Homemade dinner rolls are a staple in Amish-inspired meals, offering a warm, comforting addition to any Easter dinner. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and have a slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with savory dishes. They’re simple to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers!

Imagine pulling a batch of golden-brown rolls out of the oven, their warm aroma filling your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them plain or slathered with butter, these rolls are sure to become a favorite at your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk, warmed
• 2 large eggs

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. Then, stir in the melted butter, eggs, and salt before gradually adding the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for around 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
3. Shape the Rolls: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each roll.
4. Final Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake the Rolls: Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm with butter.

8. Glazed Carrots with Honey and Thyme

Glazed carrots with honey and thyme are a delightful side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and earthiness to your Easter dinner. The natural sweetness of the carrots, a common Amish home garden vegetable, pairs perfectly with the honey, while thyme (another found in Amish herb gardens) adds a subtle herbal note. This recipe is easy to prepare and adds vibrant color to your table, making it an excellent choice for any festive gathering.

Not only are these glazed carrots simple to make, but they also offer a satisfying crunch and a lovely glaze that makes them truly irresistible. They can be prepared in just a few steps, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby carrots
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carrots: Rinse the baby carrots under cold water. If using larger carrots, peel and cut them into uniform pieces.
2. Cook the Carrots: In a large skillet, add the carrots along with a splash of water. Cover and cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add Honey and Butter: Uncover the skillet and add honey, butter, and thyme. Stir well to coat the carrots.
4. Glaze the Carrots: Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5-7 minutes until the carrots are tender and glazed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with additional thyme if desired. Enjoy your flavorful side dish!

9. Creamy Potato & Ham Casserole

Creamy Potato & Ham Casserole is a comforting dish tapping Pennsylvania Dutch foodways that brings warmth to any Easter dinner. With tender potatoes combined with savory ham and a rich, creamy sauce, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. This casserole is not only delicious but also simple to make, perfect for those busy holiday preparations.

Each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a staple for family gatherings. Easy to assemble and bake, it allows you to focus on enjoying the Easter season with your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 cups diced potatoes
• 2 cups diced ham
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, ham, soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are coated.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.
4. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.