April is here and spring is in full swing. This collection is packed with dinner recipes, appetizers for spring entertaining, and side dishes for family meals. If the weather turns chilly, you'll find hearty pasta bakes to warm you up. There are also several quick and easy dinner ideas, plus plenty of recipes that put leftover Easter ham to delicious use.
These dishes celebrate the best of April: simple, satisfying, and full of the renewed energy the season brings. Take a look, pick your favorites, and enjoy cooking (and eating!) all month long.
Ham and bean soup
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A hearty, colorful soup made with tender beans, leftover ham, and plenty of flavor. Great as a light dinner, and even better the next day for lunch.
Pizza pasta bake
All the best parts of pizza night baked into a cheesy, saucy pasta casserole. Easy to prep ahead and perfect for busy weeknights.
Deviled eggs
A classic for spring gatherings that always disappears fast. Make them for Easter, brunch, or an easy afternoon snack.
Creamy chicken orzo
A one-pan dinner with tender chicken and orzo in a creamy, flavorful broth. It feels special, but it's simple enough for a weeknight.
Loaded smashed potatoes
Crispy-edged potatoes topped with cheese, bacon, and other favorites. A fun side everyone goes for first. Pairs well with ham, chicken, or anything off the grill.
Green bean casserole
A classic holiday side. Perfect for Easter dinner, but easy enough to make any time you want something familiar on the table.
Ham pasta salad
A spring-friendly pasta salad that's a smart way to use leftover ham. It's easy to prep ahead and perfect for lunch or parties.
Herb orzo salad
A fresh, lighter side with plenty of herbs and bright flavor. Delicious for lunch, or paired with chicken, ham, or fish.
Ham fried rice
A quick way to turn leftover ham into a weeknight dinner that feels new. Add vegetables and dinner comes together fast.
Chicken Swedish meatballs
Tender chicken meatballs in a creamy sauce for a different take on a classic. Serve them over noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Buffalo chicken wrap
A quick, flavorful wrap that makes a tasty lunch or light dinner. Add your favorite toppings and it's an easy way to change up the usual routine.
Tuna noodle casserole
A classic pantry dinner that's creamy, filling, and weeknight friendly. It's simple to make, and the leftovers are just as good the next day.
Skillet lasagna
All the best parts of lasagna, made faster in one skillet. Perfect when you want a hearty dinner without the extra steps.
Everything bagel dip
Creamy, savory, and packed with that everything bagel flavor. A tasty dip for spring gatherings, game day, or movie night.
Italian sausage rigatoni
A baked rigatoni that's hearty, saucy, and packed with Italian sausage. It's a perfect choice for a family dinner, and it reheats well for easy leftovers.
Fried yuca
Crispy on the outside with a tender center, fried yuca is a fun change from the usual fries. Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or side with your favorite dipping sauce.
Twice baked potatoes
Fluffy baked potatoes are scooped, mixed, and stuffed back in with cheese and other favorites. A wonderful side dish for holiday meals, weekend dinners, or make-ahead sides.
Creamy orecchiette with sausage
Orecchiette and sausage are tossed in a creamy sauce with broccoli for an easy, satisfying pasta night. It feels hearty without being too heavy.
Creamed spinach
A rich, simple side that feels right for spring dinners and holiday meals. Serve it with ham, chicken, or steak for an easy upgrade.
Frito pie casserole
A fun bake with big flavor. With an easy chili filling and a crunchy corn chip topping, it's a crowd-pleaser for weeknights or game day.
Tortellini with broccoli
Creamy tortellini and broccoli come together fast for an easy pasta dinner. It's a tasty option for weeknights or a side dish for family dinner.
Andouille sausage puffs
Savory, bite-size puffs with andouille sausage for a little kick. Perfect for parties, game day, or an easy snack.
Ham and cheese casserole
A creamy pasta bake with ham and plenty of melty cheese. It's an easy, satisfying dinner, and the leftovers are great for lunch.
Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
A cheesy, crowd-friendly bake that's perfect for brunch or holiday mornings. It's easy to prep ahead and always goes fast.
French Bread Pizza
A quick pizza night shortcut with crispy edges, sausage, black olive and melty mozzarella. It's a terrific dinner for movie night or a late-night snack.
Mini Shepherd's Pies
Individual pies with a savory filling and a mashed potato topping, baked until golden. A fun, portioned dinner that feels a little special without extra work.
Creamy Chipotle Sauce
A smooth, smoky sauce with a little kick that adds instant flavor. Use it as a dip, drizzle it on wraps, bowls, tacos, or roasted veggies.
Ham and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty soup that makes great use of leftover ham. The wild rice makes it filling, and it tastes even better the next day.
Pork Egg Rolls
Crispy, golden egg rolls with a savory pork filling. A tasty side with an Asian-style dinner, or as a fun party appetizer.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
A creamy, satisfying bake that's perfect for Sunday dinner. It's a comforting favorite that's always a hit.
Thanks so much for being here. Whether you're using up leftover ham, planning an Easter menu, or just looking for easy weeknight dinners, I hope you found a few recipes to add to your list. Happy cooking!
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