Perfect Easter Roast Lamb (or Ham) & Classic Sides for a Memorable Feast

Easter is a time of renewal, celebration, and gathering around the table with loved ones. For many, the centerpiece of that gathering is a beautifully cooked roast – often a succulent leg of lamb or a glistening glazed ham. Planning your Easter dinner recipes can feel like a big task, but with the right approach, you can create a truly memorable and delicious feast without unnecessary stress.

This guide provides reliable recipes for a perfect Easter roast lamb and a crowd-pleasing glazed Easter ham, along with essential classic Easter sides that complement them perfectly. Let’s create an Easter meal your family will discuss for years!

The Showstopper: Perfect Easter Roast Lamb Recipe

The lamb is deeply traditional for Easter, symbolizing spring and new beginnings. A roasted leg of lamb, infused with herbs and garlic, is impressive yet surprisingly straightforward.

Yields: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1.5 – 2.5 hours (depending on size and desired doneness) + resting time

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in leg of lamb (approx. 5-7 lbs / 2.2-3.2 kg)
• 4-6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Small incisions made in the lamb to stuff garlic slivers

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Remove the lamb from the refrigerator about 1 hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels (this helps achieve a crispier skin). If desired, make small slits all over the lamb and insert the garlic slivers.
2. Make the Herb Rub: In a small bowl, combine the chopped rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If not stuffing garlic, add minced or crushed garlic to this mixture.
3. Season the Lamb: Rub the herb mixture evenly all over the leg of the lamb, pressing it into the meat.
4. Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the lamb on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 20-30 minutes at a higher temperature to get a nice brown crust.
5. Lower Temperature & Continue Roasting: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Continue roasting. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part (avoiding bone) to check for doneness:
   • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
   • Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
   • Medium-Well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
   • Estimate roughly 15-20 minutes per pound for medium-rare, but always rely on the thermometer.
6. Rest is Crucial: Once the lamb reaches your desired temperature, remove it from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to be redistributed, resulting in a tender, juicier roast.
7. Carve & Serve: Carve the lamb against the grain and serve immediately.

Delicious Alternative: Glazed Easter Ham Recipe

If lamb isn’t your preference, a beautiful glazed ham is an equally fantastic centerpiece for your Easter dinner.

Yields: Varies greatly depending on ham size
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: Varies (check package directions, usually 15-20 min/lb)

Ingredients:

• 1 fully cooked bone-in or spiral-cut ham (size according to your needs)
• Whole cloves (optional, for studying)
• For the Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or orange juice
  • Optional: Pinch of ground cloves or cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven according to the ham package directions (usually around 325°F/160°C). Place the ham, cut side down, in a roasting pan. If using a whole ham, you may want to score the fat cap in a diamond pattern and stud it with cloves. For spiral-cut, proceed to step 2.
2. Initial Bake: If your ham needs heating through (check package), cover it loosely with foil and bake according to the time specified (often 10-15 minutes per pound).
3. Make the Glaze: While the ham is heating, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup/honey, Dijon mustard, and vinegar/juice in a small saucepan. Heat gently over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.
4. Glaze the Ham: About 20-30 minutes before the ham is finished heating, remove the foil. Brush the ham generously with about half of the glaze.
5. Finish Baking & Glaze Again: Return the ham to the oven, uncovered. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze. Continue baking until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized, and the ham is heated through (internal temperature of 140°F/60°C for pre-cooked hams).
6. Rest & Serve: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Classic Easter Sides to Complete Your Feast

No Easter dinner is complete without the classic Easter sides! Here are three favorites that pair beautifully with both lamb and ham.

1. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

A comforting, cheesy classic. Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce until tender and golden.

• Key Ingredients: Russet potatoes, heavy cream or milk, Gruyere or cheddar cheese, garlic, onion (optional), butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
• Method: Layer thinly sliced potatoes with cheese and seasonings in a buttered baking dish. Pour the cream/milk mixture over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes or until tender and bubbly with a golden top.

2. Lemony Roasted Asparagus

Simple, elegant, and screams springtime.

• Key Ingredients: Fresh asparagus spears, olive oil, lemon (zest and juice), salt, pepper, garlic powder (optional).
• Method: Toss trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Roast on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, until tender-crisp. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with zest just before serving.

3. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the plate.

• Key Ingredients: Carrots (peeled and sliced or whole baby carrots), butter or olive oil, honey or maple syrup, salt, pepper, fresh parsley or thyme (optional).
• Method: Sauté carrots in butter/oil until slightly tender. Add honey/maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender and glazed. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Alternatively, toss carrots with ingredients and roast alongside the asparagus.

Creating a memorable Easter feast is all about pairing a showstopping main course like a perfect Easter roast lamb or a delicious glazed ham with beloved classic Easter sides. With these reliable Easter dinner recipes, you’re well on your way to a joyful and delicious celebration.

Happy Easter cooking!

Ellie Williams