Easter Feast on a Budget: Delicious Recipes with Walmart’s Pre-Inflation Prices!

Easter is a time for family, friends, and, of course, a delicious feast! However, with rising grocery prices, planning a memorable Easter meal can feel daunting. The good news? Walmart is dropping prices on key Easter ingredients to pre-inflation levels, making it easier than ever to create a stunning and budget-friendly Easter celebration. This means you can enjoy classic dishes without breaking the bank. We’ve curated a collection of mouthwatering recipes that take full advantage of these price drops, ensuring a delicious and affordable Easter for everyone.

## Walmart’s Easter Price Cuts: What to Expect

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a look at some of the key ingredients that are seeing price reductions at Walmart. Keep an eye out for deals on:

* **Ham:** A centerpiece of many Easter dinners, ham is a classic choice that can feed a crowd. Look for both bone-in and boneless options at reduced prices.
* **Eggs:** Essential for Easter egg hunts and delicious breakfast casseroles, eggs are a staple ingredient for the holiday.
* **Potatoes:** Whether mashed, roasted, or scalloped, potatoes are a versatile side dish that complements any Easter meal.
* **Baking Ingredients:** Flour, sugar, butter, and other baking essentials are crucial for creating Easter desserts and treats. Take advantage of the price drops to stock up on these pantry staples.
* **Easter Candy:** From chocolate bunnies to jelly beans, Easter candy is a must-have for kids and adults alike.
* **Spring Produce:** Asparagus, carrots, and other seasonal produce are at their peak flavor and often available at lower prices during Easter.

Now, let’s get cooking! We’ve crafted a menu of recipes that are both delicious and budget-conscious, all thanks to Walmart’s Easter price cuts.

## The Recipes: A Delicious and Affordable Easter Menu

This menu is designed to be flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences and the number of guests you’re expecting. Each recipe includes detailed instructions and tips for success.

### 1. Glazed Ham with Pineapple Salsa (Serves 8-10)

This classic Easter dish is elevated with a tangy and refreshing pineapple salsa. The sweet glaze complements the savory ham, while the salsa adds a tropical twist.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 (8-10 lb) bone-in or boneless ham
* 1 cup brown sugar, packed
* 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
* 1/4 cup honey
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon ground cloves
* **For the Pineapple Salsa:**
* 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
* 1/2 cup diced red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Ham:** Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Remove ham from packaging and discard any netting or plastic disk on the bone. Place ham in a roasting pan. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
2. **Make the Glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat.
3. **Glaze the Ham:** Brush half of the glaze over the ham. Bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, basting with remaining glaze every 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
4. **Rest the Ham:** Remove ham from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.
5. **Make the Pineapple Salsa:** While the ham is resting, prepare the pineapple salsa. In a medium bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
6. **Carve and Serve:** Carve the ham and serve with pineapple salsa. The contrast of sweet and savory flavors is sure to be a hit!

**Budget Tip:** Opt for a bone-in ham for a more affordable option. You can also use the leftover ham bone to make a delicious soup or stock.

### 2. Deviled Eggs: Three Ways (Makes 12 Deviled Eggs)

Deviled eggs are a classic Easter appetizer that are always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe offers three variations to cater to different tastes.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 large eggs
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon white vinegar
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **Classic Deviled Eggs:** Paprika for garnish
* **Spicy Deviled Eggs:** 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, chopped chives for garnish
* **Avocado Deviled Eggs:** 1/4 ripe avocado, mashed, everything bagel seasoning for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Hard-Boil the Eggs:** Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 12 minutes. Remove from heat and drain the hot water. Immediately rinse the eggs under cold water or place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. **Peel the Eggs:** Gently tap each egg on a hard surface to crack the shell. Peel the eggs under running water.
3. **Prepare the Filling:** Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a medium bowl and mash them with a fork. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and white vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
4. **Create the Variations:**
* **Classic Deviled Eggs:** Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture into the egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
* **Spicy Deviled Eggs:** Stir sriracha sauce into the yolk mixture. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture into the egg whites. Garnish with chopped chives.
* **Avocado Deviled Eggs:** Stir mashed avocado into the yolk mixture. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture into the egg whites. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for garnish.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the deviled eggs and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

**Budget Tip:** Use Walmart’s Great Value brand mayonnaise and mustard to save money. Eggs are also typically cheaper closer to Easter!

### 3. Scalloped Potatoes (Serves 6-8)

Creamy and comforting, scalloped potatoes are a perfect side dish for any Easter meal. This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal ingredients.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
* 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Layer the Potatoes and Onions:** In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the potato slices and half of the onion slices. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and onions.
3. **Make the Cream Sauce:** In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until a smooth paste forms (roux). Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
4. **Pour Sauce and Bake:** Pour the cream sauce evenly over the potatoes and onions. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. **Add Cheese (Optional):** Remove the foil and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. **Rest and Serve:** Let the scalloped potatoes rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken further.

**Budget Tip:** Use Walmart’s Great Value brand potatoes and cheese to save money. You can also omit the cheese altogether for a more budget-friendly version.

### 4. Asparagus with Lemon-Garlic Butter (Serves 4-6)

This simple side dish highlights the fresh flavors of spring. The lemon-garlic butter adds a bright and flavorful touch to the asparagus.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Asparagus:** Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. Rinse the asparagus under cold water.
2. **Melt the Butter:** In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. **Cook the Asparagus:** Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook the asparagus.
4. **Add Lemon Juice:** Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 1 minute more, until the asparagus is coated in the lemon-garlic butter.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Serve asparagus immediately while it’s still hot and flavorful.

**Budget Tip:** Asparagus is often on sale during Easter. Look for bunches that are firm and bright green. You can also substitute green beans if asparagus is not available or affordable.

### 5. Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting (Makes 12 Cupcakes)

These moist and flavorful carrot cake cupcakes are the perfect Easter dessert. The cream cheese frosting adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess.

**Ingredients:**

* **For the Cupcakes:**
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
* **For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
* 8 oz cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. **Make the Cupcake Batter:** In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate large bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in grated carrots and chopped nuts (if using).
3. **Fill Cupcake Liners:** Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
4. **Bake the Cupcakes:** Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. **Cool the Cupcakes:** Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. **Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:** In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. **Frost the Cupcakes:** Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with cream cheese frosting. You can use a piping bag for a decorative look, or simply spread the frosting with a knife.

**Budget Tip:** Use Walmart’s Great Value brand ingredients for the cupcakes and frosting. You can also skip the nuts to save money.

## More Tips for Saving Money on Your Easter Feast

* **Plan Ahead:** Create a menu and shopping list before you head to the store. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and stick to your budget.
* **Shop the Sales:** Take advantage of Walmart’s Easter price drops and other sales. Check your local store’s flyer and website for the best deals.
* **Buy in Bulk:** If you’re hosting a large gathering, consider buying ingredients in bulk. This can often save you money per unit.
* **Use Leftovers:** Get creative with your leftovers! Use leftover ham to make sandwiches, soup, or omelets. Use leftover vegetables in a frittata or stir-fry.
* **Make it a Potluck:** Ask guests to bring a dish to share. This will take some of the pressure off of you and help to keep costs down.
* **Embrace Simple Decorations:** You don’t need to spend a lot of money on decorations to create a festive atmosphere. Use natural elements like flowers and branches to decorate your table. You can also make your own Easter decorations with inexpensive craft supplies.
* **Make your own Easter baskets:** Instead of buying pre-made, pricey Easter baskets, create personalized baskets. Fill them with things like candies bought on rollback, small toys, and craft supplies from Walmart. Personal touches make it memorable and more affordable.
* **Bake from scratch:** While store-bought desserts are convenient, baking your own saves money and tastes better. Walmart rollback prices on baking ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter, make it affordable to create delicious cakes, cookies, and other Easter treats.

## Making the Most of Walmart’s Easter Deals

Walmart’s rollback on Easter prices means more families can enjoy a special holiday meal. Here’s how to maximize your savings:

* **Download the Walmart App:** Keep an eye on available deals and digital coupons through the Walmart app.
* **Check Clearance Sections:** Seasonal items are often marked down significantly closer to the holiday. Keep an eye out for clearance sections. However, keep in mind best before and expiry dates when shopping.
* **Consider Generic Brands:** Walmart’s Great Value brand offers quality alternatives at a lower price point. Don’t hesitate to use Great Value brand ingredients in your recipes.
* **Comparison Shop:** While Walmart is offering rollback prices, it’s always good to check against other local grocery stores (if feasible), to make the best informed buying decision.

## Conclusion: A Delicious and Affordable Easter is Within Reach

With Walmart’s Easter price cuts and these delicious recipes, you can create a memorable and affordable Easter feast for your family and friends. Don’t let rising grocery prices dampen your holiday spirit. Plan ahead, shop smart, and get creative in the kitchen. Happy Easter!