Passover is a significant Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. It is observed with strict dietary laws, special prayers, and family gatherings. One of the biggest challenges during Passover is meal planning, as chametz (leavened grains) is prohibited, and Ashkenazi Jews also avoid kitniyot (legumes, rice, and corn). Despite these restrictions, it is entirely possible to create delicious, satisfying, and kosher Passover meals that the entire family will enjoy.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Passover meal planning, including:
✅ A detailed Seder meal plan with traditional dishes
✅ Breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas for the rest of the holiday
✅ Passover-friendly recipes that are both easy and flavorful
✅ A comprehensive shopping list to help you stock your kitchen
✅ Meal prep tips to make Passover cooking easier and more efficient
Whether you’re hosting a large Seder or just looking for easy Passover meals, this guide has you covered!
Step 1: Plan Your Passover Seder Meal
The Passover Seder is the most important meal of the holiday, taking place on the first one or two nights of Passover. This festive dinner follows a structured order (Seder means “order” in Hebrew) and includes a mix of symbolic foods and traditional dishes.
The Essential Seder Plate Foods
The Seder plate contains six symbolic foods that represent aspects of the Passover story:
- Maror (Bitter Herbs) – Usually horseradish, symbolizing the bitterness of slavery.
- Charoset – A sweet mixture of apples, nuts, cinnamon, and wine, representing the mortar used by the Hebrew slaves.
- Karpas (Green Vegetable, Often Parsley or Celery) – Dipped in saltwater to symbolize the tears of the Israelites.
- Z’roa (Shank Bone) – Represents the Paschal sacrifice in the Temple.
- Beitzah (Roasted Egg) – Symbolizes renewal and the festival sacrifice.
- Chazeret (Additional Bitter Herb) – Often romaine lettuce, reinforcing the theme of bitterness.
Traditional Seder Meal Plan
While the Seder meal varies by family and tradition, here is a classic Passover menu that balances tradition and taste.
Appetizer: Classic Matzah Ball Soup
Matzah ball soup is a beloved Passover dish that is both comforting and flavorful. The matzah balls (kneidlach) are light and fluffy, floating in a savory broth with vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup matzah meal
- ¼ cup oil or schmaltz (chicken fat)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup water or seltzer (for fluffier matzah balls)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, oil, salt, and pepper. Stir in matzah meal and water/seltzer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Wet your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, and drop them into the water. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- In another pot, bring chicken broth to a boil and add sliced carrots.
- Transfer matzah balls to the soup, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Main Course: Slow-Cooked Passover Brisket
Brisket is a Passover favorite, known for its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture when slow-cooked in a rich sauce.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb beef brisket
- 2 onions, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (Kosher for Passover)
- 1 cup Passover-friendly red wine
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a large skillet, heat oil and sear the brisket on both sides until browned.
- In a roasting pan, layer onions and garlic, then place the brisket on top.
- Mix beef broth, wine, tomato paste, and spices, then pour over the brisket. Cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 3-4 hours, basting occasionally, until the meat is fork-tender.
- Slice against the grain and serve with its rich sauce.
Side Dish: Sweet Potato Kugel
Kugel is a classic Jewish casserole that can be either savory or sweet. This sweet potato kugel is naturally gluten-free and perfect for Passover.
Ingredients:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, grated
- 3 eggs
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup Passover-friendly oil
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix grated sweet potatoes, eggs, honey, oil, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour into a greased baking dish and bake for 45 minutes until golden brown.
Dessert: Flourless Chocolate Cake
A rich, fudgy chocolate cake that is naturally gluten-free and perfect for Passover.
Ingredients:
- 6 oz dark chocolate (Kosher for Passover)
- ½ cup butter or margarine
- ¾ cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup cocoa powder
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate and butter together in a double boiler or microwave.
- Whisk in sugar, then eggs, then cocoa powder until smooth.
- Pour into a greased pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Step 2: Plan Meals for the Rest of Passover
Since Passover lasts seven to eight days, planning ahead ensures variety and ease.
Breakfast Ideas
- Sweet Matzah Brei – Fried matzah with eggs, honey, and cinnamon
- Scrambled Eggs & Smoked Salmon – Served with avocado
- Kosher-for-Passover Pancakes – Made with almond flour and topped with fruit
Lunch & Dinner Ideas
- Grilled Chicken with Lemon & Herbs
- Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef & Vegetables
- Shepherd’s Pie with Matzah Topping
Step 3: Meal Prep Tips for a Stress-Free Passover
✔️ Prepare Matzah Balls in Advance – Freeze them before the holiday.
✔️ Slow Cook Brisket the Night Before – It tastes better when reheated!
✔️ Bake Passover Desserts Early – Cakes and macaroons store well.
✔️ Use One-Pan Meals – Roast chicken and veggies together to save time.
✔️ Plan Leftovers – Turn brisket into tacos (with Passover-friendly wraps).
Final Thoughts
Passover meal planning doesn’t have to be stressful. By following a well-thought-out menu, using simple yet flavorful recipes, and preparing in advance, you can enjoy a kosher and delicious Passover with your loved ones.
