Ham is a versatile main dish that pairs well with many different sides. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply making a weeknight meal, choosing the right side dishes can take your ham to the next level.

You’ll find plenty of options to complement the salty, savory flavor of ham. From classic potato dishes to fresh vegetable sides, there are many tasty choices. This article will explore 30 delicious side dishes that go great with ham. You’ll discover new recipes to try and get ideas for rounding out your next ham dinner.

1. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Honey-glazed carrots make a perfect side dish for ham. They’re sweet, colorful, and easy to prepare.

Start by peeling and slicing carrots into rounds. Cook them in boiling water until tender-crisp.

In a pan, melt butter and add honey. Toss in the cooked carrots and stir to coat. Let them caramelize slightly.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. The honey brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots. This bright and flavorful side pairs beautifully with savory ham.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for ham. They add a creamy, savory element to your meal.

To make them, start with soft, fluffy potatoes. Mash them with garlic-infused heavy cream for extra flavor. Add butter and a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.

For even more garlicky goodness, drizzle sautéed garlic butter over the top before serving. This simple addition takes the dish to the next level.

These potatoes pair well with any ham dinner. Their rich taste complements the salty meat beautifully. You’ll love how the garlic aroma fills your kitchen as you prepare this side dish.

3. Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You can easily make this creamy, comforting dish at home.

Start by cooking fresh green beans until tender-crisp. In a separate pan, make a creamy sauce with butter, flour, and milk.

Add some garlic powder and salt for extra flavor. Mix the sauce with the green beans and top with crispy fried onions.

Bake the casserole in a 350°F oven until it’s hot and bubbly. The result is a delicious blend of textures and flavors that complements your ham beautifully.

Your family and guests will love this traditional side dish. It’s sure to become a favorite at your holiday meals and gatherings.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for ham. You can easily prepare them by tossing the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting in the oven.

The high heat caramelizes the edges, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before roasting.

To complement the ham, consider mixing in some diced ham pieces with the Brussels sprouts before cooking. This adds a salty, savory element that pairs well with the slightly nutty taste of the sprouts.

5. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is a tasty side dish that goes well with ham. You can make it by cooking fresh spinach in a creamy sauce. Start by wilting the spinach in a pan. Then, add cream, butter, and garlic for flavor.

Some recipes include cheese like Parmesan for extra richness. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the taste. Creamed spinach brings a nice balance to salty ham with its smooth texture and mild flavor.

This side dish is quick to prepare and adds a pop of green to your plate. It’s a good way to include some veggies in your ham dinner.

6. Cornbread Stuffing

Cornbread stuffing is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. You can make it easily by combining crumbled cornbread with sautéed vegetables and herbs.

Add some diced ham to the mix for extra flavor. This gives the stuffing a savory boost that complements the main dish perfectly.

Bake your stuffing until it’s golden and crispy on top. The contrast between the crisp exterior and soft interior makes for a delightful texture.

Serve your cornbread stuffing hot alongside your ham. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends at your next meal.

7. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You can make it from scratch or use a boxed mix for convenience.

For homemade mac and cheese, cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Make a creamy cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar.

Mix the sauce with the cooked pasta and bake until golden and bubbly. Add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Try different cheese combinations like Gruyère and Parmesan for unique flavors. You can also mix in cooked bacon or diced ham for a heartier dish.

8. Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love the creamy, cheesy layers of thinly sliced potatoes.

This dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Simply layer the potatoes with a rich sauce of milk, cream, and cheese.

Add some minced garlic and fresh herbs for extra flavor. Bake until golden and bubbly on top. The result is a comforting side that complements the salty ham beautifully.

Serve scalloped potatoes hot from the oven. Your guests will appreciate the indulgent combination of tender potatoes and savory sauce alongside the ham.

9. Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love its creamy texture and sweet flavor.

To make it, mash cooked sweet potatoes with butter, milk, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Pour the mixture into a baking dish.

Top it with a layer of marshmallows or a crumbly pecan streusel. Bake until golden brown on top.

This casserole adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory ham. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works well for holiday meals or family dinners.

10. Pea Salad

Pea salad is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. You can make it with frozen peas, which are easy to find and use.

Mix thawed peas with diced ham, shredded cheese, and chopped red onion. For the dressing, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch seasoning.

Add some crunch by including crispy bacon bits. You can also toss in cooked macaroni to make it more filling.

For best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely.

11. Dinner Rolls

Warm, fluffy dinner rolls make a perfect side dish for ham. You can buy ready-made rolls or bake your own from scratch.

Fresh-baked rolls fill your home with an inviting aroma. Their soft texture contrasts nicely with slices of savory ham.

For extra flavor, brush melted butter on top of the rolls before serving. You can also sprinkle herbs like rosemary or thyme on the rolls.

Dinner rolls are great for soaking up ham juices or making mini sandwiches with leftovers. Their versatility makes them a crowd-pleasing addition to any ham dinner.

12. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love its crisp texture and tangy flavor. It’s easy to make at home with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing.

For a quick version, mix mayo, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. Pour this over your veggies and toss well. Let it chill in the fridge for an hour before serving.

You can customize your coleslaw by adding extras like apples or raisins. For a healthier twist, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the dressing. Coleslaw adds a cool, refreshing element to your ham dinner.

13. Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup makes a tasty side dish for ham. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor complement the salty meat nicely.

You can serve this soup hot or chilled, depending on the season. For a richer taste, add a dollop of cream or crème fraîche on top.

Pair your butternut squash soup with crusty bread for dipping. A French baguette or focaccia works well. You could also try cheese and garlic bread for extra flavor.

For a complete meal, add a simple salad on the side. A caprese salad or kale and quinoa salad brings freshness to balance the richness of the soup and ham.

14. Baked Beans

Baked beans make a great side dish for ham. You can buy canned baked beans for a quick option. Or try making them from scratch for extra flavor.

Simmer navy beans with bacon, onions, and a sweet sauce. The sauce often includes molasses, brown sugar, and mustard. This creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Baked beans complement ham nicely. Their sweetness pairs well with the salty meat. The soft texture of the beans also contrasts with the ham’s firmness.

Serve your baked beans hot alongside slices of ham. They’re filling and add protein to your meal. Kids and adults alike enjoy this classic side dish.

15. Apple Cranberry Salad

This fresh and tangy salad pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love the mix of sweet apples and tart cranberries. It’s easy to make and adds a bright pop of color to your plate.

To make it, chop some crisp apples and mix them with dried cranberries. Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for crunch. Toss everything in a light dressing made with lemon juice and honey.

This salad tastes best when chilled for an hour before serving. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy meals. The flavors complement ham nicely without overshadowing it.

16. Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a perfect side dish for ham. You can make it easily at home or buy it ready-made.

To make your own, simmer cranberries with sugar and orange juice. Cook until the berries pop and the sauce thickens.

For a twist, add spices like cinnamon or cloves. You can also mix in orange zest for extra flavor.

Serve your cranberry sauce cold or at room temperature. It adds a sweet and tart taste that goes great with salty ham.

17. Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You can easily prepare it by trimming the tough ends and arranging the spears on a baking sheet.

Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in a hot oven until tender and lightly browned, usually about 10-15 minutes.

For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic or grated Parmesan cheese before roasting. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving adds a bright, fresh taste to complement your ham dinner.

18. Cheddar Biscuits

Cheddar biscuits are a tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. These savory treats are easy to make and add a cheesy kick to your meal.

Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and grated cheddar cheese in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Add milk and stir until just combined.

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. The biscuits will be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

For extra flavor, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder before serving. You can also add diced ham to the dough for ham and cheese biscuits.

19. Glazed Pearl Onions

Glazed pearl onions make a tasty side dish for ham. These small, sweet onions become even more delicious when cooked in a flavorful glaze.

You can use fresh or frozen pearl onions for this recipe. A balsamic and Dijon glaze adds tangy sweetness that complements the onions perfectly.

To make glazed pearl onions, roast them in a baking dish with butter, sugar, and balsamic vinegar. The onions will caramelize and become tender as they cook.

For extra flavor, try adding some crispy bacon bits to your glazed onions. The smoky bacon pairs well with the sweet glaze and tender onions.

20. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy side dish for ham. Cook quinoa according to package directions and let it cool.

Mix in diced vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes for crunch and color. Add some chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for freshness.

Make a simple dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently.

For extra flavor, you can include ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or even small pieces of leftover ham. This versatile salad is perfect for using up ingredients you have on hand.

Serve your quinoa salad chilled or at room temperature alongside your ham main dish.

21. Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Broccoli cheese casserole is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. You can make it with fresh or frozen broccoli florets.

Start by cooking the broccoli until tender. Mix it with a creamy cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Top it with more cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy crust. Bake until hot and bubbly.

This casserole is rich and comforting. The broccoli adds a nice crunch and balances out the creamy cheese. It’s sure to be a hit at your next family dinner.

22. Red Cabbage Slaw

Red cabbage slaw adds a vibrant pop of color to your ham dinner. This tangy side dish is easy to make and tastes great.

To prepare it, shred red cabbage and mix it with grated carrots and sliced onions. For the dressing, combine vinegar, sugar, and a touch of oil.

Toss the vegetables with the dressing and let it sit for a bit. This allows the flavors to meld together.

The result is a crunchy, refreshing slaw that pairs perfectly with ham. It’s a great way to add some zing to your meal.

23. Risotto

Risotto makes a creamy and comforting side dish for ham. This Italian rice dish absorbs flavors beautifully, complementing the salty richness of ham.

You can customize risotto with various ingredients. Try adding mushrooms, peas, or asparagus for extra flavor and texture. Parmesan cheese stirred in at the end adds a savory depth.

For a lighter option, consider a lemon risotto. The citrus notes cut through the richness of ham. Arborio rice is traditional, but carnaroli rice also works well for a silky texture.

Serve risotto hot alongside sliced ham for a satisfying meal. The contrasting textures and flavors will please your guests.

24. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts with bacon make a tasty side dish for ham. The smoky bacon complements the slightly bitter sprouts perfectly.

To make this dish, cook chopped bacon in a pan until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside. In the same pan, sauté halved Brussels sprouts in the bacon fat.

Once the sprouts are tender and caramelized, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Toss the crispy bacon bits back in and season with salt and pepper.

This flavorful combination adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of glazed ham. The crunchy texture of the sprouts and bacon also provides a pleasant variety to your plate.

25. Garlic Sauteed Mushrooms

Garlic sauteed mushrooms make a tasty side dish for ham. To make them, start by cleaning your mushrooms and slicing them.

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and let them cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes to brown on one side.

Next, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Toss the mushrooms occasionally as they continue cooking.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add herbs like thyme for extra flavor. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and any liquid has evaporated, about 6-8 minutes total.

Serve these savory mushrooms alongside your ham for a delicious pairing.

26. Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild rice pilaf is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

This pilaf combines wild rice with other grains for a nutty, earthy flavor. It often includes dried cranberries for sweetness and chopped nuts for crunch.

You can prepare wild rice pilaf ahead of time and reheat it when needed. This makes it great for busy holiday meals or gatherings.

To serve, fluff the rice with a fork and add some fresh herbs if you like. The mix of textures and flavors complements ham nicely.

27. Pecan Salad

Pecan salad adds a nutty crunch to your ham dinner. It’s easy to make and full of flavor. Mix chopped pecans with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and tangy cheese.

For extra taste, add some diced ham to the salad. Dress it with a light vinaigrette or creamy ranch. You can also toss in some dried cranberries for sweetness.

This salad is perfect for warm days. It’s light but filling. The pecans give you protein and healthy fats. Serve it cold for a refreshing side dish with your ham.

28. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini makes a tasty side dish to pair with ham. You can easily prepare it on the grill in just 10 minutes.

Slice zucchini lengthwise and brush with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like basil or oregano. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until you see nice grill marks.

The smoky flavor from grilling complements ham well. For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top after grilling.

You can serve grilled zucchini spears as a side or cut them into bite-sized pieces. They’re delicious hot off the grill or at room temperature.

29. Sweet Corn Pudding

Sweet corn pudding is a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love its creamy texture and comforting flavor. This Southern favorite combines corn, milk, eggs, and sugar for a sweet and savory treat.

To make it, mix cream-style corn with whole kernel corn, eggs, milk, and a touch of sugar. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake until golden brown. The result is a fluffy, custard-like dish that’s sure to please your guests.

Sweet corn pudding adds a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness of ham. It’s an easy-to-make side that can feed a crowd, making it ideal for holiday dinners or family gatherings.

30. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. This creamy, tangy salad adds a cool contrast to the warm, salty ham.

To make potato salad, start by boiling cubed potatoes until tender. Mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped celery for crunch.

Add diced onions and pickles for extra flavor. Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. For a richer taste, mix in some chopped hard-boiled eggs.

Chill your potato salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and creates a refreshing side dish for your ham meal.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Ham Side Dishes

Ham side dishes can pack a nutritional punch. Many options offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Some choices are also low in carbs, making them good for different diets.

Vitamins and Minerals

Side dishes for ham often contain veggies rich in nutrients. Green beans are high in vitamins A, C, and K. They also provide folate and potassium. Sweet potatoes offer beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A. They’re also full of vitamin C and manganese.

Corn dishes add B vitamins to your meal. These help with energy and brain function. Squash sides are great sources of vitamins A and C. They also give you magnesium and potassium.

Many veggie sides have fiber. This helps with digestion and keeps you full. Iron from leafy greens like spinach boosts your blood health. Calcium in dairy-based sides keeps your bones strong.

Low-Carb Options

If you’re watching carbs, pick the right ham sides. Green beans are low in carbs but high in nutrients. A cup has only about 7 grams of carbs. Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or asparagus are also good choices.

Cauliflower is very low-carb. You can mash it like potatoes or roast it. It has only 5 grams of carbs per cup. Salads with leafy greens are another great option. They’re low in carbs but high in vitamins.

For a creamy side, try mashed turnips instead of potatoes. They have fewer carbs but still taste great. Zucchini noodles can replace pasta in many dishes. They’re low-carb and full of vitamins.

Pairing Side Dishes With Ham

Ham’s salty flavor pairs well with many side dishes. The right combinations can create a balanced and satisfying meal. Seasonal ingredients add freshness and variety to your plate.

Flavor Combinations

Sweet sides complement ham’s saltiness. Try glazed carrots or candied yams. Their natural sugars balance the meat’s savory taste.

Creamy dishes like mashed potatoes or mac and cheese work well too. They offer a soft texture contrast to ham’s firmness.

Tangy options cut through the richness. Serve coleslaw or a vinegar-based potato salad. These add a refreshing zing to each bite.

Earthy flavors also pair nicely. Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans bring depth to the meal.

Seasonal Ingredients

Spring calls for light, fresh sides. Asparagus, peas, and fresh salads complement ham perfectly. They bring color and crunch to your plate.

Summer offers corn on the cob and tomato salads. These sunny flavors match ham’s heartiness without being too heavy.

Fall brings root vegetables. Roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are ideal choices. Their earthy sweetness balances ham’s salty profile.

Winter dishes like scalloped potatoes or creamy casseroles are comforting. They add warmth to holiday ham dinners.

Use what’s in season for the best taste and value. Fresh, local produce enhances any ham meal.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Side Dishes

Great side dishes complement ham beautifully. Here are some key tips to make your sides shine.

Preparation Techniques

Prep your ingredients ahead of time. Wash and chop veggies the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This saves time on cooking day.

Measure out dry ingredients in advance. Put them in labeled containers or bags. You’ll be ready to cook quickly when it’s time.

Get your tools and equipment ready early. Set out pots, pans, and utensils you’ll need. Check that you have enough oven space for multiple dishes.

Cooking Methods

Choose the right cooking method for each dish. Roasting brings out flavors in root veggies. Steaming keeps green veggies bright and crisp.

Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. This ensures food safety and perfect texture. Insert it into the thickest part of the dish.

Time your dishes to finish together. Start long-cooking items first. Add quick-cooking sides near the end. Everything will be hot and fresh when served.

Try batch cooking to save time. Make extra of freezer-friendly sides. You can reheat them easily for future meals.

Making Side Dishes Ahead of Time

Prepping side dishes in advance can save time and reduce stress when serving ham. You can store many dishes safely and reheat them without losing flavor or texture.

Storage Tips

Make your side dishes up to 3 days before serving. Cool cooked items completely before putting them in airtight containers. Store raw veggies and salads separately from dressings. Keep potato and pasta salads in the fridge at 40°F or below.

For casseroles, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze items like stuffing or mashed potatoes for up to 1 month. Label containers with the dish name and date.

Don’t store bread-based sides more than 1 day ahead to avoid sogginess. Cut fresh fruits just before serving to prevent browning.

Reheating Guidelines

Warm casseroles in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes. Add a splash of broth to prevent drying out. Stir halfway through heating.

Microwave individual portions on 50% power, stirring every minute. Heat stuffing to 165°F internal temperature for food safety.

Steam veggies in the microwave with a damp paper towel on top. Warm mashed potatoes in a pot over low heat, adding milk as needed.

Serve cold dishes like salads straight from the fridge. Let frozen items thaw overnight before reheating.