Ham is a classic main dish for holidays and special occasions. It’s tasty on its own, but the right side dishes can make your meal even better.

With so many options to choose from, you can create a delicious and well-rounded plate.

The best side dishes for ham complement its flavors and textures while adding variety to your meal. You’ll find options ranging from creamy potato dishes to crisp vegetable salads.

Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner or a casual family meal, there are sides that will fit your needs. Let’s explore some tasty choices to serve alongside your ham.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for ham. They’re creamy, flavorful, and easy to make.

Start by peeling and cutting potatoes into chunks. Boil them until tender, then drain.

In a pan, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Add this to your drained potatoes.

Mash the potatoes with warm milk, salt, and pepper. For extra creaminess, you can add sour cream or cream cheese.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve your garlic mashed potatoes hot alongside your ham for a delicious meal.

2. Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are a perfect side dish for ham. These savory biscuits are packed with cheesy goodness and garlic flavor.

You can easily make them at home or buy them pre-made. Their flaky texture and rich taste complement the salty sweetness of ham beautifully.

Serve these biscuits warm for the best experience. You can split them open and use them to make mini ham sandwiches for a fun twist on your meal.

For extra flavor, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with herbs before serving. This will make your Cheddar Bay Biscuits even more irresistible alongside your ham dinner.

3. Maple Glazed Carrots

Maple glazed carrots make a sweet and tasty side dish for ham. You can whip them up in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy meals.

To make them, cook carrots until tender. Then toss them with maple syrup, butter, and a pinch of salt.

The maple syrup gives the carrots a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs well with salty ham.

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of orange zest. You can use baby carrots or cut regular carrots into sticks or rounds.

These carrots work great for both casual dinners and holiday feasts. Their bright color and sweet taste will liven up your plate.

4. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts with bacon make a tasty side dish for ham. To prepare this, you’ll need Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and place them on a baking sheet.

Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cut bacon into small pieces and scatter them around the Brussels sprouts. Roast for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

The result is crispy bacon and tender, caramelized Brussels sprouts. This savory combination complements the sweetness of ham perfectly.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a tasty side dish that goes well with ham. You can make it by cooking sweet potatoes until they’re soft, then mashing them.

Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with butter, milk, and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Some people add a little brown sugar for extra sweetness.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top it with marshmallows or a crumbly pecan topping. Bake it until the top is golden brown and crispy.

This warm, sweet casserole balances out the salty flavor of ham nicely. It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults enjoy.

6. Honey-Roasted Parsnips

Honey-roasted parsnips are a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. These root vegetables become sweet and caramelized when roasted with honey.

To make them, cut parsnips into evenly sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, honey, and seasonings like salt and thyme.

Roast the parsnips in a hot oven for about 30-40 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.

The result is tender parsnips with a golden exterior and a hint of sweetness. You can add carrots for color contrast if desired.

This simple side dish takes little effort but adds great flavor to your ham dinner. The natural sweetness complements the savory meat nicely.

7. Green Bean Almondine

Green bean almondine is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. To make it, start by blanching fresh green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.

While the beans cool in an ice bath, toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet until golden brown. Set them aside and add butter to the pan.

Sauté minced shallots and garlic in the butter until fragrant. Add the drained green beans and cook for a few minutes to heat through.

Toss in the toasted almonds and season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple yet elegant side dish adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor to complement your ham.

8. Cornbread Stuffing

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

To start, bake a batch of cornbread or use store-bought. Cube the cornbread and let it dry out overnight.

Sauté onions, celery, and garlic in butter until soft.

Mix the vegetables with the cornbread cubes. Add chicken broth, beaten eggs, and seasonings like sage and thyme. Stir everything together gently.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake it in the oven until golden brown on top. The result is a savory, slightly sweet stuffing that complements your ham perfectly.

9. Apple Walnut Salad

Apple walnut salad is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. You can make it with crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and leafy greens like endive or arugula.

Add some dried cranberries for sweetness and feta or blue cheese for a creamy touch. Toss everything in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette or maple dressing.

This salad is easy to put together and brings a nice balance of flavors and textures to your meal. It’s also a good choice if you want a lighter option alongside your ham.

10. Scalloped Potatoes

Scalloped potatoes make a perfect side dish for ham. This creamy, cheesy potato casserole complements the salty, savory flavors of ham beautifully.

The layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a rich sauce create a comforting texture. You can easily customize scalloped potatoes by adding different cheeses or herbs to suit your taste.

For an extra special touch, try adding some diced ham directly into your scalloped potato dish. This creates a delicious all-in-one side that pairs wonderfully with your main ham entree.

11. Balsamic Roasted Asparagus

Balsamic roasted asparagus is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. To make it, you’ll need fresh asparagus, olive oil, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Snap off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. Place the asparagus in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the spears.

Roast the asparagus for 10-15 minutes until lightly browned. The exact time depends on the thickness of your asparagus. Before serving, drizzle balsamic vinegar over the roasted spears for a tangy finish.

This quick and easy side dish takes about 20 minutes total. It’s a great option when you need a last-minute veggie to go with your ham.

12. Creamy Polenta

Creamy polenta makes a great side dish for ham. This smooth, corn-based dish offers a mild flavor that complements the saltiness of ham.

To make it, cook cornmeal with water or broth until thick and creamy. Add butter and cheese for extra richness.

You can serve polenta soft and warm, or let it cool and slice it. Both ways pair well with ham.

For added flavor, try stirring in herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can also top it with roasted vegetables or a drizzle of olive oil.

13. Herb-Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Herb-roasted fingerling potatoes make a delicious side dish for ham. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Rinse and dry the potatoes, then cut them in half lengthwise.

Toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Roast the potatoes for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re done when the outsides are crispy and golden, and the insides are tender.

For extra flavor, you can add some grated Parmesan cheese in the last few minutes of cooking. Serve these tasty potatoes hot alongside your ham for a satisfying meal.

14. Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

Cranberry sauce with orange zest is a perfect side dish for ham. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by combining fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Add orange juice and zest for a citrusy twist.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Let the sauce cool before serving. Its sweet-tart flavor complements the rich taste of ham beautifully. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days.

15. Caramelized Onion Tart

You’ll love this savory caramelized onion tart as a side dish for ham. It features a buttery pastry crust filled with sweet, slow-cooked onions.

To make it, you’ll cook sliced onions over low heat for about 30-40 minutes until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness.

Add some thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors. Pour the onion mixture into a pre-baked tart shell and bake for another 30 minutes.

The result is a rich, flavorful tart with a crisp crust and tender onion filling. It pairs perfectly with ham and can be served warm or at room temperature.

16. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Warm, buttery dinner rolls are the perfect side dish for ham. These soft, fluffy rolls soak up the savory juices from the meat.

You can make them from scratch or buy pre-made ones. If baking at home, use plenty of butter in the dough and brush some on top before serving.

For extra flavor, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking.

Serve the rolls warm, straight from the oven. They’re great for making mini sandwiches with leftover ham too.

17. Cauliflower Gratin

Cauliflower gratin is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. This creamy, cheesy bake offers a low-carb alternative to potato-based sides.

To make it, you’ll roast cauliflower florets until they’re lightly browned. Then, you’ll cover them with a rich cheese sauce made from bechamel, Parmesan, and other flavorful cheeses.

Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Top it with extra cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

The result is a comforting, indulgent side that complements your ham perfectly.

You can customize your gratin by adding smoked ham pieces to the dish for extra flavor. This hearty side is sure to be a hit at your next meal.

18. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Parmesan roasted broccoli is a tasty and easy side dish for ham. You can make it in about 20 minutes.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Cut broccoli into florets and place them on a baking sheet.

Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Roast the broccoli for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The edges should be crispy and golden brown.

Remove from the oven and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot broccoli. The cheese will melt slightly. Serve right away for the best flavor and texture.

19. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots make a sweet and colorful side dish for ham. You can easily prepare them in a pan on the stove or roast them in the oven.

To make them, start with peeled and sliced carrots. Cook the carrots until tender, then add butter, honey, and a pinch of salt.

Let the honey and butter coat the carrots as they cook, creating a glossy glaze. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs wonderfully with the honey.

These carrots add a pop of orange to your plate and complement the savory flavor of ham. They’re a crowd-pleasing side dish that both kids and adults enjoy.

20. Pineapple Casserole

Pineapple casserole is a sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love its unique blend of flavors and textures.

To make it, mix canned pineapple chunks with sugar, flour, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this mixture into a baking dish.

Top it with a crunchy layer of crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter. Bake until golden brown and bubbly.

The result is a delightful combination of juicy pineapple, gooey cheese, and crispy topping. It’s sure to be a hit at your next ham dinner.

21. Southern Collard Greens

Southern collard greens are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love the smoky flavor from ham hocks or bacon.

To make them, start by cooking onions and garlic in bacon fat. Then add chopped collard greens and chicken broth.

Simmer the greens low and slow until tender. For extra flavor, toss in some diced smoked ham or a ham bone. The pork adds richness and helps tenderize the greens.

Serve your collards hot alongside sliced ham. They’re especially popular for New Year’s Day meals in the South.

22. Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild rice pilaf is a tasty side dish that goes well with ham. It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture that adds variety to your meal.

To make it, rinse wild rice and simmer it in water or broth for about 45 minutes. You can add onions, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.

This dish is hearty and filling. It’s also nutritious, with more protein and fiber than white rice.

Wild rice pilaf can be served hot or at room temperature. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it when needed. This makes it great for busy dinners or holiday meals with ham as the main course.

23. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. This creamy, cheesy pasta comfort food complements the salty flavor of ham beautifully.

You can make it from scratch or use a boxed mix for convenience. Add extra cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust when baked.

Try mixing in some diced ham or bacon bits for added flavor. You can also experiment with different cheese blends like cheddar, Gruyère, or Gouda.

For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pasta and add some steamed broccoli or peas. This side dish is sure to please both kids and adults at your next ham dinner.

24. Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic

Sautéed green beans with garlic make a tasty side dish for ham. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add trimmed fresh green beans to the hot pan. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The beans should become slightly blistered and tender-crisp.

Next, add thinly sliced garlic to the pan. Sauté for another minute until the garlic turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Season the green beans with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the beans before serving.

25. Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup makes a delightful side dish for ham. Its smooth, creamy texture and sweet flavor complement the savory meat perfectly.

You can easily prepare this soup with roasted butternut squash, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth. Blend the ingredients until smooth and season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg.

For added richness, stir in some cream or coconut milk.

Garnish your soup with a dollop of sour cream, crispy bacon bits, or toasted pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. Serve this warming soup in small bowls alongside your ham for a cozy and satisfying meal.

26. Lentil Salad with Feta

Lentil salad with feta is a tasty side dish that goes well with ham. You can make it quickly and easily.

Start by cooking lentils until they’re tender. Mix them with chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.

Add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy flavor. Toss everything with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

This salad is full of protein and fiber. It’s also light and refreshing, which balances out the richness of ham.

You can make it ahead of time and serve it cold or at room temperature.

27. Artichoke and Spinach Gratin

This creamy side dish pairs perfectly with ham. You’ll love the combination of tender artichokes and spinach in a rich, cheesy sauce.

To make it, start by cooking onions until they’re soft and golden. Mix them with thawed artichoke hearts and spinach.

Add cream cheese, Parmesan, and seasonings to create a flavorful base.

Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish and top with more cheese. Bake the gratin until it’s hot and bubbly, with a golden-brown crust on top. The result is a warm, comforting side that complements your ham beautifully.

28. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted beet salad is a tasty side dish that pairs well with ham. You’ll love the mix of sweet and earthy flavors.

Start by roasting beets until they’re tender. Let them cool, then peel and slice them.

Mix the beets with fresh greens like arugula or spinach. Add some crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick.

Toss in some crunchy nuts like pistachios or walnuts. For extra sweetness, include sliced oranges or figs.

Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This light dressing will bring out the beets’ natural flavors.

29. Savory Bread Pudding

Savory bread pudding is a tasty twist on the classic dessert. It’s a great way to use up stale bread and pair it with ham.

To make it, cube bread and layer it with diced ham and cheese in a baking dish. Mix eggs, half-and-half, and seasonings like mustard, salt, and pepper.

Pour the egg mixture over the bread. Let it soak for a bit before baking. The result is a golden, puffy dish that’s crispy on top and soft inside.

You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. This dish works well for breakfast, brunch, or as a side with dinner.

30. Tangy Coleslaw

Tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to your ham dinner. You can make it easily with shredded cabbage and carrots.

Mix in a zesty dressing of mayo, vinegar, and sugar for the perfect balance of creamy and tangy. Adjust the flavors to your liking.

Add more vinegar for extra zing or sugar for sweetness. You can also toss in some chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.

Make your coleslaw ahead of time. This allows the flavors to mix and the cabbage to soften slightly. It’s a great make-ahead side dish that pairs wonderfully with ham.

Pairing Flavors with Ham

Ham’s salty taste pairs well with many flavors. The right side dishes can bring out its best qualities. Let’s look at some tasty combinations.

Sweet and Savory Combinations

Sweet flavors balance ham’s saltiness nicely. Honey-glazed carrots add sweetness and color to your plate. Pineapple chunks mixed with brown sugar make a quick, tropical side.

For a savory touch, try roasted brussels sprouts with bacon. The crispy edges complement ham’s texture. Creamy scalloped potatoes offer comfort and richness.

You can also mix sweet and savory in one dish. Apple and walnut salad with a tangy dressing hits both notes. Maple-roasted sweet potatoes give you a blend of flavors in each bite.

Herbs and Spices for Enhancement

The right herbs and spices can take your ham dinner to the next level. Rosemary roasted potatoes add an earthy aroma. Fresh thyme sprinkled on green beans brings a subtle, minty flavor.

For a bolder taste, try mustard-glazed asparagus. The sharp flavor cuts through ham’s richness. Garlic mashed potatoes offer a classic, comforting side with a kick.

Don’t forget about warm spices. Cinnamon-spiced applesauce makes a cozy companion to ham. For a unique twist, serve cumin-roasted carrots. Their smoky flavor pairs well with ham’s salty taste.

Remember to use herbs and spices lightly. You want to enhance the ham, not overpower it.

Cooking Techniques for Side Dishes

Different cooking methods can enhance your ham side dishes. Each technique brings out unique flavors and textures in your ingredients. Let’s explore three key approaches to prepare tasty sides.

Roasting for Depth of Flavor

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness. This dry-heat method creates a crispy exterior and tender interior.

To roast, toss veggies in oil and spread them on a baking sheet. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Try roasting carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. The high heat caramelizes their sugars, giving a rich taste. For extra flavor, add herbs like rosemary or thyme before cooking.

Roasted sides pair well with ham’s salty taste. The contrast in textures makes for an exciting meal. Remember to cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.

Steaming for Freshness

Steaming keeps vegetables bright and crisp. This gentle method preserves nutrients and natural flavors.

Use a steamer basket over boiling water to cook your sides. Green beans, broccoli, and asparagus are great for steaming.

Cook them for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Don’t overcook, or they’ll lose their vibrant color and texture.

After steaming, toss veggies with butter, lemon juice, or garlic for extra taste. This light cooking style balances the richness of ham. It’s perfect for health-conscious eaters who want to keep things simple.

Grilling for Smokiness

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to side dishes. It’s great for outdoor cooking and brings a summer feel to your meal.

Brush vegetables with oil and place them on a hot grill.

Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers grill well. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until you see grill marks. The char adds depth to their taste.

For added convenience, use a grill basket for smaller items like cherry tomatoes.

Grilled sides complement the savory notes in ham. They bring a pleasant smokiness that enhances the overall meal.