Ham makes a delicious main dish for special meals and family gatherings. Whether you’re planning for Easter dinner or just a weekend feast, choosing the right side dishes can turn your meal into something truly memorable.
The perfect sides for ham balance its rich, savory flavor with complementary tastes and textures. You can choose from classic potato dishes like scalloped potatoes or potato salad, fresh vegetable options such as green beans or glazed carrots, and comforting classics like macaroni and cheese.
With so many delicious possibilities, your ham dinner will surely impress everyone at the table.
1. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy scalloped potatoes pair perfectly with ham, creating a classic holiday duo. These thinly sliced Yukon Gold potatoes layered with Gruyere cheese and golden sautéed onions make a delicious French-inspired side dish.
You can customize this creamy potato dish to your taste. Add more cheese if you’re a cheese lover, or keep it simpler for a more balanced flavor profile.
This dish works well for Easter dinners or any special occasion. The rich, creamy texture complements the saltiness of ham beautifully.
The cheesy potato casserole format is particularly popular at family gatherings.
2. Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes
Sour cream mashed potatoes are a rich, creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. The tangy sour cream adds a wonderful flavor that balances the saltiness of your ham.
To make this dish, you’ll need potatoes, butter, sour cream, and seasonings. Russet potatoes work best because they mash easily and absorb flavors well.
For extra creaminess, warm your butter and sour cream before adding them to the hot potatoes. This prevents the potatoes from cooling too quickly during mixing.
Add a sprinkle of chives or green onions on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. You can make these mashed potatoes ahead and reheat them, making them perfect for holiday meals.
3. Candied Sweet Potatoes
Candied sweet potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to your Easter ham or any ham dish. They offer a sweet contrast to the savory meat flavor.
These delicious potatoes are coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze that caramelizes as they bake. The result is a tender, sweet side dish with slightly crispy edges.
You can make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time. Simply reheat them before serving for a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs beautifully with ham.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots
Honey-glazed carrots make a perfect sweet side dish that complements the savory flavor of ham beautifully. They’re easy to prepare and add a vibrant color to your plate.
Use either baby carrots or regular carrots cut into sticks. Toss them in a mixture of honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt before roasting them in the oven until they’re tender.
The natural sweetness of the carrots gets enhanced by the honey glaze, creating a caramelized exterior. This side dish works well for both casual family dinners and special holiday meals alongside your glazed ham.
5. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach makes a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. This rich, velvety vegetable dish provides a wonderful contrast to the saltiness of ham.
You can enhance your creamed spinach by adding shallots for extra flavor. For a creative twist, use hollandaise sauce as the “cream” in your creamed spinach.
Top it with a poached egg for a more substantial side. Creamed spinach is versatile enough for any occasion, from everyday steak dinners to special holiday meals with ham.
6. Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a perfect side dish for ham that’s ready in just 10 minutes. The simple preparation lets the vegetable’s natural flavor shine while creating delicious caramelized edges.
Simply toss trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in a hot oven until tender but still crisp.
Add Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, or slivered almonds as a topping for extra flavor. The bright green color and fresh taste of roasted asparagus provides a wonderful contrast to the rich, savory flavor of ham.
7. Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese
Bacon & Pimento Mac & Cheese makes a perfect side dish that might steal the show from your ham. This rich and creamy dish combines sharp cheddar cheese with tangy pimentos and crispy bacon for amazing flavor.
You’ll need elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, sharp cheddar cheese, pimentos, and bacon. The recipe typically takes about 50 minutes total, with 20 minutes of prep time.
Top the dish with breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta. With nearly 876 calories per serving, this indulgent side pairs wonderfully with ham for a satisfying meal.
8. French Onion Cabbage Gratin
French Onion Cabbage Gratin transforms ordinary cabbage into a show-stopping side dish. It features crisp browned cabbage wedges smothered in a rich Gruyère cheese sauce.
Jammy caramelized onions mixed throughout the sauce give the dish its distinctive flavor. The combination creates a gooey, indulgent taste experience that pairs perfectly with ham.
You’ll find this gratin surprisingly easy to make despite its impressive appearance. Serve it alongside your baked ham with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
9. Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing
Potato salad with mustard dressing makes a perfect companion to your Easter or holiday ham. The tangy, sharp flavors of the mustard cut through the richness of the ham beautifully.
Use red potatoes for best results as they hold their shape better when cooked. Mix in some crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor that complements both the potatoes and your ham.
You can serve this dish warm or cold depending on your preference. The creamy texture and zesty taste create a balanced meal when served alongside your glazed ham centerpiece.
10. Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine pairs perfectly with ham, offering a light and flavorful contrast to the rich meat. This classic side dish features tender green beans topped with toasted almonds for added crunch.
Blanch fresh green beans until bright green and tender-crisp. Then sauté them in butter or ghee with minced garlic for extra flavor.
The dish gets its name from the toasted sliced almonds sprinkled on top. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a touch of salt and pepper before serving for a bright finish.
You can prepare this versatile side ahead of time and reheat it just before your ham dinner is ready.
11. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon make a perfect side dish for ham. The combination creates a wonderful contrast of flavors that complement your main dish beautifully.
Brussels sprouts become crispy and caramelized when roasted, while bacon adds a smoky, savory element. The sprouts turn tender on the inside while developing golden, crispy edges.
For extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or maple syrup during roasting. Some recipes also include a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
This side dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for holiday meals or regular weeknight dinners alongside ham.
12. Pickled Deviled Eggs
Pickled deviled eggs bring a tangy twist to the classic appetizer that pairs wonderfully with ham. The pickling process gives the egg whites a beautiful purple or pink hue when using beet juice in the brine.
The vinegar flavor cuts through the richness of both the eggs and your ham main dish. You can prepare these a day or two ahead, making them perfect for holiday meals when time is limited.
These colorful treats not only taste great but also add a vibrant pop to your dinner table. Pair them with other simple sides like green beans or potato salad for a complete meal.
13. Carrot Ribbon Salad
Carrot Ribbon Salad brings a bright, colorful element to your ham dinner. This light side dish uses peeled carrots transformed into delicate, twisty ribbons.
The dressing is simple but flavorful, typically made with mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt. This creates a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
You can make this salad quickly with just a vegetable peeler to create the ribbons. It’s a refreshing alternative to heavier sides and adds a pop of orange to your plate.
14. Make-Ahead Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a perfect make-ahead side dish for your ham dinner. You can prepare it up to two days before your meal and simply bake it when needed.
The basic recipe requires just a few ingredients: sweet potatoes, brown sugar, warm spices, and a crunchy topping. Some versions use marshmallows while others prefer a pecan topping for extra crunch.
To make it ahead, prepare everything except the final topping. Cover and refrigerate, then add your topping right before baking.
This time-saving dish brings a sweet complement to the savory flavors of ham.
15. Potato Tart with Goat Cheese and Thyme
This savory tart combines thinly sliced potatoes with creamy goat cheese for a side dish that will impress at your ham dinner. The rich, tangy flavor of goat cheese perfectly complements the earthiness of potatoes.
Fresh thyme adds an aromatic element that enhances both the potatoes and cheese. You can prepare this elegant dish ahead of time and simply reheat before serving.
For extra flavor, add ricotta to the goat cheese mixture as suggested in some recipes. Scallions or chives also make excellent additions for a mild onion flavor.
16. Green Strata with Goat Cheese and Herbs
Green strata is a delicious savory bread pudding that pairs perfectly with ham. This dish combines leafy greens like kale, mustard greens, or chard with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs.
The base consists of bread layers soaked in a mixture of whole milk and heavy cream. Between the layers, add your greens, herbs, and dollops of tangy goat cheese.
When baked, it puffs up beautifully with a golden crust while staying soft and custardy inside. The combination of earthy greens and creamy goat cheese creates a sophisticated side that balances the saltiness of ham.
You can prepare this strata the night before and bake it when needed.
17. Baked Beans with Brown Sugar
Baked beans with brown sugar make a perfect complement to ham. The sweet and savory flavors pair beautifully together on your plate.
These beans feature a rich sauce of brown sugar, barbecue sauce, mustard, and sometimes Worcestershire sauce. The sweetness balances the saltiness of ham.
Adding bacon to your baked beans brings another layer of smoky flavor. Cook onions and green peppers with the bacon for extra depth.
Let your beans simmer so the flavors can blend together. Prepare them ahead of time and reheat when your ham is ready to serve.
18. Buttery Dinner Rolls
Buttery dinner rolls are the perfect complement to ham. They’re soft, warm, and perfect for sopping up ham drippings or making mini sandwiches with leftover meat.
The best rolls have a golden-brown exterior and a fluffy interior. Make them from scratch or use pre-made dough that just needs baking.
For extra flavor, brush the tops with melted butter before and after baking. Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the butter for a special touch.
Serve these rolls warm in a bread basket lined with a cloth napkin to keep them toasty throughout your meal.
19. Cheesy Hasselback Potato Gratin
This stunning potato dish combines the crispy edges of Hasselback potatoes with the creamy goodness of potato gratin. Thinly sliced potatoes are arranged in a cascading pattern, creating crispy tips while the bases remain tender.
Herbs and cheese weave through each slice, creating flavor in every bite. The New York Times version features herb-flecked, cheese-encrusted potatoes that make a beautiful presentation on your holiday table.
You can prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday meal preparation less stressful.
20. Onion Boil
Onion Boil is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with ham. To make this dish, peel and quarter medium-sized onions, then boil them in salted water until tender.
For extra flavor, boil the onions in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. Add a tablespoon of butter and a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cooking liquid.
Once tender, drain the onions and season lightly with salt and pepper. The mild, sweet flavor of boiled onions complements the saltiness of ham without overwhelming it.
21. Pineapple Glazed with Brown Sugar
Pineapple glazed with brown sugar makes a perfect sweet complement to savory ham. The combination creates a delicious caramelized coating that adds both flavor and visual appeal to your meal.
Mix brown sugar with pineapple juice until it forms a thick sauce. Brush this mixture over your ham during the last 30 minutes of baking.
Decorate the ham with pineapple rings and cherries for extra flavor and a pop of color. The fruit infuses more flavor as everything bakes together.
This classic glaze works especially well with spiral-cut hams, creating a sweet contrast to the salty meat.
Pairing Principles for Ham Side Dishes
Creating the perfect ham dinner means thinking carefully about what sides to serve. The right combinations enhance the ham’s flavor while creating a balanced, satisfying meal.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Ham typically has a sweet and salty profile that needs complementary flavors. Acidic sides like vinegar-based salads or citrusy vegetables help cut through the richness of ham.
Sweet sides also work well with ham’s saltiness. Consider honey-glazed carrots or sweet potato dishes to enhance your main dish.
Texture contrast is crucial too. Pair your tender ham with something crispy like roasted vegetables or something creamy like scalloped potatoes.
Flavor Combinations That Work Well:
- Sweet + Salty: Ham with sweet potato casserole
- Rich + Acidic: Ham with vinaigrette-dressed greens
- Savory + Fresh: Ham with steamed asparagus
Seasonal Considerations
Spring ham dinners call for fresh, bright sides. Fresh asparagus, peas, and spring greens showcase seasonal produce while balancing ham’s heartiness.
For winter meals, root vegetables and heartier sides complement ham beautifully. Roasted vegetables, potato gratins, and warming casseroles create a cozy balance.
Your side dish choices should also reflect the occasion. Holiday meals might warrant more elaborate sides like cornbread casserole or Crock-Pot scalloped potatoes. Weeknight dinners work well with simpler options like air fryer green beans.
Seasonal Side Options:
- Spring: Asparagus, pea salad, strawberry spinach salad
- Fall/Winter: Roasted root vegetables, creamed spinach, potato gratin
Serving and Presentation Tips
A beautiful presentation enhances your ham dinner and makes the meal more memorable. The right serving techniques can elevate even simple side dishes and create a cohesive dining experience.
Coordinating Colors and Aromas
Create visual appeal by balancing colors on your plate. Pair your pink ham with vibrant green vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for contrast.
Add orange sweet potatoes or carrots to bring warmth to the plate. Consider aromatic harmony when selecting sides.
Herbs like rosemary and thyme complement ham’s savory profile without competing. Fresh herbs make excellent garnishes and add bright flavor notes.
Use serving dishes of different heights to create dimension on your table. Low, wide platters work well for sliced ham, while taller bowls showcase fluffy potatoes or grain dishes.
Color combinations that work well with ham:
- Green + orange (asparagus and carrots)
- Yellow + purple (corn and red cabbage)
- White + green (scalloped potatoes and green beans)
Plating for Special Occasions
For holiday meals, serve family-style with attractive serving dishes placed strategically around the table. This setup encourages conversation and sharing.
You can elevate everyday dinners by using proper garnishes. Fresh herb sprigs, lemon wedges, or a light dusting of paprika add professional flair to simple dishes.
Pre-warm your serving plates in a low oven (200°F) for 5 minutes before plating hot food. Warm plates keep everything at the proper temperature longer.
For buffet-style service, place complementary dishes near each other. Start the line with your carved ham, then add sauces, and follow with sides in order of heaviness.
Quick presentation boosters:
- Add a pat of herb butter to hot vegetables
- Drizzle sauce in a decorative pattern
- Use edible flowers for special occasions
