Our BEST 30+ Side Dishes for Ham (+ Recipes) (2024)

You can do so much with ham that it’s only natural to be curious about what kind of side dishes for ham go perfectly together.

What we love about ham is that you can cook a large ham in the oven, slow cooker, or on the smoker, and you can have plenty of leftover ham. This leftover ham is great in recipes, but you can also enjoy sliced ham as meals throughout the next week.

When you’re having a well-prepared ham dinner and you have some of the most incredible sides for ham right by its side, everyone around the family will enjoy it.

These ham side dishes are easy to make too so you can continue to keep them in rotation as you make your ham dinner ideas.

Ham, a centerpiece of many festive gatherings and family dinners, is often the star of the show. However, finding the perfect side dishes to complement its rich, savory flavors can elevate the meal to a whole new level. This article explores a variety of delectable side options that not only enhance the taste of your ham but also create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

From classic combinations like scalloped potatoes and green beans to more adventurous pairings, these side dishes bring out the best in your ham centerpiece. They consider various dietary preferences, cooking techniques, and flavor profiles, ensuring that there’s a suitable option for everyone at the table.

Whether hosting a special occasion or simply preparing a delicious Sunday dinner, these side dish ideas will undoubtedly impress and delight your guests. By choosing one or more of these scrumptious accompaniments, your meal will be both memorable and mouth-watering.

Ham dinner sides can be just as savory as your dinner or they can be sweet and compliment your main dish.

In the list below you’ll find the perfect side dishes for Easter ham, Christmas side dishes for ham, and all kinds of side dishes to go with ham.

So sit back and learn what to serve with ham so that the next time you have this delectable meat you know exactly what to serve everyone!

Source: kaynutrition.com

1. Mashed Cauliflower

When you’re looking for the same consistency and taste as mashed potatoes but want a much healthier version, this mashed cauliflower recipe is calling your name.

Cauliflower is such a versatile vegetable and it really takes on the flavor of whatever you add to it. It’s great for Easter sides dishes with ham.

It’s a great low-carb option and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at your dinner table.

Source: foxandbriar.com

2. Mashed Potatoes

If you’re wondering what goes with ham then you’ve found the perfect match!

This mashed potatoes recipe is super easy to make because all you need are some potatoes and some butter and you have the perfect side dish for ham.

If you’re feeling really crazy you’ll add some pepper to your mashed potatoes to give them just a tiny bit of kick.

Now, hold on to your seat, you can even add some garlic if you’re really feeling adventurous.

Source: homemadehooplah.com

3. Retro Jello Salad

You’ll feel like you’re back in your grandmothers home with this retro jello salad.

It’s a throwback to the good old days and it’s really easy to make. All you need is some jello, fruit, whipped cream, and nuts.

It’s the perfect side dish for any get together and it’ll definitely be a conversation starter. Who doesn’t love a good jello salad?

Source: grandbaby-cakes.com

4. Scalloped Potatoes

Although not quite as classic as the regular mashed potatoes, this scalloped potatoes recipe is a delicious way to mix things up.

This dish is made with thinly sliced potatoes that are layered in a baking dish and then covered in cheese and cream so how could you go wrong?

It’s best if you let it bake in the oven for about 30 minutes so the potatoes are cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Source: ambitiouskitchen.com

5. Crockpot Baked Beans

Don’t have a lot of time on your hands but still want a delicious side dish? These crockpot baked beans are the perfect solution.

You just need a few simple ingredients like navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, bacon, and onion.

The best part is that you can just set it and forget it so you can focus on the rest of your dinner preparations.

Source: flavormosaic.com

6. Sweet Potato Casserole

Forget regular potatoes if you want to know what goes with ham dinner because this sweet potato casserole recipe is about to steal the show.

This dish is a mix of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and Thanksgiving spices so it’s perfect for all kinds of meals.

You’ll want to bake this casserole for about 45 minutes so the potatoes are cooked through and the top is nice and golden brown.

Source: lifeisbutadish.com

7. Artichokes with Lemon Mayo

Artichokes aren’t a common ingredient but when you add in some lemon mayo they’re irresistible.

You’ll need some artichokes, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper for this recipe.

This is a perfect compliment to your savory ham dinner and it’s really easy to make. Just be careful when you’re preparing the artichokes because they can be a little tricky.

Source: dinnerthendessert.com

8. Green Bean Casserole

The green bean casserole has been around since your grandmother was cooking and the taste is just as good today as it was back then.

This dish is made with fresh green beans that are boiled and then mixed with a creamy sauce and topped with crispy onions.

You’ll bake this casserole for about 25 minutes so the green beans are cooked through and the top is golden brown and bubbly and it’s sure to please al the taste buds at the table.

Source: waitrose.com

9. Braised Red Cabbage

The beautiful look of this braised red cabbage will definitely wow your guests.

The combination of flavors are sure to please any palate so you can feel confident serving this side dish. Red cabbage can sometimes be a little bitter so adding some sweetness will really take this recipe to a new level.

It’s a dish that takes a little bit of time to prepare but it’s definitely worth it in the end.

Source: centslessdeals.com

10. Roasted Asparagus

Super simple to make and one of the best sides to go with ham, roasted asparagus is a must try.

All you need is a bunch of asparagus, some olive oil, salt, and pepper and you’re good to go.

You’ll roast the asparagus in the oven for about 15 minutes so it’s nice and crispy and it’s the perfect complement to your ham dinner.

You can make a ton of this dish in a pan and stick it in the oven and not even have to worry about sides for the rest of the night.

Source: gourmettraveler.com.au

11. Seasonal Green Salad

When you’re tired of the heavy savory sides that usually accompany ham dinners it’s time to try this seasonal green salad.

It’ll only take you a few minutes to put together and it’s really healthy for you. You can use any greens that you like and add in some fruit or nuts for added flavor. It’s the perfect side to help detox after all of that holiday food.

You can whip it up super quick too so if you don’t have a ton of time on your hands this is the go-to dish.

Source: healthydelicious.com

12. Spaghetti Squash

Here’s a great side dish with ham as the main course that will not only taste fantastic but is also healthy for you.

This spaghetti squash dish is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and it’s so easy to make.

All you need is a spaghetti squash that you’ll cut in half, roast in the oven for about 30 minutes, and then use a fork to pull out the cooked squash.

Source: cookingwithco*cktailrings.com

13. Mini Cranberry Pot Pies

Ham is usually served on holidays so it’s no surprise this mini cranberry pot pie is the perfect side.

The dough can easily be made in a food processor so you don’t have to worry about any hard labor. The filling is just as easy with cranberries added in so you’ll get that perfect thanksgiving taste.

These are mini pies so that everyone can have one but you could also make one big pot pie and just let everyone have a go at it.

Source: yourcupofcake.com

14. Honey Glazed Carrots

Carrots are a great way to add some healthy veggies to your ham dinner but honey-glazed carrots are no joke.

They have a mouth-watering taste that will make you forget all about regular old carrots.

These carrots are made with honey, butter, and a touch of cinnamon so they’re sweet and savory at the same time.

This is another one of those dishes you can make a bunch of but it won’t take you any longer to make.

Source: loveandlemons.com

15. Oven Roasted Vegetables

The best part about oven-roasted vegetables is just how many combinations you can create.

You’ll need some carrots, potatoes, green beans, red onion, olive oil, salt, black pepper, or any veggies you have on hand because it will all taste great.

It’s one of the easiest side dishes you can make and it’s also really healthy for you. You’ll be able to get your daily serving of veggies in with just a few simple steps.

Source: whereismyspoon.co

16. Dinner Rolls

Simple and classic, the dinner roll is a must-have side dish for any ham dinner.

You can either buy them from the store or make them from scratch and they’ll be delicious no matter what.

Dinner rolls are best when they’re freshly baked so you might want to start making these a little bit before your ham dinner is actually scheduled to happen.

They are the perfect way to make yourself a little delicious ham sandwich too with the perfect bread.

Source: food52.com

17. Warm Farro & Mustard Green Salad With Maple-Roasted Acorn Squash

This is a salad that you’ve definitely never tried before and taste will make you do a little dance of happiness.

The combination of flavors is really something special and it’s the perfect side to any main dish.

Don’t let the ingredient list make you hesitate on trying this out, it’s a lot easier than it seems.

Source: thefoodcharlatan.com

18. Cornbread

You’ll find a plate of cornbread right by the ham at any table in the south and for good reason.

It’s the perfect side dish to go with ham and it’s so easy to make. All you need is some cornmeal, flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and butter and you’re good to go.

You’ll bake this cornbread in a cast iron skillet for about 25 minutes or until it’s golden brown and it’ll be the perfect addition to your ham dinner.

Source: purewow.com

19. Goat Cheese, Apple, & Honey Tarts

Add a little bit of sophistication to your ham dinner by serving these goat cheese, apple, and honey tarts.

You’ll need puff pastry, goat cheese, apples, honey, eggs, sugar, flour, and salt.

This side or appetizer might take a little longer to prepare but the presentation and taste are unmatched.

Source: seasonsandsuppers.ca

20. Mac and Cheese

Who can honestly deny the fantastic flavors of mac and cheese?

This side dish is the perfect comfort food for any winter meal and it’s so easy to make.

All you need is some macaroni, butter, flour, milk, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese.

You’ll cook the macaroni in a pot of boiling water until it’s soft and then you’ll mix it with the creamy cheese sauce for the perfect ham side.

Source: superhealthykids.com

21. Rhubarb Applesauce

When you want a side dish that has a lot more sweetness to it you have to turn to this rhubarb applesauce.

You’ll need some rhubarb, strawberries, sugar, water, cinnamon, and nutmeg for added flavor.

Simply chop up the rhubarb and strawberries and put them in a pot with the rest of the ingredients. Bring it to a boil and then let it simmer for about 30 minutes for a side dish that goes perfectly with baked ham.

Source: easyweeknightrecipes.com

22. Creamed Spinach

Spinach is a great dish all on its own if cooked right but creamed spinach will absolutely blow your mind if you’ve never had it before.

The wonderful combination of spinach and cream is out of this world and it’s so easy to make.

All you need is a bag of fresh spinach, some butter, onion, garlic, flour, milk, salt, and pepper.

Make a ton of this if you have some guests coming over because everyone will be grabbing at it for seconds.

Source: camillestyles.com

23. Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprout

Just roasting brussels sprouts on their own doesn’t quite have the same explosion of flavor as this cacio e pepe version.

You’ll need some olive oil, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic, Brussels sprouts, salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese.

Simply mix everything together and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes. The cheese will get all nice and crispy on top and you’ll be in for a real treat.

Source: diethood.com

24. Broccolini

Broccolini is the better tasting cousin to broccoli because it’s a little sweeter and it has a more tender texture.

It’s the perfect side dish for any ham dinner and it’s so easy to make. Simply roast broccolini in the oven for about 15 minutes and you’re done.

You can also drizzle it with a little bit of olive oil or balsamic vinegar along with some salt to give it that perfect chef’s kiss taste.

Source: skinnyspatula.com

25. Wild Rice & Mushroom Pilaf

Pilaf is a dish that always seems to impress no matter who you’re cooking for.

This version is a simple and easy combination of wild rice, mushrooms, butter, and vegetable broth. It’ll take you about 30 minutes to make from start to finish and it’s perfect for any holiday feast.

You can add in whatever herbs and spices you like to give it that extra bit of flavor. It’ll be sure to impress your guests and they’ll be asking for the dish recipe.

Source: barefeetinthekitchen.com

26. Corn Pudding

When you’re tired of having regular corn on the cob as your side dish for ham, switch it up with some corn pudding.

This dish is a creamy and comforting combination of corn, milk, sugar, and butter. It’s so easy to make and you’ll only need about 30 minutes to bake it in the oven.

Top it off with some crispy bacon for that salty crunch and you’ll be in side dish heaven.

Source: allrecipes.com

27. Creamy Potato, Carrot, & Leek Soup

Here’s a side to your ham dinner that will keep the belly warm on a cold winter night.

You’ll need some potatoes, carrots, onion, leeks, butter, flour, chicken broth, milk, and salt and pepper to taste.

Make sure you have some bread on the side to be able to sop up all of that delicious soup so that none of it goes to waste.

It’s best if you make a big old pot too so that the entire family can have something comforting throughout the week.

Source: sixsistersstuff.com

28. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are the best side or appetizer to your ham dinner because it’s so much more than just a regular egg.

Simply hard boil some eggs, remove the yolks, mix them with some mayo, mustard, and relish, and pipe them back into the eggs. You can also add some bacon or chives on top for that extra bit of flavor.

These eggs will be the talk of the table and everyone will love them.

Source: themerchantbaker.com

29. Pineapple Stuffing

When you’re looking to switch it up for your ham sides you have to try this pineapple stuffing.

It’s a sweet and savory combination of bread, pineapple, and herbs that will leave you wanting more. It’s definitely a dish that will make your dinner stand out from the rest.

Once you have a biteyou might never want to go back to your plain and boring old stuffing ever again.

Source: butterbeready.com

30. Collard Greens

This southern classic has so much flavor you’ll be wondering why you haven’t been eating it all your life.

Collard greens are a great side dish for ham because they’re hearty and filling. You’ll need about an hour to cook them low and slow on the stove but it’s definitely worth the wait.

You can season them with bacon, ham, onions, garlic, salt, and pepper for that perfect combination of flavors.

Source: tastesbetterfromscratch.com

31. Potato Salad

You can’t really have a ham dinner without a homemade potato salad .

This dish is a must have for any potluck or picnic and it’s incredibly simple to make. You’ll need some boiled potatoes, mayo, mustard, vinegar, salt, pepper, and some chopped onion and celery for added flavor.

Mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bust it out at the table.