Choosing the best side dishes for ham is easy once you balance flavors and textures. Ham is salty, savory, and often a little sweet from a glaze, so it pairs well with creamy, tangy, fresh, and slightly sweet sides. Below you will find classic holiday favorites, lighter options, and make-ahead ideas for any occasion.
How to Choose Sides for Ham
Pick one starchy side, one vegetable, and one fresh or tangy side. That combination keeps the plate balanced without too much work. For a holiday table, add a bread or roll and a simple salad. For a weeknight dinner, two sides are plenty.
Classic Comfort Sides
Scalloped Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy scalloped potatoes are a classic ham partner. Slice potatoes thinly, layer with cream and cheese, and bake until golden. They can be assembled a day ahead and baked before serving.
Macaroni and Cheese
A baked macaroni and cheese adds richness and appeals to both kids and adults. Keep it simple with a sharp cheddar sauce, or add a breadcrumb topping for crunch.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potatoes with a brown sugar and pecan topping echo the sweetness of a glazed ham. For a lighter version, skip the marshmallows and use a nutty crumble instead.
Green Bean Casserole
Green beans with mushrooms and crispy onions add a savory, crunchy contrast. Use fresh or frozen beans for better texture than canned.
Fresh and Lighter Sides
Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus roasted with olive oil, lemon, and a little garlic is quick, elegant, and cuts through the richness of ham.
Glazed Carrots
Carrots glazed with butter, honey, and a pinch of salt are simple and colorful. Add fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
Simple Green Salad
A salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette refreshes the plate. Add sliced apples or pears for a sweet crunch that pairs well with ham.
Coleslaw
Crisp coleslaw with a tangy dressing is ideal for sliced ham sandwiches and casual meals. A vinegar-based slaw stays lighter than a heavy creamy version.
Make-Ahead and Easy Sides
- Baked potatoes with butter, sour cream, and chives — see our guide on how to bake a potato in the oven for perfect results.
- Slow cooker mashed potatoes, which free up oven space on holidays.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze.
- Cornbread or dinner rolls, which are great for soaking up ham juices.
- Deviled eggs, a classic starter that uses the same holiday table well.
If you enjoy cured pork in other forms, our gammon side dishes guide offers more pairing ideas that work just as well with ham.
Holiday Menu Example
For Easter or Christmas, try ham with scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, glazed carrots, dinner rolls, and a simple salad. That menu covers creamy, savory, sweet, and fresh flavors without requiring too many dishes at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best side dishes for ham?
Scalloped potatoes, macaroni and cheese, green bean casserole, roasted vegetables, and glazed carrots are all classic choices. Add a fresh salad or coleslaw to balance the richness.
What vegetables go well with ham?
Asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and peas all pair well. Roasting or glazing them brings out sweetness that matches ham.
How many side dishes should I serve with ham?
For a weeknight meal, two sides are enough. For a holiday, three to five sides give variety without overwhelming the cook. Choose one starchy, one vegetable, and one fresh option as a starting point.
Can I make ham side dishes ahead of time?
Yes. Scalloped potatoes, macaroni and cheese, sweet potato casserole, and coleslaw can be prepared ahead. Mashed potatoes can be kept warm in a slow cooker, and salads should be dressed just before serving.
What is a light side dish for ham?
Roasted asparagus, a simple green salad, steamed green beans with lemon, or vinegar-based coleslaw are lighter options that balance a rich ham dinner.
