Comfort Food Complements: What Side Dish Goes with Ham and Scalloped Potatoes?

The table is set, the ham is glazed to perfection, and the scalloped potatoes are bubbling with cheesy goodness. But something feels incomplete. What side dish goes with ham and scalloped potatoes to elevate this meal from satisfying to unforgettable? That’s the question I find myself asking time and again, and it’s one every cook faces when crafting the perfect dinner.

After 15 years of experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve come to realize that the right side dish isn’t just about filling space on the plate.

It’s about balance—bringing flavors, textures, and even a bit of visual appeal that complements the richness of ham and the creaminess of scalloped potatoes. In this article, we’ll explore an array of side dishes, from fresh salads to hearty casseroles, that will turn your meal into a memorable feast.

What Side Dish Goes with Ham and Scalloped Potatoes

Vegetable-Based Side Dishes

Green Beans Almondine: A Classic Companion

When it comes to pairing with ham and scalloped potatoes, green beans almondine is a timeless choice. There’s something about the crisp-tender green beans tossed in a buttery sauce with toasted almonds that just works. It’s light, it’s crunchy, and the slight nuttiness from the almonds adds a whole new dimension. The balance is crucial here; you don’t want anything too heavy, as the ham and potatoes already bring that to the table.

Green beans almondine is not just about flavor—it’s about texture too. The snap of fresh green beans against the rich, soft layers of scalloped potatoes creates a harmony that feels like a well-composed melody. And let’s not forget how easy this dish is to prepare. Just blanch the beans, toss them in a hot pan with some butter, garlic, and almonds, and you’re done. It’s the kind of simplicity that makes cooking feel effortless yet rewarding.

Roasted Vegetables: A Burst of Color and Flavor

Roasted vegetables are a beautiful, rustic side dish that can transform any meal into a feast. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash are my go-to trio here. When roasted, these veggies caramelize into something magical, with their natural sweetness intensifying. The slight char on the edges brings out the complexity of their flavors, making them stand out even when placed next to rich dishes like ham and scalloped potatoes.

Here’s the trick: keep it simple. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, maybe a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme, and let your oven do the rest. The result is a medley of textures and tastes—crisp-tender Brussels sprouts, sweet and soft carrots, and the earthy, smooth squash. Not only does this side dish add a pop of color to your plate, but it also offers a different kind of satisfaction that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy goodness of scalloped potatoes.

Glazed Carrots: Sweet and Savory Perfection

If you’re searching for a side that’s both sweet and savory, look no further than glazed carrots. These little gems can be the unsung heroes of your dinner table. The natural sweetness of the carrots, enhanced by a glaze of honey or brown sugar, with a touch of butter and a hint of thyme, creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and complex.

Glazed carrots are not just a side dish; they’re a treat. Their vibrant color brightens up the plate, while their sweetness provides a perfect counterbalance to the saltiness of ham and the richness of scalloped potatoes. And the best part? They’re easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Just cook the carrots until tender, then toss them in the glaze until they’re beautifully coated. It’s a simple side that delivers big on flavor.

Asparagus Spears: Elegant Simplicity

Asparagus spears are the epitome of elegance on a plate. Their crisp, slightly bitter flavor is a wonderful contrast to the creaminess of scalloped potatoes and the savory notes of ham. Whether you steam them, roast them, or give them a quick sauté, asparagus brings a light, fresh element to your meal that’s hard to beat.

The trick with asparagus is to not overthink it. A drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, a dash of salt and pepper—sometimes, that’s all you need. For a bit of extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a few slivers of garlic. The result is a side dish that’s as simple as it is sophisticated, offering a bright, clean taste that cuts through the richness of your main courses. Asparagus is the kind of side that doesn’t just complement your meal; it elevates it.

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Match Made in Heaven

Brussels sprouts and bacon—can you think of a better combination? The bitterness of the Brussels sprouts paired with the smoky, salty crunch of bacon is a match made in culinary heaven. When roasted together, the sprouts become tender and caramelized, while the bacon crisps up into little bites of joy. This dish is rich, flavorful, and downright satisfying.

What makes Brussels sprouts with bacon an ideal side for ham and scalloped potatoes is the way it bridges the gap between the salty and the savory. The bacon echoes the flavor of the ham, while the sprouts offer a slightly bitter, earthy counterpoint. Together, they create a balance that’s nothing short of perfection.

Brussels sprouts with bacon is a side dish that doesn’t just sit on the plate; it makes a statement. It’s bold, it’s flavorful, and it’s the kind of dish that makes you look forward to every bite.

Potato-Based Side Dishes

Mashed Potatoes: The Comfort of Creaminess

Mashed potatoes. They’re like a warm hug on a chilly day, aren’t they? Silky smooth, with just the right amount of butter and cream to make them luscious, but not so much that they become a heavy burden on the plate. The beauty of mashed potatoes lies in their simplicity, yet they offer endless possibilities. You can whip them up until they’re light and airy, or leave a few chunks in for a more rustic texture. But the goal remains the same: to create a side that’s both comforting and versatile.

What’s fascinating is how mashed potatoes pair with almost anything. With ham and scalloped potatoes, they don’t compete; instead, they complement. The fluffy texture of the mash contrasts beautifully with the layered, cheesy goodness of the scalloped potatoes. It’s like they were meant to be together, each bite bringing out the best in the other.

And let’s not forget how easy it is to elevate mashed potatoes. A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chives, or a hint of garlic—these small additions can transform a simple side dish into something extraordinary. It’s this kind of flexibility that makes mashed potatoes an enduring favorite on dinner tables everywhere.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes: A Crispy, Flavorful Delight

There’s something almost primal about roasted potatoes. The way the edges crisp up while the insides stay soft and tender—it’s pure, unadulterated comfort food. But when you add garlic into the mix, something magical happens. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, but it’s the flavor that truly captivates. Each bite bursts with the savory goodness of roasted garlic, balanced by the earthiness of the potatoes.

Garlic roasted potatoes are the kind of side dish that can stand on their own. They’re bold, they’re flavorful, and they bring a level of satisfaction that’s hard to beat. And when served alongside ham and scalloped potatoes, they add a different dimension to the meal. The crispy exterior of the roasted potatoes contrasts with the creamy layers of the scalloped potatoes, creating a textural symphony that’s hard to resist.

But here’s the thing—garlic roasted potatoes are deceptively simple to make. Tossing the potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a generous amount of minced garlic before roasting them in a hot oven is all it takes. The result is a side dish that’s packed with flavor yet doesn’t overshadow the main courses. It’s the perfect balance.

Sweet Potato Casserole: Sweet Meets Savory

Sweet potato casserole. Now there’s a dish that can spark debate at any table. Some like it with marshmallows on top, others prefer a crunchy pecan streusel. Either way, it’s a dish that walks the line between side dish and dessert, but does so with grace. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, when combined with a buttery, brown sugar topping, creates a rich, decadent dish that can hold its own next to savory ham and creamy scalloped potatoes.

What makes sweet potato casserole truly special is its versatility. It’s sweet, yes, but not cloyingly so. The sweetness is balanced by the earthy undertones of the sweet potatoes, and if you opt for a pecan topping, you get a wonderful crunch that adds texture to the dish. It’s this balance of flavors and textures that makes sweet potato casserole a must-have on the dinner table.

But the real magic happens when the casserole is baked. The top becomes caramelized and slightly crispy, while the inside stays soft and luscious. This contrast is what makes every bite so satisfying. And when paired with the salty, savory ham and the rich, cheesy scalloped potatoes, it’s a combination that’s hard to beat.

Potato Gratin: Layers of Creamy Indulgence

Potato gratin is one of those dishes that feels indulgent, and rightly so. Thinly sliced potatoes, layered with cream, cheese, and sometimes even a hint of garlic or nutmeg, then baked until bubbly and golden brown—it’s the kind of dish that turns a meal into a celebration. The creamy layers, infused with the flavors of the cheese and spices, create a side dish that’s both rich and comforting.

But potato gratin is more than just indulgence; it’s about balance. The thin slices of potato absorb the cream and cheese, becoming tender and flavorful, yet retaining just enough texture to provide a satisfying bite. It’s this interplay of creaminess and texture that makes potato gratin such a beloved dish.

And let’s not overlook the visual appeal. When you pull a potato gratin out of the oven, with its golden, bubbling top, it’s a sight to behold. It’s the kind of dish that draws people to the table, eager to dig in. And when paired with ham and scalloped potatoes, it adds another layer of richness to the meal, creating a feast that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

When thinking about what side dish goes with ham and scalloped potatoes, potato-based sides naturally come to mind. They’re familiar, they’re comforting, and they offer a variety of textures and flavors that complement the main dishes perfectly.

Bread and Grain-Based Side Dishes

Cornbread: The Golden Touch

Cornbread, with its golden hue and crumbly texture, is like a warm ray of sunshine on your plate. It’s the kind of bread that doesn’t just sit quietly beside your main dishes—it makes its presence known. The slight sweetness, the crumbly, almost cake-like texture, and that delightful crisp edge from baking it in a cast-iron skillet all come together to make cornbread the perfect companion for ham and scalloped potatoes.

Imagine a bite of savory ham, followed by the creamy, cheesy layers of scalloped potatoes, and then, as a contrast, the sweet, buttery morsel of cornbread. It’s a trifecta of flavors that dance together in harmony. Cornbread isn’t just a side—it’s a statement. A statement that says, “This meal is meant to be savored.”

What’s even better is how adaptable cornbread is. You can mix in some jalapeños for a spicy kick, add a handful of cheddar for extra richness, or keep it simple and let the cornmeal shine. Either way, it’s a side that holds its own, bringing warmth and a touch of sweetness to the table.

Dinner Rolls: Soft, Pillowy Perfection

There’s something about dinner rolls that feels like home. Soft, pillowy, and just the right amount of chewy, they’re the kind of bread that you can’t resist reaching for—especially when they’re fresh out of the oven, with a pat of butter melting into the golden crust.

Dinner rolls bring a softness to the table that’s unmatched. They’re the perfect vehicle for sopping up the creamy sauce from scalloped potatoes or pairing with a slice of ham. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the simple pleasure of tearing into a warm, buttery roll during a meal? It’s comfort food at its finest.

What makes dinner rolls so special is their simplicity. They don’t need to be fancy or complicated. Just a good dough, a bit of butter, and a hot oven. The result? A side dish that’s comforting, familiar, and utterly satisfying.

Garlic Bread: A Bold, Flavorful Choice

Garlic bread—now that’s a side with personality. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with the bold flavor of garlic and butter. It’s the kind of bread that doesn’t just sit idly by; it demands attention.

The beauty of garlic bread lies in its versatility. You can keep it simple with just garlic and butter, or you can elevate it with a sprinkle of Parmesan, a dash of parsley, or even a bit of mozzarella for a cheesy twist. No matter how you prepare it, garlic bread brings a burst of flavor that complements the savory ham and the rich, creamy scalloped potatoes perfectly.

But here’s the thing—garlic bread isn’t just about flavor. It’s about texture too. The crisp edges, the soft, buttery center, the slight chewiness of the bread itself—it all comes together to create a side dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to taste. It’s a side that adds boldness to the meal, balancing out the richness of the other dishes with its vibrant flavors.

Cheddar Biscuits: Savory and Cheesy Goodness

Cheddar biscuits are the kind of side dish that makes you wonder why you ever settled for plain bread. Flaky, buttery, and packed with the sharp tang of cheddar cheese, these biscuits are a savory delight that brings a whole new level of indulgence to the table.

There’s something magical about the way cheddar biscuits pair with ham and scalloped potatoes. The sharpness of the cheddar cuts through the richness of the potatoes, while the buttery, flaky layers of the biscuit provide a satisfying contrast to the salty, savory ham. It’s a combination that’s both comforting and exciting, familiar yet somehow new every time.

Cheddar biscuits aren’t just a side—they’re an experience. Whether you enjoy them warm, with the cheese still gooey, or at room temperature, where the flavors have had time to meld, these biscuits are a must-have. And the best part? They’re just as easy to make as they are to eat. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of baking know-how, you can have a basket of these golden, cheesy delights ready to go in no time.

When considering what side dish goes with ham and scalloped potatoes, bread and grain-based sides offer a range of flavors and textures that enhance the meal without overwhelming it. Each of these options brings something unique to the table, making your meal not just complete, but unforgettable.

Casserole-Based Side Dishes

Broccoli Casserole: A Cheesy, Comforting Classic

Broccoli casserole—now that’s a dish that knows how to make an entrance. It’s got everything you want in a side dish: tender broccoli florets nestled in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with a crunchy, buttery breadcrumb crust. When you pull it out of the oven, bubbling and golden, it’s hard not to dive right in.

There’s something about the way the slight bitterness of the broccoli balances the richness of the cheese. It’s a combination that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time. And then there’s that texture. The broccoli retains just enough bite to stand up to the creaminess, while the crispy topping adds a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Broccoli casserole pairs beautifully with ham and scalloped potatoes. The cheese echoes the creamy layers of the scalloped potatoes, while the broccoli adds a fresh, green element that brightens up the plate. It’s a side that doesn’t just complement the meal—it elevates it.

Sweet Potato Casserole: A Sweet and Savory Fusion

Sweet potato casserole might just be the ultimate side dish for those who can’t decide between sweet and savory. It’s like having dessert with your dinner, but in the most balanced way possible. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, paired with a buttery, brown sugar topping, creates a dish that’s rich, decadent, and incredibly satisfying.

But what really makes sweet potato casserole stand out is the texture. The sweet potatoes are soft and creamy, almost like a puree, while the topping—whether you go with marshmallows or a pecan streusel—adds a contrasting crunch that’s downright addictive. It’s this interplay of textures and flavors that makes each bite an experience.

And when you think about what side dish goes with ham and scalloped potatoes, sweet potato casserole brings a unique twist. It adds a sweet note that contrasts beautifully with the salty ham, while the richness of the dish holds its own against the creamy scalloped potatoes. It’s the kind of side dish that makes your meal feel complete.

Green Bean Casserole: The Crunchy, Creamy Crowd-Pleaser

Green bean casserole is one of those dishes that seems to show up at every holiday gathering, and for good reason. It’s a crowd-pleaser, plain and simple. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions is a classic for a reason. It’s comforting, familiar, and oh-so-satisfying.

The beauty of green bean casserole lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t try to be fancy or complicated. Instead, it focuses on delivering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. The green beans provide a fresh, crisp element that cuts through the richness of the sauce, while the fried onions add a crunch that makes the whole dish pop.

When paired with ham and scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole adds a welcome contrast. The freshness of the green beans lightens up the plate, while the creamy sauce ties everything together. It’s a side dish that complements the meal without overshadowing the other elements.

Carrot Casserole: An Unexpected Delight

Carrot casserole might not be the first dish that comes to mind when planning a meal, but it’s one that shouldn’t be overlooked. Carrots, with their natural sweetness and vibrant color, bring a unique flavor to the table that’s both surprising and delightful.

In a carrot casserole, the carrots are typically sliced thin and layered with a creamy, cheesy sauce, much like a potato gratin. The result is a dish that’s rich, yet light, with the carrots providing a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.

What makes carrot casserole stand out is its unexpectedness. It’s a dish that catches people off guard—in a good way. The sweetness of the carrots, combined with the richness of the sauce, creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and new. It’s the kind of dish that makes you rethink what a casserole can be.

And when served alongside ham and scalloped potatoes, carrot casserole adds a burst of color and flavor that enhances the meal. It’s a side dish that brings something different to the table, making your dinner feel both comforting and exciting.

Fresh and Light Side Dishes

Caesar Salad: Crisp, Bold, and Satisfying

Caesar salad is more than just a side—it’s a statement. The crunch of romaine, the sharpness of Parmesan, the punch of garlic, and that creamy dressing that clings to every leaf—it’s a salad that refuses to be ignored. There’s a reason it’s a classic. It brings a freshness to the table that cuts through the richness of ham and scalloped potatoes, adding a layer of complexity to the meal.

I love how the crisp romaine plays off the creaminess of the dressing. It’s a dance of textures, a balance of flavors that just works. And those croutons? Golden, crunchy little bites that add just the right amount of heft to the salad. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a partner to the main event, holding its own without overshadowing the stars of the show.

Waldorf Salad: A Symphony of Sweet and Crunchy

Waldorf salad—it’s like biting into a fresh, crisp autumn day. The apples, the celery, the walnuts, all tossed in a tangy-sweet dressing that pulls everything together. It’s a side dish that brings a burst of freshness, a lightness that contrasts beautifully with the heavier, more savory elements of the meal.

What I adore about Waldorf salad is the way it surprises you. The sweetness of the apples, the slight bitterness of the walnuts, the crunch of the celery—it’s a symphony of textures and flavors. It doesn’t compete with the ham or the scalloped potatoes; it complements them, bringing a different kind of satisfaction to the table.

And let’s talk about the dressing. That tangy, slightly sweet concoction that binds everything together. It’s not heavy, but it’s not shy either. It’s there, making sure every bite is as refreshing as the last.

Roasted Butternut Squash: Earthy and Sweet

Roasted butternut squash is the epitome of simplicity, yet it never fails to impress. The natural sweetness of the squash, enhanced by a bit of caramelization in the oven, brings an earthy depth to the meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels like it’s always been there, comforting in its familiarity yet exciting in its pure, straightforward flavor.

The key to roasted butternut squash is patience. Letting it roast slowly until it’s tender and just slightly caramelized around the edges. That’s where the magic happens. The sweetness intensifies, the texture softens, and what you’re left with is a side dish that feels both rustic and refined.

When paired with the richness of ham and scalloped potatoes, roasted butternut squash provides a grounding element. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable, offering a sweet counterbalance to the savory and creamy notes on the plate.

Asparagus with Lemon: Bright, Crisp, and Zesty

Asparagus with lemon—now that’s a side dish that knows how to wake up your taste buds. The bright, zesty flavor of the lemon paired with the crisp, slightly bitter asparagus creates a side that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need much to shine—just a quick blanch or roast, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and maybe a drizzle of olive oil.

What I love about asparagus with lemon is how it brings a burst of freshness to the meal. The lemon cuts through the richness of the ham and scalloped potatoes, while the asparagus adds a crunchy, vibrant element that lightens up the plate. It’s simple, it’s elegant, and it’s exactly what you need to balance out the heavier flavors of the main dishes.

And then there’s the color. That bright green against the golden, cheesy potatoes and the pink, glazed ham—it’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. Asparagus with lemon doesn’t just complement the meal; it elevates it, adding a touch of brightness that ties everything together.

FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With Ham And Scalloped Potatoes

What vegetables pair well with ham and scalloped potatoes?

When thinking of vegetables, green beans often come to mind. Their crisp texture and slightly sweet flavor balance out the richness of ham and scalloped potatoes. Roasted Brussels sprouts add a caramelized depth, while asparagus offers a bright, zesty contrast. Broccoli also works, especially in a cheesy casserole.

Can you serve salad with ham and scalloped potatoes?

Absolutely. A Caesar salad with its crisp romaine and tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the meal. Waldorf salad adds a sweet, crunchy element, and a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette brings freshness. These salads lighten the plate and complement the savory flavors.

What bread complements ham and scalloped potatoes?

Cornbread is a classic, with its slight sweetness offering a perfect contrast. Dinner rolls provide a soft, buttery option that’s great for soaking up any extra sauce. Garlic bread adds a bold flavor that pairs well with the savory ham, while cheddar biscuits bring a cheesy indulgence to the table.

Should I include a casserole side with ham and scalloped potatoes?

Including a casserole can elevate your meal. A broccoli casserole adds a creamy, cheesy vegetable option. Green bean casserole brings a familiar, comforting taste. Sweet potato casserole offers a sweet-savory balance, while a carrot casserole surprises with its subtle sweetness and vibrant color.

Is fruit a good side dish with ham and scalloped potatoes?

Fruit can be a refreshing counterpoint. Cranberry sauce offers tartness that balances the meal. A Waldorf salad with apples and grapes adds a sweet crunch. Apple chutney brings a tangy, spiced flavor that complements the savory ham and the creamy richness of scalloped potatoes.

How can I add a light, fresh element to the meal?

For a lighter touch, asparagus with lemon is ideal—bright, zesty, and crisp. Roasted butternut squash adds a sweet, earthy note. A Caesar salad brings a refreshing crunch, while a simple mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette keeps the meal feeling balanced and not too heavy.

Can I serve a grain-based side with ham and scalloped potatoes?

Yes, grain-based sides work well. A quinoa salad with herbs and lemon is light and refreshing. Wild rice pilaf adds a nutty depth, while couscous provides a fluffy texture that soaks up the flavors. These grains add variety without overpowering the main dishes.

What are some unexpected sides to serve with ham and scalloped potatoes?

Try a carrot casserole for a sweet surprise. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash bring an earthy, caramelized flavor. Garlic bread adds a bold twist, while a Waldorf salad introduces a sweet, crunchy element. These unexpected sides can elevate the meal in surprising ways.

Should I offer more than one side dish with ham and scalloped potatoes?

Offering multiple sides can enhance the dining experience. A combination of a vegetable, a bread, and a salad ensures variety. For example, pairing garlic bread, Caesar salad, and roasted Brussels sprouts offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures, complementing the main dishes beautifully.

How do I make sure the side dishes complement each other?

Balance is key. Choose sides that offer a mix of textures—crispy, creamy, and fresh. Consider flavors—a mix of savory, sweet, and tangy works well. Think about colors too; a vibrant salad or roasted vegetables can brighten the plate. This approach ensures a harmonious meal.

Conclusion

Deciding what side dish goes with ham and scalloped potatoes isn’t just about filling up the plate—it’s about creating a meal that resonates, a symphony of flavors that complement each other seamlessly. Whether it’s the crisp, refreshing bite of a Caesar salad, the sweet and savory balance of a sweet potato casserole, or the comforting warmth of garlic bread, each side dish plays its part in making the meal complete.

Incorporating vegetables like green beans or asparagus, or indulging in the rich creaminess of a broccoli casserole, adds depth and variety, ensuring every bite is an experience.

It’s about balance, harmony, and a touch of creativity—choosing sides that don’t just support the ham and scalloped potatoes, but elevate them, bringing the whole meal together in a way that feels both satisfying and unforgettable. Let your choices reflect the care and thought that went into the main dish, making the entire dinner a culinary triumph.