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Ham is easy. Figuring out what side dish goes with ham is where most people get stuck.
You’ve got the glazed ham ready for Easter, Christmas, or a regular Sunday dinner. But the sides? That’s what actually makes or breaks the meal.
After years of cooking ham for holidays and weeknight dinners, I’ve learned that the best side dishes do one thing well. They balance the salty, smoky richness of the meat with something creamy, something fresh, or something sweet.
This guide covers the best ham dinner side dishes, from scalloped potatoes and macaroni and cheese to roasted vegetables and classic dinner rolls. Each one includes how to make it, seasoning tips, and easy variations you can try.
Whether you’re planning a holiday ham dinner menu or just need a quick side for a weeknight meal, you’ll find something here that fits.
Best Side Dishes for Ham
Scalloped Potatoes
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
The creamy, starchy layers of scalloped potatoes balance out the salty, smoky flavor of a glazed ham. It’s one of those pairings that just works, every single time.
The richness of the bechamel sauce soaks into each thin potato slice. And that salty ham on the side? It cuts right through the creaminess. This is comfort food at its best, whether you’re cooking for Easter dinner or a regular Sunday meal.
How to Make It
Start by making a roux with butter and flour in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in whole milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Layer thinly sliced russet potatoes in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Pour the sauce over each layer. Bake covered at 350 degrees F for about 50 minutes, then uncover for another 25 to 30 minutes until the top gets golden brown.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- Use sharp cheddar or Gruyere between layers for a cheesy au gratin version
- Add thinly sliced onions for extra depth
- A touch of garlic powder goes a long way here
- Dot the top with butter before that final uncovered bake
Variations to Try
Swap in Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture. You can also mix in leftover ham directly into the casserole, turning it into a full main dish. Some people add a layer of sliced mushrooms or stir in Dijon mustard for a sharper bite.
If you’re serving this alongside ham and scalloped potatoes, keep the rest of your menu lighter. A green salad works perfectly.
How to Serve It with Ham
Scoop a generous portion next to thick slices of spiral ham. Let the casserole rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking so the sauce sets up properly.
This dish reheats well too. Leftover scalloped potatoes with ham are almost better the next day, honestly.
Macaroni and Cheese
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
Macaroni and cheese brings that rich, cheesy factor that works so well against the smoky saltiness of a baked ham. There’s a reason this pairing shows up at pretty much every holiday dinner in the South.
The creamy pasta fills people up without overpowering the star of the meal. Kids love it. Adults love it. Nobody ever complains when mac and cheese is on the table.
How to Make It
Cook elbow macaroni until just al dente. Make a cheese sauce by whisking flour into melted butter, then slowly adding milk. Stir in sharp cheddar and a bit of cream cheese until smooth.
Combine the pasta and sauce in a baking dish. Top with more shredded cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake at 375 degrees F for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- A teaspoon of dry mustard adds a subtle kick that makes the cheese pop
- Smoked paprika brings another layer of smoky flavor
- Use a mix of cheeses: cheddar, Gruyere, and a little Parmesan
Variations to Try
Stir in diced ham for a one-dish meal. Or go fancy with truffle oil and a Panko crust. If you want to try something different entirely, check out what pairs well with macaroni and cheese as a main.
For a lighter take, use cauliflower in the cheese sauce. It cuts the heaviness without losing that creamy texture.
How to Serve It with Ham
Serve it family-style in the baking dish. A big spoon, right at the center of the table, next to your holiday ham. Add some roasted vegetables on the side to balance things out.
Green Bean Casserole
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
This is one of those dishes that just belongs next to ham. The green bean casserole brings a savory, slightly earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of a brown sugar glaze.
The crispy fried onions on top add crunch. And the mushroom cream sauce ties everything together. Took me years to actually make it from scratch instead of using canned soup, but the difference is worth the effort.
How to Make It
Blanch fresh green beans in salted boiling water for about 5 minutes. Make a mushroom cream sauce with butter, sliced mushrooms, flour, and half-and-half. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic.
Combine the beans and sauce in a baking dish. Top with crispy French fried onions. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 to 35 minutes.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- Fresh green beans hold their shape much better than canned
- A splash of soy sauce in the mushroom sauce adds umami
- Shallots instead of onions in the sauce give it more complexity
Variations to Try
Add crispy bacon bits. Or swap the fried onions for toasted almond slivers if you want something lighter. You can also mix in ham and cheddar cheese to make it a main dish for busy weeknights.
How to Serve It with Ham
Place it right next to the ham on the buffet. This one gets eaten fast at holiday gatherings, so consider making a double batch.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
Sweet and salty. That’s the whole story here. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes paired with a honey baked ham creates a flavor combination that’s hard to beat.
This is one of the most popular Thanksgiving and Easter side dishes, and for good reason. If you’ve ever had honey baked ham with proper sides, you already know this casserole belongs on the table.
How to Make It
Bake sweet potatoes at 325 degrees F until soft, about an hour. Mash them with butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and a splash of evaporated milk.
Spread in a baking dish. Top with a pecan streusel made from chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- Cinnamon and nutmeg are non-negotiable here
- A pinch of ground cloves adds warmth without being overpowering
- Don’t skip the vanilla, it rounds everything out
Variations to Try
Top with marshmallows instead of pecans for the classic version. Or go savory with rosemary and goat cheese. Some people roast cubed candied yams with a honey glaze instead of making a casserole.
How to Serve It with Ham
This works best as part of a bigger spread. Put it next to some roasted vegetables and dinner rolls for a well-rounded holiday ham dinner menu.
Roasted Asparagus
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
After all that heavy, creamy stuff, you need something green and fresh on the plate. Roasted asparagus is that dish.
The slight bitterness and snap of asparagus cuts through the richness of ham. It’s light, it’s fast, and it makes the whole meal feel more balanced. Plus it looks great on a plate, which matters when you’re feeding a crowd at Easter or Christmas.
How to Make It
Trim the woody ends. Toss the spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast at 400 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes. They should be tender but still have some bite.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- Squeeze lemon juice over them right when they come out of the oven
- Shaved Parmesan on top is always a good call
- Garlic and red pepper flakes for a little heat
Variations to Try
Wrap each spear in prosciutto before roasting. Or top with a poached egg and hollandaise for brunch alongside ham. If you want to explore other ways to serve asparagus as the main focus, there are plenty of options.
How to Serve It with Ham
Arrange the spears on a platter alongside sliced ham. Simple presentation. No fuss. Let the flavors do the talking.
Glazed Carrots
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
Glazed carrots bring that sweet, buttery element that echoes the brown sugar or pineapple glaze on your ham. They’re one of the easiest seasonal vegetables to prepare and they look beautiful on the plate.
The caramelization from the glaze adds depth. Meanwhile, the natural earthiness of the carrots keeps things grounded. It’s a simple side that always gets finished first.
How to Make It
Peel and cut carrots into uniform pieces. Simmer them in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and a splash of water or orange juice until tender, about 15 minutes. Let the glaze reduce until it coats the carrots.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- Fresh thyme or rosemary adds an herby note
- Honey works as a substitute for brown sugar
- A tiny splash of balsamic vinegar at the end adds tang
Variations to Try
Try a harissa and honey glaze for something with heat. Or roast whole baby carrots with maple syrup and Dijon mustard. The bourbon-glazed version is fantastic for a Christmas ham dinner, if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Serve It with Ham
Pile them in a serving bowl and spoon extra glaze over the top. They sit beautifully next to mashed potatoes and a thick slice of spiral ham.
Creamed Spinach
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
Rich, velvety, and packed with flavor. Creamed spinach is one of those steakhouse-style sides that works just as well with ham.
The cream and garlic in this dish soften the sharp bite of spinach. And the saltiness of the ham makes every bite of spinach taste even better. It’s a classic pairing for a reason.
How to Make It
Saute garlic and onion in butter. Add fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in cream, a bit of cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the spinach, about 5 minutes.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- Fresh nutmeg makes a noticeable difference over pre-ground
- A squeeze of lemon brightens the whole dish
- Don’t overload on cream cheese, a couple tablespoons is enough
Variations to Try
Use frozen spinach if you’re short on time, just squeeze out the excess water first. You can also add artichoke hearts for a spinach-artichoke dip situation that doubles as a side dish.
How to Serve It with Ham
Spoon it next to glazed ham. It’s particularly good when you get some of the creamed spinach on the same forkful as the ham. Trust me on that one.
Corn Pudding
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
Corn pudding sits somewhere between creamed corn and a savory custard. The natural sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with smoky ham, and the texture is unlike any other side on the table.
It’s a Southern classic that shows up at holiday dinners constantly. And once you make it, you’ll understand why people keep coming back for seconds.
How to Make It
Mix together corn kernels (fresh or canned), eggs, milk, butter, a bit of sugar, and cornstarch. Season with salt and pepper. Some recipes add sharp cheddar for a savory twist.
Pour into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees F for 40 to 45 minutes until set and golden on top.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- Ground mustard and a dash of hot sauce make this uber-savory
- Fresh corn from the cob gives the best texture and flavor
- Garlic powder and a bit of cayenne add warmth
Variations to Try
Add diced jalapenos and pepper jack cheese for a spicy version. Or stir in crumbled bacon and chives. A cornbread-style variation with more structure works well for potlucks.
How to Serve It with Ham
Scoop it out in generous portions. It’s soft and custardy, so a deep serving spoon works best. Pairs well on a plate with green beans and a thick slab of baked ham.
Deviled Eggs
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
No holiday ham dinner feels complete without a tray of deviled eggs. The tangy, creamy filling is a perfect contrast to the rich, salty meat.
They work as both an appetizer and a side dish. And they’re always the first thing to disappear from the table. At least in my experience, you should make more than you think you need.
How to Make It
Hard boil eggs, peel, and slice in half. Scoop out the yolks. Mix yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, a splash of vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pipe or spoon the filling back into the whites.
Sprinkle with paprika. Done.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- A tiny bit of pickle relish adds a sweet tang that’s addictive
- Use Duke’s mayo if you can find it, it makes a difference
- Smoked paprika instead of regular paprika levels these up
Variations to Try
Try adding crumbled bacon on top. Or mix in some horseradish for a kick. For a completely different take, there are some great ideas for sides to serve alongside deviled eggs when they’re the star of the show.
How to Serve It with Ham
Arrange them on a platter and set out before the main course. They’re a perfect appetizer that gets people excited for the ham dinner to come. Or place them right on the dinner plate as a cold side.
Dinner Rolls
Why It Pairs Well with Ham
You need bread on the table. It’s that simple. Soft, buttery dinner rolls are the glue that holds a ham dinner together. They’re perfect for soaking up glaze, making mini ham sandwiches with leftovers, or just eating on their own with a smear of butter.
Every holiday ham meal benefits from some kind of bread, and homemade rolls are the best option by far.
How to Make It
Mix flour, yeast, sugar, salt, warm milk, an egg, and softened butter. Knead until smooth. Let the dough rise for about an hour, then shape into rolls.
Place in a greased baking pan, let rise again for 30 minutes. Bake at 375 degrees F for 15 to 18 minutes. Brush with melted butter right out of the oven.
Best Seasoning and Flavor Tips
- A touch of honey in the dough makes them slightly sweet
- Brush with garlic butter before baking for savory rolls
- Top with flaky sea salt for a nice finish
Variations to Try
Make pull-apart rolls stuffed with cheese. Or fold the dough over for an envelope-style roll that traps butter inside. You can also try Hawaiian sweet rolls, which pair particularly well with a pineapple ham glaze.
Leftover rolls work great the next day for ham and cheese sliders. Just split, stuff with leftover ham and Swiss, and bake until melty.
How to Serve It with Ham
Pile them in a basket lined with a cloth napkin. Set out some good butter alongside. Biscuits are also a solid choice if you want something even more Southern for your ham dinner menu.
FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With Ham
What is the best side dish to serve with ham?
Scalloped potatoes are the most popular choice. The creamy, cheesy layers balance the salty richness of a glazed ham perfectly. Mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese are close runners-up for any holiday dinner.
What vegetables go well with ham?
Roasted asparagus, glazed carrots, green beans, and Brussels sprouts all pair well. These roasted vegetables bring freshness and balance to the plate. Creamed spinach is another solid pick for a richer option.
What side dishes go with ham for Easter?
Classic Easter ham sides include scalloped potatoes, deviled eggs, sweet potato casserole, and dinner rolls. Add a green salad or roasted asparagus for something lighter. These are the standards at most holiday ham dinners.
What goes with ham for Christmas dinner?
Christmas ham pairs well with au gratin potatoes, glazed carrots, corn pudding, and cranberry sauce. Biscuits or homemade rolls round out the meal. Most families stick with comfort food sides for the holidays.
What is a good starch to serve with ham?
Scalloped potatoes, mashed potatoes, candied yams, rice pilaf, and macaroni and cheese all work. Potato dishes are the most traditional pairing. But a good cornbread also holds its own next to ham.
What salad goes best with ham?
A spinach salad with dried cranberries, pecans, and blue cheese is a great pick. The tart and nutty flavors contrast the smoky ham. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well too.
What side dish goes with honey baked ham?
Sweet potato casserole, creamed spinach, and cheesy potatoes are top choices. The sweetness of a honey baked ham pairs best with savory or slightly tangy sides. Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic also work great.
Can you serve pasta as a side with ham?
Yes. Macaroni and cheese is the most common pasta side for ham. A light orzo salad or rice pilaf also works if you want something less heavy. Keep the pasta dish simple so it doesn’t compete.
What bread goes with ham dinner?
Soft dinner rolls, buttermilk biscuits, and cornbread are the top choices. Hawaiian sweet rolls pair particularly well with a pineapple-glazed ham. Homemade bread always beats store-bought for a holiday meal.
What side dishes go with a spiral ham?
Spiral ham is salty, so creamy sides work best. Think mashed potatoes, creamed corn, or a sweet potato casserole. Add something fresh like a fruit salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the plate.
Conclusion
Figuring out what side dish goes with ham doesn’t have to be complicated. The best pairings come down to balance: something creamy, something green, something with a little sweetness.
Scalloped potatoes and green bean casserole handle the comfort food side of things. Glazed carrots and roasted asparagus bring color and freshness. Deviled eggs and corn pudding fill in the gaps.
The key is variety. Don’t load up on all heavy dishes. Mix a rich side like macaroni and cheese with a lighter option like a spinach salad or seasonal vegetables.
Whether you’re putting together an Easter spread, a Christmas ham dinner, or just a simple family meal on a Sunday, these sides work. Pick three or four, keep it simple, and let the ham be the star.
