Holiday Helpers: What Side Dish Goes with Honey Baked Ham?

There’s something undeniably special about a honey baked ham, isn’t there? The way its sweet, sticky glaze clings to every slice, the tender meat that practically melts in your mouth—it’s a showstopper at any table.

But let’s be honest, the real question isn’t just about the ham itself. It’s what side dish goes with honey baked ham that makes or breaks the meal.

Choosing the right accompaniments can elevate your ham to something extraordinary, turning a simple dinner into an unforgettable feast.

From the comfort of creamy scalloped potatoes to the refreshing crunch of a crisp Caesar salad, the right side dish can balance flavors, add texture, and make every bite more satisfying.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the perfect sides—casseroles, fresh salads, bakes, and more—that will transform your ham into a meal worth remembering.

What Side Dish Goes with Honey Baked Ham

Classic Potato-Based Sides

Scalloped Potatoes: The Golden Layers of Comfort

Imagine this: a bubbling, golden dish emerging from the oven, the thinly sliced potatoes tender beneath a creamy sauce, each layer infused with butter and hints of garlic. Scalloped potatoes are a classic, one of those dishes that bring warmth and nostalgia to the table. They’re not just a side; they’re a statement.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity—potatoes, cream, cheese, and a bit of patience. The top gets that perfect crispy edge while the inside stays rich and creamy. Pair this with honey baked ham, and you’ve got a combination that’s both hearty and elegant, balancing the sweetness of the ham with the savory depth of the potatoes.

Mashed Potatoes: The Pillowy Foundation

Now, if scalloped potatoes are the golden crown, then mashed potatoes are the sturdy foundation of a great meal. These are no ordinary mashed potatoes—think creamy, buttery, with just a hint of garlic or chive to elevate the flavor.

The trick? Use a mix of starchy and waxy potatoes. Russets for that fluffy texture, and Yukon Golds for a bit of richness. Don’t be shy with the butter and cream—these aren’t the days to count calories.

A good mashed potato should be smooth, but not overly whipped. You want that texture, that slight resistance when you dig in with your fork. Serve them alongside your honey baked ham, and you’ve got a plate that screams comfort.

Potato Salad: A Chilled Counterbalance

Let’s not forget potato salad, the cool cousin at the dinner party. Whether you go creamy with mayo and mustard or lean towards a tangy vinegar-based dressing, potato salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ham.

The secret here is in the balance. You need the right amount of crunch—think celery, pickles, maybe even some crisp bacon bits—and the right potatoes, usually something waxy like Red Bliss that holds its shape. This dish, chilled and zesty, cuts through the sweetness of the honey baked ham, offering a bite that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Roasted Potatoes: The Crispy, Caramelized Bite

If you’re aiming for something a bit more rustic, roasted potatoes are your go-to. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, they bring a satisfying crunch that complements the soft, juicy ham.

Here’s the trick: high heat and enough space on the baking sheet so they don’t steam. Toss them in olive oil, salt, pepper, maybe a bit of rosemary or thyme. Let the oven work its magic until the edges caramelize into a golden brown. Each bite is a perfect mix of crunchy and soft, making it the ideal partner for a slice of honey baked ham.

The beauty of potatoes is their versatility—they’re like a blank canvas that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these classic potato sides bring both comfort and flavor, holding their own against the sweet, savory notes of a honey baked ham.

Vegetable-Centric Side Dishes

Green Bean Casserole: The Unlikely Star

You might think green beans are too humble for the spotlight, but green bean casserole proves otherwise. Picture this: tender green beans, coated in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions that shatter with every bite. This dish has an almost magical ability to transform a simple vegetable into a comfort food icon.

It’s the kind of side that whispers nostalgia, reminding you of family gatherings where the table was as full as the hearts around it. The contrast between the soft beans and the crunchy onions is what makes it work so well alongside honey baked ham. The sweetness of the ham meets the earthiness of the mushrooms and the savoriness of the beans, creating a balance that just works.

Roasted Vegetables: Nature’s Candy

Roasting vegetables is like unlocking a secret level of flavor. Take something as simple as roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts—throw them in a hot oven with a little olive oil, maybe some garlic or rosemary, and what you get is pure magic. The heat brings out the natural sugars, turning each bite into a sweet, caramelized delight.

Roasted vegetables aren’t just a side dish; they’re nature’s candy. The crispy edges, the tender centers, the way the flavors concentrate as they roast—it’s almost alchemy. And when you’re thinking about what side dish goes with honey baked ham, these roasted gems are perfect. They complement the ham without competing, adding a depth of flavor that feels both rustic and refined.

Glazed Carrots: Sweet and Savory Harmony

Glazed carrots are one of those dishes that walk the line between sweet and savory with absolute confidence. They’re like the yin to honey baked ham’s yang. Cooked in butter and brown sugar, maybe with a hint of orange or ginger, these carrots become something special—each bite soft and rich, with a glaze that clings just enough to coat your tongue with sweetness.

Pairing them with ham creates this harmony on the plate, where the sweetness of the carrots plays off the honey glaze on the ham, and the natural savoriness of the meat keeps everything balanced. It’s a side dish that doesn’t just sit on the plate; it dances.

Brussels Sprouts: The Underdog Victory

Once maligned as the villain of the vegetable world, Brussels sprouts have had a serious glow-up in recent years. Roasted until their edges are crispy and caramelized, they become something entirely different from the mushy, boiled sprouts you might remember.

Tossed with a bit of balsamic vinegar or pancetta, they bring a pop of bold flavor that stands up to the richness of honey baked ham.

The bitterness of the sprouts, tempered by roasting, cuts through the fat of the ham, while their crispy texture adds a layer of complexity. It’s a pairing that feels sophisticated yet grounded, like a well-kept secret passed down through generations.

Asparagus: The Elegant Simplicity

There’s something about asparagus that just feels a little fancy, don’t you think? Whether it’s steamed, grilled, or roasted, asparagus adds a touch of elegance to any meal. The key is not to overcomplicate it—some olive oil, a sprinkle of sea salt, maybe a squeeze of lemon.

Its slightly grassy flavor and tender bite provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory notes of honey baked ham.

The beauty of asparagus lies in its simplicity, letting the natural flavor of the vegetable shine while still playing well with the more complex flavors on the plate.

Vegetables, when treated right, can do more than just play a supporting role. They can elevate a meal, bringing color, texture, and a burst of freshness that completes the experience. In the world of side dishes, they’re not just an afterthought—they’re the ones that make the main dish sing.

Grain and Pasta Sides

Macaroni and Cheese: The Creamy Classic

There’s something about macaroni and cheese that brings everyone back to their roots. It’s the ultimate comfort food—a dish that warms the soul as much as it fills the belly. Imagine this: elbow pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, each bite oozing with cheddar, perhaps with a hint of gruyere for that extra touch of sophistication.

The secret? It’s all in the sauce. Start with a roux, slow and steady, before adding your cheese blend. But don’t stop there—finish it off under the broiler for a few minutes to get that perfect golden crust. The contrast between the creamy interior and the crispy top is pure joy.

Now, pair that with honey baked ham, and you’ve got a match made in heaven. The creaminess of the mac and cheese cuts through the sweetness of the ham, offering a mouthful of balanced flavors that keep you coming back for more.

Cornbread: The Sweet and Savory Staple

Ah, cornbread. It’s simple, it’s sweet, it’s got that golden crumb that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving it straight from the skillet or in neat squares, it’s the kind of side that never fails to please. But it’s more than just a side—it’s an experience.

The beauty of cornbread lies in its versatility. Add a touch of honey or some sharp cheddar, maybe a few jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s the sweetness that plays so well with the savory notes of honey baked ham, and the slight crunch of cornmeal that adds texture to the meal.

And let’s be real, who doesn’t love crumbling a bit of cornbread over their plate, letting it soak up the ham’s juices? It’s the little things that make a meal memorable.

Stuffing: The Savory Companion

Stuffing isn’t just for the turkey. It’s the unsung hero of the dinner table, soaking up flavors and adding that savory, herbaceous note that rounds out any dish. Think about it: cubed bread, sautéed onions, and celery, all bound together with a rich broth and a mix of sage, thyme, and rosemary.

What makes stuffing so special is its adaptability. You can keep it classic, or you can get creative—add some sausage, maybe cranberries or pecans, to bring out different flavors. It’s that combination of textures—the crisp edges, the soft interior—that makes it the perfect side for honey baked ham.

When you ask yourself what side dish goes with honey baked ham, stuffing should always be in the conversation. Its hearty, savory nature complements the sweet, tender ham, creating a balance that’s as satisfying as it is comforting.

Wild Rice Pilaf: The Earthy, Nutty Note

For something a little more on the sophisticated side, there’s wild rice pilaf. It’s nutty, earthy, and just a bit chewy, offering a contrast to the softer textures on the plate. Cooked with a blend of aromatic herbs, perhaps a few sautéed mushrooms or toasted nuts, wild rice brings a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.

The beauty of wild rice is that it’s a bit unexpected. It doesn’t try to steal the show, but it holds its own, adding a layer of complexity to the meal. And when paired with honey baked ham, it provides a grounding element, a connection to the earthiness that balances the ham’s sweetness.

Plus, let’s not forget the visual appeal—those dark grains against the pink of the ham create a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate.

Grain and pasta sides like these aren’t just afterthoughts; they’re the foundation of a well-rounded meal. They bring texture, flavor, and a sense of satisfaction that elevates the entire dining experience.

Casseroles and Bakes

Sweet Potato Casserole: The Comforting Sweetness

Sweet potato casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a tradition. The kind that sits somewhere between a dessert and a side, with its buttery, mashed sweet potatoes underneath and that crunchy pecan topping that steals the show. There’s something irresistible about the way the sweet potatoes melt in your mouth, while the caramelized pecans add a bit of crunch—a perfect contrast of textures.

You might think it’s too sweet, but that’s where the magic lies. When paired with the savory notes of honey baked ham, the casserole’s sweetness plays like a symphony against the salty, succulent meat. It’s not just a side; it’s an experience, one that feels like a warm embrace on a cold holiday evening.

Green Bean Casserole: A Timeless Classic

The green bean casserole is that one dish that always manages to find its way to the holiday table, and for good reason. It’s simple yet flavorful, combining tender green beans with a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. But the real star? Those crispy fried onions on top, adding a satisfying crunch that takes every bite to the next level.

This casserole isn’t just filling; it’s comforting in a way that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. When you’re pondering what side dish goes with honey baked ham, the green bean casserole is an easy answer. The creamy, earthy notes of the dish complement the ham’s sweetness, creating a balance that just works.

Broccoli Casserole: The Veggie Delight

Then there’s broccoli casserole—the unsung hero of the casserole world. Broccoli gets a bad rap sometimes, but when it’s bathed in a cheesy, creamy sauce and baked until golden, it transforms into something magical. The florets become tender, almost melting into the sauce, while the top gets that irresistible golden crust.

It’s the kind of dish that surprises you, especially when paired with honey baked ham. The mild bitterness of the broccoli cuts through the sweetness of the ham, while the cheesy sauce adds a richness that ties it all together. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, the kind that makes you wonder why broccoli isn’t always the star of the show.

Cornbread Casserole: A Twist on Tradition

Cornbread casserole is where comfort food meets indulgence. Imagine cornbread, but with a twist—rich, moist, almost like a pudding, with a slightly sweet flavor that dances between savory and sweet. It’s the kind of dish that sits perfectly on the plate, soaking up the juices from the honey baked ham, while holding its own with its hearty, almost creamy texture.

The beauty of cornbread casserole lies in its versatility. You can add bits of corn, a touch of honey, or even some jalapeños if you’re feeling bold. It’s that slight sweetness that pairs so well with the salty ham, creating a contrast that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Casseroles and bakes are the unsung heroes of the dinner table—hearty, flavorful, and always ready to feed a crowd. They don’t just accompany the main dish; they elevate it, bringing a depth of flavor and comfort that turns any meal into a feast.

Fresh Salads and Slaws

Coleslaw: The Crisp Counterpoint

Coleslaw—it’s that cool, crunchy bite that sneaks its way onto every plate. There’s something about the way the crisp cabbage mingles with the tangy dressing, a dance of textures and flavors that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you go for a creamy mayo-based slaw or a lighter vinegar version, it’s the kind of side that brings balance to the richness of honey baked ham.

Think about it: the fatty, savory ham meets the bright acidity of the coleslaw, and suddenly, everything makes sense. It’s that contrast, that push and pull of flavors, that makes coleslaw more than just a side—it’s a necessity.

Caesar Salad: A Bold Bite

Then there’s Caesar salad—not your typical side, but oh, does it work. Crisp romaine leaves, crunchy croutons, and that bold, garlicky dressing that clings to each bite. The Parmesan shavings add a salty note, while a squeeze of lemon brightens everything up.

The beauty of a Caesar salad lies in its simplicity, yet it’s anything but boring. The sharpness of the dressing cuts through the sweetness of the ham, while the crunch of the croutons adds a textural contrast that keeps things interesting. When you’re thinking about what side dish goes with honey baked ham, don’t overlook the Caesar salad. It’s a surprising but perfect companion.

Apple Slaw: A Sweet and Tangy Twist

Apple slaw—now this is where things get interesting. Imagine the crispness of apples mixed with shredded cabbage, maybe a hint of carrot for color, all tossed in a light, tangy dressing. It’s like coleslaw’s brighter, sweeter cousin, bringing a touch of fruitiness to the plate.

The sweetness of the apples plays off the savory notes of the ham, while the tangy dressing adds that bit of acidity that cuts through the richness. It’s a side that feels light, refreshing, and just a little unexpected. And isn’t that what makes a meal memorable? A bite of ham, a forkful of apple slaw, and suddenly, you’ve got something that’s both comforting and exciting.

Mixed Green Salad: The Fresh and Simple Approach

Finally, there’s the mixed green salad. Simple, fresh, and endlessly adaptable. Start with a base of fresh greens—baby spinach, arugula, maybe some peppery watercress—then add whatever your heart desires. A handful of cherry tomatoes, some thinly sliced red onion, a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for crunch.

The dressing? Keep it simple. A good olive oil, a splash of vinegar, maybe a touch of honey or Dijon for balance. The beauty of a mixed green salad is that it doesn’t try to compete with the main dish—it complements it. The fresh greens provide a refreshing bite between the rich, savory ham, cleansing the palate and preparing you for the next delicious forkful.

Fresh salads and slaws aren’t just there to fill space on the plate; they bring a brightness, a crunch, a contrast that elevates the whole meal. They’re the supporting actors that make the star shine even brighter.

Bread and Rolls

Dinner Rolls: The Pillowy Essential

Dinner rolls—soft, buttery, and just the right amount of chewy. They’re the unsung heroes of the dinner table, the ones that quietly soak up all the juices, the gravies, the flavors that you just can’t let go to waste.

Fresh out of the oven, their golden tops glistening with a brush of melted butter, they’re impossible to resist. You pull one apart, and the steam escapes, carrying that unmistakable smell of fresh-baked bread.

These rolls are more than just bread; they’re a vessel. A vessel for that last bite of honey baked ham, a sponge for that sweet glaze left on the plate. When you’re wondering what side dish goes with honey baked ham, don’t forget the simple joy of a good dinner roll. It’s the quiet cornerstone of a well-rounded meal.

Cornbread: The Rustic Charm

Cornbread brings a touch of rustic comfort to the table, with its crumbly, slightly sweet texture. It’s that side that doesn’t try to be anything other than what it is—a simple, straightforward pleasure. Whether you make it in a cast-iron skillet for those crispy edges or bake it in a pan for a more uniform slice, cornbread has a way of grounding the meal, giving it a down-home feel.

And let’s not forget the flavor. The sweetness of the cornmeal plays off the savory ham, while the crumbly texture contrasts with the meat’s tenderness. You might add a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter, but really, cornbread is perfect just as it is. It’s that side dish that makes you feel like you’re home, no matter where you are.

Biscuits: The Flaky Indulgence

Biscuits—oh, where do I start? Flaky, buttery, and just the right amount of indulgent, biscuits are the kind of bread that demands attention. They’re not shy; they don’t sit quietly on the side of the plate. No, they take center stage, ready to be split open and slathered with butter or maybe a spoonful of jam.

The key to a good biscuit? Cold butter and a light touch. You want those layers, that perfect rise, that golden crust. And when you pair a biscuit with honey baked ham, it’s like a match made in culinary heaven. The biscuit’s buttery, flaky texture complements the ham’s sweetness, creating a bite that’s rich, satisfying, and utterly memorable.

Garlic Bread: The Bold Choice

Then there’s garlic bread—a bold choice, perhaps, but one that can’t be overlooked. Thick slices of bread, brushed with a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs, then toasted until golden and crispy. The smell alone is enough to make your mouth water.

Garlic bread brings a different kind of energy to the table. It’s not subtle; it’s in your face with flavor.

The garlic’s sharpness, the butter’s richness, the crunch of the toasted bread—it all comes together in a way that both contrasts and complements the sweetness of honey baked ham. It’s a side that stands up to the ham, rather than just sitting alongside it, making every bite a little more interesting.

Bread and rolls—they’re more than just a side; they’re the glue that holds the meal together. Whether it’s the pillowy softness of a dinner roll, the rustic charm of cornbread, the flaky indulgence of a biscuit, or the bold flavor of garlic bread, each brings something special to the table. Each has its role, its purpose, in creating a meal that’s not just about eating, but about savoring.

Light and Tangy Condiments

Cranberry Sauce: The Tart Symphony

Cranberry sauce—it’s the zinger on the plate, the pop of tartness that cuts through the richness like a sharp knife through butter. I’m not talking about that jiggly, can-shaped stuff. No, I mean the real deal, simmered on the stove with a touch of orange zest and a sprinkle of sugar, just enough to take the edge off the berries’ natural tang.

There’s a kind of alchemy in the way cranberry sauce interacts with honey baked ham. The sweetness of the ham meets the tartness of the cranberries, and suddenly, you’ve got a symphony of flavors dancing on your tongue. It’s that unexpected note that makes everything else taste better, sharper, more alive.

Mustard: The Bold Accent

Then there’s mustard—bold, tangy, unapologetically in-your-face. Whether you go for a smooth Dijon or a grainy old-style, mustard brings that sharp, vinegary kick that ham craves. It’s like the two were made for each other. The way the mustard’s bite plays off the sweet, honeyed glaze of the ham is something you have to taste to believe.

A smear of mustard on a slice of ham, maybe tucked into a soft roll or biscuit, is pure perfection. It’s that bite that wakes up your palate, keeps you coming back for more, making you wonder if mustard should be the main event rather than just a condiment.

Pickles: The Crunchy Counterpoint

Pickles—not just any pickles, but the kind that snap when you bite into them, releasing a burst of briny, vinegary goodness. They’re the secret weapon on the plate, the crunchy, tangy counterpoint to the softness of the ham. You wouldn’t think it, but a good pickle can elevate the entire meal.

The acidity of the pickle cuts through the richness, refreshing your taste buds with each bite. Whether you prefer dill, bread-and-butter, or something spicier, pickles add that necessary crunch, that unexpected zing that keeps the flavors balanced and bright.

Relish: The Sweet-Tart Surprise

And then there’s relish—the sweet-tart cousin of pickles, chopped up fine and mixed with a little sugar, a little vinegar, maybe some onions or peppers for extra kick. Relish isn’t just a topping; it’s a revelation. A spoonful on the side of your plate, ready to be paired with each forkful of ham, adds layers of flavor that might just surprise you.

Relish brings a sweetness that complements the honey baked ham, but with a vinegary bite that keeps it from being too much. It’s that contrast, that sweet meeting sour, that makes the dish sing.

Light and tangy condiments—they’re the unsung heroes of the meal, the small but mighty additions that bring everything together. Without them, the meal might be good, but with them, it becomes unforgettable.

Desserts to Complement Ham

Apple Pie: The Warm Embrace

Apple pie—there’s something about it that just feels right, like a warm embrace after a long day. The flaky, buttery crust encasing that tender, spiced filling, where the apples have softened just enough to release their sweetness without losing their bite. It’s classic, sure, but sometimes classic is exactly what you need.

When you’re savoring the last bites of honey baked ham, the richness still lingering on your palate, that first forkful of apple pie offers a kind of gentle closure. The sweetness of the apples, maybe with a hint of cinnamon, plays beautifully against the savory notes of the ham. It’s like the final note in a well-composed symphony—everything comes together in harmony.

Pecan Pie: The Decadent Finale

Then there’s pecan pie—rich, sticky, and undeniably indulgent. It’s the kind of dessert that demands your attention, with its dense, sweet filling and that crunchy layer of toasted pecans on top. Each bite is a mix of textures: the snap of the nuts, the gooey center, the crispness of the crust.

Pecan pie might seem like a bold choice after something as flavorful as honey baked ham, but it works. The deep, caramel-like sweetness of the pie contrasts with the ham’s salty, savory profile, creating a balance that’s nothing short of decadent. It’s the kind of dessert that leaves you fully satisfied, like you’ve truly treated yourself.

Lemon Tart: The Zesty Balance

If you’re looking for something that cuts through the richness, lemon tart is the way to go. It’s bright, zesty, with that perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that wakes up your taste buds. The buttery shortcrust base holds everything together, while the smooth lemon filling brings a refreshing end to the meal.

Lemon tart offers a different kind of satisfaction—a cleansing, almost palate-resetting effect after the richness of ham. It’s that zesty bite that clears the way for another round of flavors, ensuring you don’t leave the table feeling weighed down. It’s the perfect answer to what side dish goes with honey baked ham when you consider the whole meal experience, from start to sweet finish.

Chocolate Cake: The Rich Reward

And then there’s chocolate cake—dark, dense, and utterly indulgent. There’s something about a well-made chocolate cake that feels like a reward, a decadent treat that you savor slowly. The rich, deep cocoa flavor, the moist crumb, perhaps layered with a smooth ganache—it’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and just enjoy the moment.

Chocolate might seem like a heavy follow-up to honey baked ham, but when done right, it’s a match made in heaven. The bitterness of the chocolate contrasts with the ham’s sweetness, while the richness of the cake satisfies that craving for something substantial to round out the meal.

Desserts like these don’t just end the meal; they elevate it, taking the flavors of the main course and playing off them in new and delightful ways. Each bite brings something different to the table, making sure that the last taste is as memorable as the first.

FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With Honey Baked Ham

What side dishes pair best with honey baked ham?

The perfect side dishes complement the sweetness of honey baked ham with a mix of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors. Think scalloped potatoes with their creamy layers, a green bean casserole for a touch of tradition, or cranberry sauce to add a tart, refreshing contrast.

Should I serve something sweet or savory with honey baked ham?

Both sweet and savory sides work beautifully. A sweet potato casserole brings out the ham’s natural sweetness, while something savory like garlic bread or mustard offers a bold contrast. Balancing both elements on the plate creates a more dynamic and satisfying meal.

What vegetable side dishes go well with honey baked ham?

Vegetable sides are a must. Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a bitter contrast, green bean casserole adds creaminess, and glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness. Each vegetable side can enhance the ham’s flavors and provide balance with their freshness and texture.

Can I serve a salad with honey baked ham?

Absolutely. A crisp Caesar salad with its garlicky dressing or a tangy apple slaw provides a refreshing break from the richness of the ham. The lightness of the salad helps balance the heavier, sweeter notes of the ham, adding brightness to the meal.

What kind of bread or rolls should I serve with honey baked ham?

Go for dinner rolls that are soft and buttery, perfect for soaking up the juices. Cornbread brings a sweet, rustic charm, while biscuits offer a flaky, indulgent option. Each type of bread or roll pairs seamlessly with the savory-sweet nature of the ham.

Are there any pasta dishes that pair well with honey baked ham?

Yes, macaroni and cheese is a classic choice. The creamy, cheesy pasta contrasts with the ham’s sweetness, creating a comforting, rich combination. Another option is a wild rice pilaf, offering an earthy flavor that complements the ham’s glaze.

Should I serve a sauce with honey baked ham?

Serving a sauce like cranberry sauce or a sharp mustard is ideal. Cranberry sauce adds a tart, fruity note that contrasts with the ham’s sweetness, while mustard brings a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the savory aspect of the meat.

What dessert goes well after serving honey baked ham?

A lemon tart offers a zesty finish that cleanses the palate after a rich meal. For something more indulgent, pecan pie or chocolate cake pairs wonderfully, balancing the meal with their deep, sweet flavors and satisfying textures.

Can I serve honey baked ham with a casserole?

Definitely. Sweet potato casserole and broccoli casserole are both excellent choices. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the ham, while the cheesy richness of broccoli casserole adds a savory depth, making the meal more rounded and fulfilling.

What side dish can I make ahead of time to serve with honey baked ham?

Scalloped potatoes and green bean casserole are both great make-ahead options. They hold up well when prepared in advance and can be reheated without losing flavor or texture, making them convenient and delicious side dishes for any ham-based meal.

Conclusion

When it comes to what side dish goes with honey baked ham, the possibilities are endless, but the right choices can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.

The sweet and savory balance of honey baked ham demands accompaniments that both complement and contrast its rich flavors.

Think creamy scalloped potatoes that melt in your mouth, crisp green bean casserole that adds texture, and cranberry sauce that brings a tart punch.

Dinner rolls or cornbread are the perfect partners for soaking up those delicious juices, while apple slaw or a Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch to the plate. Even the desserts—whether a zesty lemon tart or a decadent pecan pie—play a role in crafting a harmonious dining experience.

By thoughtfully selecting sides that enhance the ham’s unique flavor profile, you create a meal that’s as memorable as it is satisfying.