When serving ham for dinner, complementing it with the right side dishes can make all the difference. Try creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful texture contrast, or honey-glazed carrots that add a burst of sweetness and color. Green bean casserole is always a family favorite with its varied textures and flavors. Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crispy, savory option, while scalloped potatoes bring comforting richness to the table. Additionally, consider coleslaw, dinner rolls, asparagus spears, and deviled eggs to round out your meal. These sides not only enhance the flavors but also provide a visually appealing and satisfying dinner experience. Discover more combinations that will make your ham dinner unforgettable.
Mashed Potatoes
Complementing the savory flavors of ham, mashed potatoes serve as a classic and comforting side dish. Their creamy texture and perfect seasoning make them an ideal partner for ham.
Achieving the right balance of butter, cream, and salt is essential for creating that smooth, rich taste everyone loves. This well-seasoned dish offers a delightful contrast to the robust flavors of the ham.
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Honey-glazed carrots bring a delightful sweetness and vibrant color to the plate, making them an excellent side dish for ham.
Rich in carrot nutrition, they provide essential vitamins and minerals vital for health.
The honey benefits add a natural sweetness and a touch of warmth, elevating the flavor profile.
This combination makes for a visually appealing and nutritious accompaniment to your meal.
Green Bean Casserole
Another classic and comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with ham is the green bean casserole. For perfect results, follow these cooking tips:
- Use fresh or blanched green beans for vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Variations recipes include adding mushrooms, bacon, or cheese for extra flavor.
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, making it a delightful addition to your dinner table.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a deliciously crispy yet tender side dish that pairs perfectly with ham.
Setting the oven temperature to 400°F guarantees ideal caramelization.
Seasoning variations like garlic, balsamic vinegar, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can elevate their flavor.
This combination creates a harmonious balance of textures and tastes, making your meal both satisfying and nutritious.
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes, with their rich and creamy texture, provide a comforting and indulgent accompaniment to ham.
This dish can be elevated by using a variety of cheese varieties, such as cheddar or Gruyère, which add depth of flavor.
Herb infusions like fresh thyme or rosemary can further enhance the dish, making it a delightful complement to your main course.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole, with its blend of sweet and savory elements, serves as a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs exceptionally well with ham.
The pecan topping adds a delightful crunch, while the marshmallow layer provides a gooey sweetness.
This combination of textures and flavors creates a comforting and satisfying complement, enhancing the overall dining experience and making it a crowd-pleaser.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce, with its tart and tangy flavor, provides a vibrant contrast to the rich, savory taste of ham. This classic side dish, often celebrated in holiday traditions, adds a pop of color and a tart contrast that enhances the meal's overall appeal.
Its bright, invigorating taste balances the richness of ham, making it a beloved accompaniment for festive dinners.
Garlic Bread
Another excellent side dish for ham is garlic bread, which adds a savory and aromatic element to the meal. With various bread varieties available, from French baguettes to ciabatta, there's plenty of room for personalization.
Spread a generous layer of garlic butter on your chosen bread, then toast it to golden perfection. This delightful accompaniment will surely enhance your dinner experience.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach offers a rich and velvety contrast to the savory flavors of ham, making it an ideal side dish for an elegant meal.
With its creamy texture, this dish delivers a comforting mouthfeel while providing nutritional benefits from the spinach, such as iron and vitamins.
Easy to prepare, creamed spinach adds both sophistication and wholesome goodness to your dinner plate.
Caesar Salad
While the richness of creamed spinach complements ham beautifully, a Caesar salad offers a crisp and revitalizing contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
The combination of fresh Romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and the tangy Caesar dressing creates a rejuvenating balance. This classic salad not only adds texture but also brings a delightful zest, making it an excellent side dish for ham.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Baked macaroni and cheese, with its creamy texture and rich flavors, stands as a comforting and indulgent accompaniment to ham.
Combining different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory ham.
A crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a harmonious blend of creamy and crunchy, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Coleslaw
An exhilarating side dish for ham, coleslaw offers a crisp, tangy contrast that balances the rich flavors of the meat.
With numerous coleslaw variations available, you can choose from creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw dressing to suit your preference.
Whether you prefer classic cabbage or a mix of colorful vegetables, coleslaw's invigorating crunch makes it an ideal partner for your ham dinner.
Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls provide a warm, fluffy accompaniment that complements the savory richness of ham.
For the best results, consider various butter options, such as herb-infused or honey butter, to add extra flavor.
Key baking tips include allowing the dough to rise properly and baking until golden brown.
These rolls can be a delightful addition to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Asparagus Spears
Roasted asparagus spears offer a rejuvenating contrast to the savory flavors of ham, making them an excellent side dish choice.
Grilled asparagus adds a delightful invigorating touch, while an asparagus salad can be a revitalizing and crunchy complement.
These options not only enhance the meal's nutritional value but also bring a burst of color and texture to your dinner table.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Ham and Cheese Sliders?
When serving ham and cheese sliders, some of the best side dishes for sliders could include a fresh green salad, crispy french fries, or a bowl of homemade coleslaw. The savory flavors of the sliders are complemented well by these classic side dishes.
Deviled Eggs
Complementing the fresh and vibrant asparagus, deviled eggs provide a creamy and tangy side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. This classic preparation involves mixing egg yolks with mustard and mayonnaise, creating a smooth filling.
Unique variations can include adding avocado or bacon bits, offering delightful twists. Deviled eggs are easy to make and always a crowd pleaser at any gathering.