We all know that baked ham is a staple at family gatherings, right? It’s the shiny centerpiece we all look forward to. But let’s be real—what do we pair with this meaty marvel?
We’ve all had those moments staring at a platter, wondering what to serve alongside that glorious slice of ham. Sometimes, the sides steal the show.
Let’s chat about some tasty accompaniments that complement that sweet and savory glaze. From classic options to some quirky pairings, we’ve got ideas to keep your plate vibrant and tasty.
Time to find the perfect side dishes that’ll make everyone come back for seconds!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Baked Ham
Here are our top 13 picks for the best side dishes to serve with baked ham:
1 – Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, rich, and cheesy, they’re like a warm hug on a plate. We layer thinly sliced potatoes with a velvety cheese sauce, and bake until golden and bubbly.
These potatoes give off a savory smell that fills the room, making everything feel cozier. They have a wonderful balance of creamy texture and a slight crunch on top, providing a delightful contrast. They shine next to baked ham!
2 – Glazed Carrots
Glazed carrots are like that friend who always brightens the party.
Sweet, tender, and slightly caramelized, they’re a delightful sidekick to baked ham. We love how the simple addition of brown sugar and butter brings out a rich, almost indulgent flavour.
These carrots retain a slight crunch while having that glossy finish we can’t resist.
When compared to other sides, they add a vibrant pop of colour and sweetness, creating a fantastic balance against savory ham.
3 – Apple Walnut Salad
We love apple walnut salad for its crunch and freshness. The sweet and tart apples bring vibrant flavors that brighten up any plate.
Walnuts add a buttery texture and a nutty kick. Toss in a light dressing for a zesty finish. This salad pairs beautifully with baked ham, offering a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing flavor!
4 – Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Cheesy broccoli casserole is that comfort food we can never resist. It’s creamy, velvety, and loaded with cheese.
The broccoli gives a nice bite which pairs perfectly with the sauce’s richness.
Each spoonful combines crunchy top layer with soft veggies beneath. It’s not just a side, it can steal the show. Its cheesy flavor elevates baked ham, creating a brunch-worthy combo that we keep coming back to.
Whether it’s the main event or a humble side, we love it.
5 – Maple Roasted Butternut Squash
Maple roasted butternut squash is a cozy side with a sweet twist. It’s roasted to bring out a caramelized flavour that’s simply irresistible. The maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory ham.
This dish stands out with a tender texture that contrasts nicely with the occasional crispy edges. We love how its warm, earthy notes balance against the classic ham glaze, making each bite a treat.
6 – Garlic Green Beans
Garlic green beans are a fantastic way to add some zing to our plates. They deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Tossed in garlic and a sprinkle of salt, their natural sweetness shines through.
We love how the garlic brings a savory depth that complements baked ham perfectly. Unlike mushy greens, these beans keep their texture and freshness. They’re the ideal side dish for a vibrant and flavorful experience.
7 – Cranberry Pecan Wild Rice
Cranberry pecan wild rice is like a party on a plate. The nuttiness of pecans blends perfectly with the tartness of cranberries.
We appreciate how the chewy wild rice gives a nice texture contrast. The sweetness from the cranberries pops, balancing the nuttiness beautifully. This dish brightens up any meal. It’s a fantastic side that pairs wonderfully with savory mains like baked ham. Each bite adds a burst of flavor that keeps us coming back for more.
8 – Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is pure comfort on a plate. It’s rich and velvety with a cheesy goodness that makes it irresistible. The spinach is tender, soaking up all the creamy details.
We love that slight tang from the parmesan mixed with a hint of garlic. It’s the perfect side to complement the sweetness of ham. No need for complex flavors—just straight-up tasty! This dish always brings a smile to our faces at dinner.
9 – Sweet Potato Soufflé
Sweet potato soufflé is a true comfort dish. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it an instant favorite.
We love how the marshmallow topping gives a touch of dessert-like indulgence. With hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, it creates a warm, cozy vibe that pairs well with savory ham.
This dish adds a sweeter note compared to other sides, balancing the plate beautifully. The fluffy soufflé is light yet satisfying—perfect for any gathering.
10 – Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower is a simple side that surprises us every time. It’s nutty, slightly sweet, and has those crispy edges we can’t resist.
Cooking it at high heat brings out its best flavors. It pairs beautifully with baked ham, creating a nice contrast. We appreciate that it’s super easy to whip up—just toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The charred bits add a wonderful crunch that makes every bite satisfying.
11 – Honey Dijon Brussels Sprouts
Honey Dijon Brussels sprouts are the perfect side with a sweet and tangy kick. We roast them to get that crispy texture and balanced flavour. The honey brings a gentle sweetness, while the Dijon mustard adds a little zing.
They stand out with a fantastic contrast to rich baked ham. These sprouts liven up the plate and make veggies feel exciting! Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, leaving us feeling pretty accomplished.
12 – Corn Pudding
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/1091271-easy-corn-pudding-Molly-1x1-1-a1d0bc6d2a59409fa4ae8ef61c0edb9b.jpg)
Corn pudding is our ultimate comfort side. It’s sweet, creamy, and has that fabulous corny goodness. The texture is smooth, with a touch of fluffiness that makes it addictive.
This dish pairs well with baked ham, offering a lovely balance of savoury and sweet. The burst of corn flavour really stands out, unlike other sides that can feel heavier. It completes our meal beautifully without overwhelming our plates.
13 – Fluffy Biscuits
Last but not least, fluffy biscuits are the ultimate warm hug on our plates. They’re soft and buttery with a slight crunch on the outside. The perfect vessel for soaking up any delicious sauces or gravies from our baked ham.
We love how they add a bit of carb heaven to our meal. They’re also super versatile—add some cheese or herbs for extra flavor, or even make mini sandwiches with leftover ham! Either way, these biscuits are always a hit at any gathering.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.