Jackson Reed
When planning a ham dinner, selecting the right side dishes is key to enhancing the meal’s overall flavor and balance. Classic pairings often include creamy scalloped potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes, which complement the ham’s salty richness. Steamed or sautéed green vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add freshness and color, while a hearty dish like macaroni and cheese or cornbread provides comfort and texture. For a lighter option, a crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a bowl of buttery mashed potatoes can round out the meal. Desserts such as apple pie or a simple fruit salad often serve as a refreshing finale, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
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What You'll Learn
- Side Dishes: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green beans, sweet potatoes, cornbread
- Salads: Mixed greens, potato salad, coleslaw, fruit salad, spinach salad
- Breads: Dinner rolls, biscuits, garlic bread, cornbread, sourdough
- Sauces: Honey mustard, apple glaze, gravy, cranberry sauce, Dijon sauce
- Desserts: Apple pie, chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, cookies
Side Dishes: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green beans, sweet potatoes, cornbread
Roasted vegetables are a versatile and vibrant companion to ham, offering a contrast in texture and flavor that elevates the entire meal. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven, their natural sugars enhancing the savory richness of the ham. For optimal results, toss them in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary or thyme, then roast at 425°F for 25–30 minutes. This method ensures a crispy exterior and tender interior, creating a dish that’s both comforting and visually appealing.
Mashed potatoes, a classic side, provide a creamy, indulgent counterpoint to the ham’s salty profile. To make them stand out, use Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery texture, and incorporate warm milk, a knob of butter, and a touch of garlic or chives for depth. For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with chicken broth or Greek yogurt. Serve them piping hot, and consider adding a drizzle of gravy or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor that complements the ham’s smokiness.
Green beans, whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, bring freshness and crunch to the table. Blanching them briefly in salted water preserves their vibrant color, while a quick sauté with slivered almonds and garlic adds texture and nuttiness. For a richer option, toss them in a skillet with caramelized onions and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This preparation not only balances the ham’s heaviness but also ensures a well-rounded plate that appeals to both texture and taste preferences.
Sweet potatoes, with their natural sweetness, pair beautifully with ham, especially when prepared with a hint of spice or warmth. Roast them with a glaze of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon, or mash them with a dollop of orange zest for a citrusy twist. Their earthy flavor and soft texture create a harmonious contrast to the ham’s saltiness, making them a crowd-pleasing addition. For a crispy variation, cut them into wedges, toss with smoked paprika, and bake until golden.
Cornbread rounds out the meal with its crumbly texture and subtle sweetness, acting as a perfect vehicle for soaking up ham juices or accompanying a side of beans. To enhance its flavor, add shredded cheddar or jalapeños to the batter for a Southern-inspired twist. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey, ensuring it complements rather than competes with the ham. Its versatility makes it a staple for both casual and festive ham dinners.
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Salads: Mixed greens, potato salad, coleslaw, fruit salad, spinach salad
Salads are a versatile and refreshing complement to a ham dinner, offering a balance of textures and flavors that enhance the richness of the main dish. Among the options, mixed greens stand out as a simple yet elegant choice. A bed of arugula, baby spinach, and frisée, lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon, provides a crisp contrast to the savory ham. For added depth, sprinkle in toasted nuts or crumbled cheese—walnuts and goat cheese pair particularly well. This salad is best served immediately to maintain its freshness, making it ideal for intimate gatherings where timing is less pressured.
Potato salad brings a hearty, comforting element to the table, especially when prepared with a tangy mustard vinaigrette instead of the traditional mayonnaise-based dressing. Boil Yukon Gold potatoes until fork-tender, then toss them with diced red onion, celery, and fresh dill. A splash of apple cider vinegar brightens the flavors, while a pinch of smoked paprika ties it back to the ham’s smoky notes. Serve this salad chilled, but allow it to come to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften the flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser for potlucks or larger family dinners.
Coleslaw offers a crunchy, vibrant counterpoint to ham’s tenderness, especially when made with a lighter dressing. Shred green and red cabbage, then combine with julienned carrots and thinly sliced green apples. Whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey for a dressing that’s creamy without being heavy. Let the slaw sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, but avoid making it more than 4 hours in advance to prevent sogginess. This version is particularly refreshing during warmer months or when the ham is served with heavier sides like macaroni and cheese.
For a sweet and unexpected twist, fruit salad can be a delightful pairing, especially with baked or glazed ham. Combine diced pineapple, strawberries, and mandarin oranges, then dress lightly with a mixture of orange juice and mint. The acidity and natural sugars in the fruit cut through the ham’s richness, while the mint adds a refreshing finish. Avoid adding bananas or pears, as they brown quickly and disrupt the salad’s visual appeal. Serve this immediately after assembling, making it a last-minute addition to the meal.
Spinach salad is a nutrient-dense option that pairs well with ham, especially when topped with warm elements. Start with a base of fresh spinach, then add sliced mushrooms, red onion, and crumbled bacon. For the dressing, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Just before serving, toss the salad and top with a few tablespoons of hot, crispy bacon bits to slightly wilt the spinach—this creates a satisfying contrast between warm and cool components. This salad is best suited for smaller groups, as the warm toppings should be added just before serving to maintain their texture.
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Breads: Dinner rolls, biscuits, garlic bread, cornbread, sourdough
Breads are the unsung heroes of a ham dinner, transforming a simple meal into a feast of textures and flavors. Among the myriad options, dinner rolls, biscuits, garlic bread, cornbread, and sourdough each bring their unique charm to the table. Dinner rolls, with their soft, buttery interior, are perfect for soaking up gravy or cradling a slice of ham. Biscuits, flakier and often taller, offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the ham’s tenderness. Garlic bread, infused with aromatic herbs and toasted to perfection, adds a bold, savory kick. Cornbread, slightly sweet and crumbly, pairs well with glazed or honey-baked ham, balancing richness with its rustic simplicity. Sourdough, tangy and chewy, provides a complex flavor profile that complements smoked or spiced ham varieties. Together, these breads create a symphony of tastes and textures, ensuring every bite of your ham dinner is a delight.
When selecting breads for your ham dinner, consider the ham’s preparation style to create harmony on the plate. For instance, a honey-glazed ham pairs exquisitely with cornbread, as the bread’s subtle sweetness mirrors the ham’s glaze without overwhelming it. Conversely, a smoked ham benefits from the tanginess of sourdough, which cuts through the meat’s richness. Garlic bread is a versatile choice, especially for herb-crusted hams, as its garlic and butter base enhances the dish’s aromatic qualities. Dinner rolls and biscuits are ideal for traditional, bone-in hams, offering a classic, comforting accompaniment. To elevate your presentation, serve a variety of breads in a woven basket lined with a linen cloth, allowing guests to mix and match according to their preferences.
The art of pairing breads with ham extends beyond flavor—it’s about creating a balanced meal. Dinner rolls and biscuits, being lighter, are excellent for those who prefer a simpler side. Garlic bread and cornbread, richer in flavor and texture, cater to those seeking a heartier experience. Sourdough, with its dense crumb, is perfect for those who appreciate a chewier, more robust bread. For a family-style dinner, consider offering two to three bread options to accommodate diverse tastes. Pro tip: Warm your breads slightly before serving—this enhances their aroma and texture, making them even more irresistible.
While breads are a natural fit for ham dinners, there’s a fine line between enhancing the meal and overshadowing the star of the show. Avoid overly seasoned or heavily topped breads that might compete with the ham’s flavor. For example, a heavily herbed garlic bread could overpower a delicately spiced ham. Instead, opt for moderation—a light brushing of garlic butter on a baguette or a sprinkle of sea salt on sourdough can elevate without overwhelming. Similarly, if your ham is already glazed or sauced, choose a neutral bread like dinner rolls to let the ham shine. The goal is to complement, not compete, ensuring every element on the plate works in harmony.
Incorporating breads into your ham dinner is not just about taste—it’s about creating a memorable dining experience. Imagine a table spread with a glazed ham, a basket of warm biscuits, and a platter of golden cornbread. The visual appeal alone is inviting, but the interplay of flavors and textures takes the meal to the next level. For a modern twist, serve mini sourdough loaves or garlic bread knots, perfect for individual portions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, breads like dinner rolls, biscuits, garlic bread, cornbread, and sourdough are the secret to turning a good ham dinner into a great one.
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Sauces: Honey mustard, apple glaze, gravy, cranberry sauce, Dijon sauce
Ham, a versatile centerpiece for any dinner, pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces that elevate its flavor profile. Among the most popular are honey mustard, apple glaze, gravy, cranberry sauce, and Dijon sauce. Each brings a distinct character to the table, transforming the ham into a dish that can range from sweet and tangy to rich and savory.
Honey mustard strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sharp, making it an ideal companion for ham. To prepare, combine equal parts honey and Dijon mustard, then add a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. This sauce works exceptionally well with baked ham, especially when brushed on during the last 15 minutes of cooking to create a glossy, caramelized crust. For a thicker consistency, reduce the mixture over low heat until it coats the back of a spoon. Serve it as a dipping sauce for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Apple glaze leans into the natural affinity between pork and fruit, offering a sweet, aromatic complement to ham. Simmer apple cider with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of cloves until reduced by half, then brush it generously over the ham during roasting. For a smoother texture, strain the mixture before applying. This glaze pairs particularly well with holiday hams, adding a festive note that appeals to all ages. Leftover glaze can be drizzled over roasted vegetables or used as a pancake topping the next morning.
Gravy brings a comforting, savory element to ham dinner, especially when served alongside mashed potatoes or stuffing. To make ham gravy, start by deglazing the roasting pan with chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up the flavorful bits from the bottom. Whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken, and season with black pepper and a touch of thyme. For a richer flavor, add a splash of cream or a knob of butter at the end. This sauce is best for those who prefer a heartier, more traditional accompaniment.
Cranberry sauce introduces a tart, vibrant contrast to the richness of ham, making it a refreshing choice. While store-bought versions are convenient, homemade cranberry sauce is simple to prepare: simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, orange zest, and a splash of water until the berries pop. For a smoother texture, blend the mixture briefly. This sauce is particularly popular during the holidays but works year-round as a palate cleanser. It also pairs well with other dishes like turkey or roasted chicken.
Dijon sauce offers a bold, pungent kick that cuts through the ham’s fattiness. Whisk together Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a quick, creamy sauce. For a warmer flavor, add a teaspoon of honey or a dash of garlic powder. This sauce is excellent as a spread for ham sandwiches or as a dipping sauce for sliced ham. Its versatility extends to other proteins like grilled chicken or fish, making it a useful addition to any kitchen repertoire.
Each of these sauces brings a unique dimension to ham dinner, allowing you to tailor the meal to your taste or occasion. Whether you’re aiming for sweetness, richness, or a tangy contrast, there’s a sauce here to enhance your ham and leave a lasting impression. Experiment with combinations or stick to a favorite—either way, your ham dinner is sure to shine.
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Desserts: Apple pie, chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, cookies
A well-rounded ham dinner deserves a sweet finale that complements its savory richness. While ham’s versatility allows for a wide range of dessert pairings, classics like apple pie, chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, and cookies stand out for their ability to balance and enhance the meal. Each of these desserts brings a unique texture and flavor profile, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Apple pie is a timeless choice that pairs beautifully with ham’s salty-sweet profile. The cinnamon-spiced apples and flaky crust create a comforting contrast to the meal’s heartiness. For a modern twist, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add creaminess. If baking isn’t your forte, opt for a store-bought pie and focus on presentation—a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of powdered sugar elevates it effortlessly.
Chocolate cake offers a decadent counterpoint to ham’s smoky flavor. A rich, moist cake with a hint of espresso or a light ganache frosting can cut through the meal’s richness without overwhelming it. For a lighter option, choose a flourless chocolate cake, which pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries. Pro tip: Serve small slices to avoid overshadowing the main course.
Vanilla ice cream is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, especially for those who prefer simplicity. Its neutral sweetness acts as a palate cleanser after a savory ham dinner. Pair it with a warm dessert like a cookie or a slice of apple pie for a classic combination. For a fancier presentation, add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance its flavor without complicating the dish.
Cheesecake brings a creamy, tangy element that contrasts nicely with ham’s saltiness. A New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust is a safe bet, but consider a flavored variation like raspberry swirl or lemon for added brightness. Keep portions modest—a small square or a mini cheesecake ensures guests don’t feel too heavy after the meal.
Cookies are the perfect bite-sized ending, ideal for guests who want something sweet without committing to a full dessert. Chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or shortbread cookies pair well with ham’s flavor profile. For a playful touch, serve them alongside a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. If time is limited, high-quality store-bought cookies can be just as impressive when arranged on a decorative platter.
Incorporating these desserts into your ham dinner ensures a memorable dining experience. By balancing flavors, textures, and portion sizes, you can create a harmonious transition from savory to sweet, leaving your guests satisfied and impressed.
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Frequently asked questions
Traditional side dishes include mashed potatoes, green beans, macaroni and cheese, and dinner rolls.
Roasted carrots, glazed Brussels sprouts, steamed asparagus, or a fresh green salad complement ham nicely.
Yes, options like scalloped potatoes, rice pilaf, cornbread, or sweet potato casserole pair well with ham.
Classic desserts include apple pie, chocolate cake, bread pudding, or a light fruit salad.
