Ham Dinner Ideas Thanksgiving Sides

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Ham Dinner Ideas Thanksgiving Sides: A Savory Symphony for Your Holiday Feast

Hey there, readers!

Thanksgiving, the time of year for family, friends, and an abundance of delicious food. And what’s more emblematic of Thanksgiving than a succulent ham as the centerpiece? But let’s not forget about the sides that elevate the ham to culinary stardom. In this article, we’ll delve into a delightful array of ham dinner ideas and Thanksgiving sides that will make your holiday meal unforgettable.

Salads: A Refreshing Prelude

Cranberry Orange Salad

Kick off your Thanksgiving feast with a burst of vibrant colors and flavors. This salad combines sweet cranberries, juicy oranges, and a hint of orange zest for a refreshing and tangy start to your meal.

Waldorf Salad

A classic Thanksgiving favorite, Waldorf salad offers a harmonious blend of sweet and crunchy apples, crisp celery, walnuts, and grapes. Topped with a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, this salad is a delightful side that complements the savory ham.

Breads: Warm and Comforting

Honey Butter Cornbread

Nothing says comfort like warm, freshly baked cornbread. This version is made extra special with a sweet glaze of honey butter that melts into every bite. It’s the perfect accompaniment to soak up all the delicious ham juices.

Dinner Rolls

Fluffy, buttery dinner rolls are a staple at any holiday gathering. Serve them warm, brushed with melted butter, and watch them disappear from the table.

Vegetables: Roasted, Mashed, and More

Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Brussels sprouts get a makeover with roasting. Their caramelized exteriors and tender interiors make them a delightful contrast to the rich ham. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for a flavorful treat.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

A Thanksgiving staple, mashed sweet potatoes are a comforting and sweet addition to your meal. Whip them until smooth and creamy, and then top them with a drizzle of maple syrup or marshmallow fluff for an extra touch of sweetness.

Green Bean Casserole

This classic Thanksgiving side is a crowd-pleaser. Green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions blend together to create a creamy and satisfying dish that perfectly complements the ham.

Other Sides

Stuffing

Stuffing is an essential Thanksgiving side that can be made in a variety of ways. Opt for a traditional sage and onion stuffing, or try a more unique variation like sausage and apple stuffing or cranberry and wild rice stuffing.

Mac and Cheese

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This creamy and cheesy side is a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages. Top it with shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite toppings for an indulgent treat.

Sides for Different Ham Sizes

Ham Size Salad Bread Vegetable Other
10-12 pounds Cranberry Orange Salad Honey Butter Cornbread Roasted Brussel Sprouts Stuffing
12-15 pounds Waldorf Salad Dinner Rolls Mashed Sweet Potatoes Mac and Cheese
15-18 pounds Both salads Both breads Green Bean Casserole Stuffing and Mac and Cheese

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, readers! A delicious array of ham dinner ideas and Thanksgiving sides that will elevate your holiday feast to new heights. Whether you’re planning a traditional meal or something a little more unique, these recipes will have your guests raving about your culinary skills.

While you’re here, be sure to check out our other festive articles for more holiday inspiration:

Happy Thanksgiving, and may your meal be filled with joy, laughter, and delicious ham and sides!

FAQ about “Ham Dinner Ideas Thanksgiving Sides”

What are some classic Thanksgiving sides that go well with ham?

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Cornbread stuffing
  • Green bean casserole
  • Cranberry sauce

Can I make any of these sides ahead of time?

Yes, many Thanksgiving sides can be made ahead of time to save you time on the big day. Some of the best sides to make ahead include:

  • Mashed potatoes: Mash the potatoes and then transfer them to an oven-safe dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.
  • Sweet potatoes: Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and then bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until tender. Mash the sweet potatoes and then transfer them to an oven-safe dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through.
  • Cornbread stuffing: Prepare the stuffing according to package directions. Transfer the stuffing to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, bake the stuffing in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.

What are some unique or creative side dishes that I can serve with ham?

  • Brussels sprouts with bacon and cranberries
  • Roasted carrots with honey and thyme
  • Creamy polenta with sautéed mushrooms
  • Kale salad with pomegranate seeds and goat cheese

What are some budget-friendly side dishes that I can serve with ham?

  • Green beans with almonds and onions
  • Corn on the cob
  • Baked apples with cinnamon and sugar
  • Butternut squash soup

What are some kid-friendly side dishes that I can serve with ham?

  • Mac and cheese
  • Chicken nuggets
  • Pizza rolls
  • French fries

What are some healthy side dishes that I can serve with ham?

  • Roasted vegetables
  • Quinoa salad
  • Lentil soup
  • Fruit salad

What are some gluten-free side dishes that I can serve with ham?

  • Mashed cauliflower
  • Sweet potato fries
  • Zucchini bread
  • Gluten-free stuffing

What are some vegetarian side dishes that I can serve with ham?

  • Roasted vegetables
  • Quinoa salad
  • Vegetarian stuffing
  • Lentil soup

What are some vegan side dishes that I can serve with ham?

  • Roasted vegetables
  • Quinoa salad
  • Vegan stuffing
  • Lentil soup

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