If you’re like most people, you may find yourself wondering what side dish to serve with your beloved ham sandwich.
When it comes to classic comfort food, our minds usually go straight for the chips or the fruit.
But why not have a little fun and switch out your routine snacks?
There are so many creative and wholesome options that can really pack a punch in terms of flavor!
In this blog post, we’ll provide you with 15 tasty sides that pair exceptionally well with any type of ham sandwiches – from fluffy croissants to crunchy French breads.
So forget about soggy potato chips and let’s get ready for nothing but deliciousness on the table!
What to Serve with Ham Sandwiches? 15 Wholesome Side Dishes
1. Crispy Potato Chips
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy side dish to serve with your ham sandwiches, look no further than crispy potato chips.
This dish is packed with flavor and can be made in just a few minutes.
Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover potatoes you may have.
When making this dish, be sure to use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best results.
If you don’t have any of these varieties on hand, any type of potato will work.
Just be sure to slice the potatoes thinly so that they cook evenly.
To get that perfect crispy texture, it’s important to cook the potato chips in a single layer.
If your pan is too crowded, the potatoes will steam instead of fry.
So take your time and cook them in batches if necessary.
Finally, be sure to season the potato chips with salt immediately after cooking.
This will help them absorb all of the flavors and make them extra delicious.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy.
2. Easy Creamy Tomato Soup
This easy creamy tomato soup is the perfect recipe to try if you’re looking for a delicious and comforting soup that’s also healthy and packed with flavor.
This soup is made with just a few simple ingredients, including tomatoes, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth, and it’s seasoned with basil, oregano, and black pepper.
The result is a flavorful and hearty soup that’s perfect for a chilly winter day.
One of the best things about this soup is that it’s so easy to make.
Simply saute the onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil until they’re softened, then add the tomatoes and cook for a few minutes more.
Add the vegetable broth and seasonings, bring the soup to a simmer, and let it cook for 10 minutes.
Finally, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy.
This soup is also incredibly versatile.
If you want a heartier soup, you can add some cooked rice or quinoa.
Or, if you’re looking for a lightened-up version of this soup, you can omit the cream altogether.
No matter how you enjoy it, this easy creamy tomato soup is sure to be a new favorite.
3. Macaroni Salad
Macaroni salad is a great recipe to try if you’re looking for something new to make for your next potluck or picnic.
This dish is packed with flavor, and the best part is that it’s easy to make.
One of the things that makes macaroni salad so delicious is the variety of flavors that can be added to it.
You can use different types of pasta, add some veggies, or even include some fruit.
The possibilities are endless.
When making macaroni salad, one important tip is to make sure that the pasta is cooked al dente.
This means that it should be firm but not hard.
overcooked pasta will become mushy and will ruin the salad.
Another tip is to dress the salad lightly – you don’t want it to be too wet.
If you’re looking for a new recipe to try, give macaroni salad a shot.
It’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
4. Twice Baked Potato Casserole
This dish is the perfect combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon.
It’s easy to make ahead of time, and it’s always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
To make the casserole, you first need to bake the potatoes until they are soft.
Then, you scoop out the insides and mix them with butter, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
The mixture is then spooned into a baking dish and covered with more cheese and bacon.
The dish is baked for a second time until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven.
But leftovers can be reheated in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.
Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- It’s packed with flavor – The combination of potatoes, cream cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions is absolutely delicious. You’ll love every bite of this casserole.
- It’s easy to make – This recipe is very simple to follow and doesn’t require any special skills or ingredients.
- It’s versatile – This casserole can be served as a side dish or main course. It’s perfect for any occasion.
5. Scalloped Potatoes
When it comes to side dishes, there are so many delicious options to choose from.
But if you’re looking for something that is both tasty and wholesome, then you should definitely try scalloped potatoes.
Scalloped potatoes are a great option because they are packed with nutrients and flavor.
They are also relatively easy to make.
Simply slice the potatoes thinly, add some cream and cheese, and bake in the oven until golden brown.
One of the best things about scalloped potatoes is that they are very versatile.
You can add whatever seasonings you like or even top with bacon or sausage for an extra hearty meal.
So whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a main course, scalloped potatoes are sure to please everyone at the table.
6. New England Clam Chowder
New England clam chowder is a delicious and hearty soup that is perfect for a winter meal.
This soup is made with clams, potatoes, and onions and is flavored with bacon and thyme.
It is also thickened with cream or milk.
One of the great things about this soup is that it is relatively easy to make.
The flavors are also well-balanced, and the soup has a nice creamy texture.
If you are looking for a delicious and comforting soup to make this winter, then you should definitely try New England clam chowder.
When making this soup, be sure to use fresh clams if possible.
Canned clams can also be used, but they will not taste as good.
If using fresh clams, be sure to cook them properly so that they do not give the soup a gritty texture.
It is also important to use Yukon gold potatoes in this soup, as they have a higher starch content and will thicken the soup nicely.
7. Easy Tater Tot Nachos
Do you love nachos but find them too heavy? These easy tater tot nachos are the perfect solution.
They’re lighter than traditional nachos but just as flavorful.
And they’re super easy to make.
The key to making great tater tot nachos is to get the tater tots nice and crispy.
I like to bake mine in the oven, but you could also fry them if you prefer.
Once they’re crispy, top them with all your favorite nacho toppings.
I like to use black beans, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
But feel free to get creative and use whatever toppings you like best.
These tater tot nachos are the perfect party food or weeknight dinner.
Serve them with a side of sour cream or guacamole for dipping.
8. Crispy Smashed Potatoes
If you’re looking for a new and delicious way to enjoy potatoes, you should definitely try Crispy Smashed Potatoes.
They make the perfect side dish for any meal, and they’re so easy to make.
The key to making these potatoes crispy is to first boil them until they’re nice and soft.
Then, you’ll want to smash them with a fork or potato masher.
Once they’re smashed, you’ll coat them in olive oil and sea salt before roasting them in the oven.
The result is a crispy, salty, and oh-so-delicious potato that your whole family will love.
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect Crispy Smashed Potatoes:
- Be sure to boil the potatoes until they’re very soft before smashing them. If they’re not cooked enough, they won’t get as crispy when roasted.
- Use plenty of olive oil and sea salt for optimal flavor.
- Roast the potatoes at a high temperature (400 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) so that they get nice and crispy on the outside.
9. Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
We all know that sweet potato are a healthier alternative to regular potatoes, but they can sometimes be a bit bland.
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These oven-baked sweet potato fries are the perfect solution.
They’re coated in a delicious blend of spices, and they come out nice and crispy.
Plus, they’re much healthier than their deep-fried counterparts.
These fries are the perfect side dish to any meal, or you could even enjoy them as a snack.
They’re packed with flavor, and they’re sure to satisfy your cravings.
And best of all, they’re super easy to make.
Just toss everything in a bowl, mix it up, and bake.
It’s that simple.
Here are a few tips to help you get the perfect results:
- Make sure to coat the sweet potatoes in the spice mixture evenly. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from sticking to the pan.
- If you want extra crispy fries, you can try preheating the baking sheet in the oven before adding the sweet potatoes.
- For an even healthier option, you can bake these fries without any oil. Just be sure to coat them lightly with cooking spray, so they don’t stick to the pan.
10. Spicy Lebanese Potatoes
This recipe for Spicy Lebanese Potatoes is the perfect side dish to accompany your ham sandwich.
The potatoes are roasted in a blend of spices, including cumin, paprika, and chili powder, giving them a delicious flavor that will complement the salty taste of the ham.
If you’re looking for a little bit of heat, you can also add some crushed red pepper flakes to the spice blend.
When roasting the potatoes, be sure to cut them into even-sized pieces so that they cook evenly.
You can either leave the skins on or peel them off, depending on your preference.
I like to leave the skins on because it adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
11. Maple Mustard Brussels Sprouts
Looking for a unique and flavorful side dish to serve with your ham sandwiches? Then you need to try Maple Mustard Brussels Sprouts.
This dish is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
The key to making this dish is to get the right balance of sweetness and acidity.
The maple syrup provides the perfect amount of sweetness, while the mustard brings out the bitterness of the Brussels sprouts.
If you find that the dish is too sweet, then add a bit more mustard.
Similarly, if you find that it’s too bitter, then add a bit more maple syrup.
Another tip for making this dish is to make sure that the Brussels sprouts are properly cooked.
They should be soft but still, have a bit of crunch to them.
overcooked Brussels sprouts will become mushy and will not taste as good.
12. Crispy Fried Plantains
Have you ever had plantains? They’re a delicious, starchy fruit that can be cooked in many different ways.
One of my favorites is to fry them until they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
They make a great side dish or snack, and they’re really easy to make.
Plantains have a mildly sweet flavor, so they go well with savory dishes like ham sandwiches.
If you’ve never had them before, I recommend trying them crispy fried.
The texture is amazing – it’s like a cross between a potato chip and a banana.
And they’re not too greasy, so you don’t have to feel guilty about eating them.
Here are some tips for making the best crispy fried plantains:
- Cut the plantains into thin slices before frying them. This will help them cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
- Fry the plantains in batches so that they have plenty of room to move around in the pan. This will help them crisp up nicely.
- Serve the plantains with a dipping sauce like ketchup or ranch dressing.
13. Italian Potato Salad
This is a great recipe to try if you’re looking for something a little different from the typical American potato salad.
The flavors in this dish are very unique and will leave your taste buds wanting more.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it is very versatile.
You can add or remove any ingredients that you like, depending on your personal preference.
For example, if you don’t like olives, you can simply leave them out.
Or, if you want to add more vegetables, feel free to do so.
Another great thing about this dish is that it can be served either cold or hot.
If you prefer, you can even reheat it in the microwave before serving.
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Italian potato salad:
- Be sure to use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for this recipe. They hold their shape well and have a nice flavor.
- If you want a creamier salad, you can add some Italian dressing or mayonnaise to the mixture.
- For a bit of color and extra flavor, try adding some chopped fresh parsley or basil to the salad.
14. Strawberry Spinach Salad
This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a great recipe to try if you’re looking for something healthy, flavorful and easy to make.
This salad is packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach, strawberries, almonds and feta cheese.
The sweet and tangy vinaigrette dressing ties all of the flavors together perfectly.
One of the best things about this salad is that it’s so versatile.
You can easily add or remove ingredients to suit your taste.
For example, if you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can leave it out or substitute it with another type of cheese.
This salad is also great for meal prep since it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for later.
Here are some tips for making this Strawberry Spinach Salad:
- Be sure to wash the spinach leaves thoroughly before adding them to the salad.
- If you’re using fresh strawberries, slice them just before adding them to the salad so they don’t start to bleed into the other ingredients.
- To save time, you can purchase pre-sliced almonds or use chopped nuts instead.
- The vinaigrette dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in a jar or container with a tight fitting lid.
15. Ambrosia Salad
If you’re looking for a delicious and wholesome side dish to serve with your ham sandwiches, look no further than ambrosia salad.
This fruit salad is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.
One of the great things about ambrosia salad is that it’s so easy to make.
Simply combine all of your ingredients in a bowl and mix them together.
The fruits will release their natural juices as they mix, creating a delicious and refreshing dressing for the salad.
Another reason to love this dish is that it’s so versatile.
You can use any type of fruit you like, so feel free to get creative.
If you’re not a fan of pineapple, try substituting it for another tropical fruit like mango or papaya.
And if you want to add a little more sweetness to the dish, you can always drizzle on some honey or add a sprinkle of sugar.
Conclusion
Now that you know what goes well with ham sandwiches, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test.
Head to the grocery store, or better yet, the farmer’s market, and pick up all the ingredients you need for a delicious ham sandwich feast.
Don’t forget the napkins.
What to Serve with Ham Sandwiches? 15 Wholesome Side Dishes
Ingredients
- 1. Crispy Potato Chips
- 2. Easy Creamy Tomato Soup
- 3. Macaroni Salad
- 4. Twice Baked Potato Casserole
- 5. Scalloped Potatoes
- 6. New England Clam Chowder
- 7. Easy Tater Tot Nachos
- 8. Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- 9. Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- 10. Spicy Lebanese Potatoes
- 11. Maple Mustard Brussels Sprouts
- 12. Crispy Fried Plantains
- 13. Italian Potato Salad
- 14. Strawberry Spinach Salad
- 15. Ambrosia Salad
Instructions
- Select your favorite sides from the list above.
- Prepare the side dish according to the recipe instructions.
- If you’re short on time, some of these can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Serve and enjoy!
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!