Are you looking at that succulent ham steak on your counter and pondering the best way to transform it into a mouthwatering masterpiece? We all know the struggle of picking just the right side dishes.
It’s about striking that perfect chord, where each accompaniment doesn’t just go with the main attraction – it makes it shine.
Honestly, I’ve lost count of how often I’ve been caught in this delicious dilemma, trying to find those ideal partners for my ham’s rich and sweet notes. Consider this: Americans pack away an astonishing 318 million pounds of ham during festive times alone! Think of all those chances to nail down our side dish game. My own foodie journey has meandered through countless kitchen adventures, all to share with you this handpicked collection of recipes.
Whether you’re craving some good old-fashioned comfort sides or something light and refreshing, these choices are curated to bring harmony to your taste buds and add a splash of diversity to your plate.
Brace yourself for a lineup that will complete your dinner spread in style.
Key Takeaways
- Serving side dishes with ham steak enhances the overall meal, offering a variety of flavors, textures, and visual appeal to create a memorable dining experience.
- Popular side dish options like scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, mashed sweet potatoes, creamy corn pudding, broccoli and cheese casserole, and cheesy potatoes au gratin complement the savory flavors of ham steak while providing richness and substance to the meal.
- Lighter side dish options such as green salad offer a refreshing contrast to balance out the richness of ham steak.
Why Consider Serving Side Dishes with Ham Steak?
Serving side dishes with ham steak enhances the meal, provides variety, and balances the flavors.
Enhances the Meal
Choosing the right side dishes for ham steak takes the entire meal to a new level. Imagine biting into a slice of succulent ham paired with creamy scalloped potatoes or the sweet tanginess of roasted acorn squash; it’s truly a flavor explosion.
Elegant accompaniments like Brussels sprouts gratin or green beans almondine add not just visual appeal but also delightful textures and tastes that make the main dish shine even brighter.
I always look forward to trying out different combinations, as they can transform an ordinary dinner into something special. For instance, swapping usual sides with lemony asparagus risotto or homemade honey yeast rolls introduces new dimensions of taste that complement the rich flavors of ham steak beautifully.
With such a variety of 40 best side dishes to choose from, every bite becomes an adventure — whether it’s pairing with something hearty like baked mac and parmesan cheese or keeping it light with a fresh kale Caesar salad, there’s no end to creating memorable meals.
Provides Variety
When it comes to serving side dishes with ham steak, variety is key. Including a diverse selection of sides ensures that there is something for everyone at the table. With 40 best side dish options available to choose from, there are traditional classics like scalloped potatoes and green bean casserole, as well as more creative options such as garlic mashed potatoes and Hawaiian baked beans.
The wide array of choices allows for a mix of flavors and textures that complement the savory taste of ham steak.
Pairing ham steak with an assortment of delicious sides not only adds depth to the meal but also caters to different preferences. Whether it’s creamy corn pudding or healthier options like steamed vegetables and kale Caesar salad, offering variety ensures that each guest can find something they enjoy alongside the flavorful ham steak.
Balances the Flavors
To complement the rich and savory taste of ham steak, it’s essential to include side dishes that balance the flavors. Whether it’s the sweetness of a glazed ham or the saltiness of a savory glaze, pairing it with sides like creamy mashed sweet potatoes or tangy pineapple salsa can help create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Adding some acidity with a zesty coleslaw or serving up steamed vegetables for a lighter option can also balance out the richness of the ham, providing a refreshing contrast to each bite.
The variety of textures and tastes from side dishes such as cheesy au gratin potatoes, honey yeast rolls, or crisp green bean almondine helps to create an enjoyable dining experience when paired with ham steak.
Popular Side Dishes for Ham Steak
- Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich and creamy sauce, baked until golden brown and bubbly.
- Green Bean Casserole: A classic side dish made with crispy fried onions, creamy mushroom soup, and tender green beans.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy sweet potatoes mashed with butter and a touch of cinnamon for a delightful contrast to the savory ham steak.
- Creamy Corn Pudding: A comforting combination of sweet corn, eggs, milk, and butter baked into a luscious pudding-like texture.
- Broccoli and Cheese Casserole: Fresh broccoli florets smothered in a velvety cheese sauce then baked to perfection.
- Cheesy Potatoes au Gratin: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with a rich cheese sauce and baked until bubbly and golden brown.
Scalloped Potatoes
I love serving scalloped potatoes with ham steak. The creamy, cheesy texture of the potatoes complements the savory flavor of the ham perfectly. It adds richness and substance to the meal, making it a satisfying and delicious combination.
The buttery layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce create a comforting side dish that everyone enjoys.
Scalloped potatoes are also versatile – they can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, which makes them convenient for entertaining or busy weeknights at home.
The combination of tender potatoes, flavorful cheese, and rich cream ensures that this classic side dish will always be an excellent choice to pair with ham steak.
Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham steak. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions creates a savory and comforting accompaniment to the succulent flavors of ham.
This easy-to-make casserole adds both texture and richness to the meal, making it an ideal choice for a hearty dinner or holiday feast. Additionally, its simplicity fits in well with the overall spread of side dishes while adding an element of warmth to the dining experience.
To make green bean casserole even more enticing, consider adding shredded cheese or bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor. These additions elevate the traditional recipe and provide a delightful twist that will delight your guests and family members alike.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
I love serving mashed sweet potatoes as a side dish with ham steak. They add a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the meal, balancing out the savory flavors of the ham. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the ham, creating a delicious contrast on the plate.
Plus, they are easy to make and can be customized with different seasonings like cinnamon, nutmeg, or brown sugar for added flavor.
Mashed sweet potatoes also provide a pop of vibrant color to your dinner spread, making for an aesthetically pleasing presentation alongside your ham steak. Additionally, they offer a healthy dose of vitamins and nutrients such as Vitamin A and fiber, adding nutritional value to your meal without compromising on taste.
Creamy Corn Pudding
Continuing the quest for delectable side dishes to accompany ham steak, I stumbled upon a delightful recipe for creamy corn pudding. This dish brings together the sweetness of fresh corn with the rich creaminess of milk and eggs.
The addition of a hint of nutmeg or paprika adds depth to the flavor profile, creating a dish that perfectly complements the savory goodness of ham steak. With its smooth texture and comforting warmth, creamy corn pudding is sure to become a favorite among your family and guests, enriching your dining experience with its delicious simplicity.
Adding this creamy corn pudding to your meal provides an ideal balance between richness and lightness – amplifying the flavors on your plate and offering a heartwarming touch that elevates the overall dining experience.
Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Moving on from the creamy corn pudding, another delectable side dish to pair with ham steak is the broccoli and cheese casserole. This dish combines the earthy flavor of broccoli with the rich and creamy texture of melted cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors to complement the savory ham steak.
The vibrant green color of the broccoli also adds a visually appealing element to your meal. Besides being an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients, this casserole brings a delightful twist to traditional vegetable sides for ham, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an upgrade in their dining experience.
The Broccoli and Cheese Casserole offers a satisfying combination that perfectly complements the succulent flavors of ham steak. It’s no wonder why many consider this dish one of the best side dishes for ham due to its versatility in adding depth and dimension to any meal featuring this classic meat entree.
Cheesy Potatoes au Gratin
Moving on to another delectable side dish for ham steak, let’s explore the irresistible appeal of cheesy potatoes au gratin. This classic dish combines thinly sliced potatoes with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection.
The layers of tender potatoes bathed in a savory blend of melted cheese and cream create a comforting accompaniment that perfectly complements the succulent flavor of ham steak. Incorporating keywords such as “tasty sides for ham steak” and “delicious side dishes for ham steak,” this indulgent recipe is sure to elevate your dining experience when serving this delightful main course.
Layering thinly sliced potatoes with a decadent mixture of cheddar or gruyere cheese, buttery breadcrumbs, and flavorful seasonings creates an enticing side dish that will become an instant favorite at any gathering.
The richness of the cheese pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the ham steak while adding a satisfying texture to each mouthful. With its combination of flavors and textures, cheesy potatoes au gratin serves as an ideal complement to the hearty and robust taste profile offered by ham steak.
Lighter Side Dishes
Green Salad: A fresh and light option to balance out the richness of the ham steak. Want more ideas? Keep reading for a variety of delicious side dishes to serve with ham.
Green Salad
For a refreshing and healthy option to serve with ham steak, try a crisp green salad. Tossed with an assortment of fresh collard greens like lettuce, spinach, arugula, or kale and topped with colorful vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots, this vibrant salad adds a burst of color to the meal.
To elevate the flavors further, consider adding some sliced avocado or toasted nuts for creaminess and crunch. Drizzle your favorite vinaigrette over the salad—a tangy balsamic or zesty lemon dressing would be fantastic—enhancing the overall taste experience.
Incorporating a green salad provides a light and nutritious side dish that complements the richness of ham steak. The freshness and crunchiness of the salad offer contrast to the savory meat while contributing to a well-balanced meal.
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are a simple and healthy side dish option to pair with ham steak. I prefer steaming a medley of fresh carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower for a colorful and nutritious addition to the meal.
Steaming retains the natural flavors and nutrients of the vegetables, making them a perfect accompaniment for a hearty ham steak. The vibrant colors and crisp texture of steamed veggies provide a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the ham.
Including steamed vegetables as part of your meal not only adds visual appeal but also contributes essential vitamins and fiber. It’s an easy way to create balance in your plate while offering a lighter alternative among the array of side dishes available for serving with ham steak.
Coleslaw
When considering what to serve with ham steak, coleslaw is a classic side dish that provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the richness of the meat. This simple dish consists of shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy dressing, making it an ideal accompaniment for ham steak.
The crisp texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw help cleanse the palate in between each savory bite of ham, creating a balanced and satisfying dining experience.
Coleslaw also adds vibrant color to the plate, enhancing its visual appeal. Its versatility allows for variations such as adding pineapple or apples for a hint of sweetness or incorporating jalapenos for an extra kick.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham steak. The creamy and tangy filling adds a delightful contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the ham. Making deviled eggs is also quite easy, making it a convenient addition to your meal.
Furthermore, their versatility allows for different flavor variations, such as adding bacon bits or paprika for an extra kick.
These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also add visual appeal to the table. They are perfect for gatherings and can be prepared in advance, saving time on the day of your meal.
Other Delicious Sides for Ham Steak
Baked Mac and Cheese, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Broccoli Cauliflower Salad, Hawaiian Baked Beans, and Potato Ham Bake are all delicious options to serve alongside a juicy ham steak.
Baked Mac and Cheese
The combo of Baked Mac and Cheese pairs perfectly with ham steak. The creamy, cheesy goodness of the macaroni and cheese complements the savory flavor of the ham. It’s an indulgent side dish that adds a comforting touch to your meal.
The recipe for Baked Mac and Cheese typically includes ingredients like elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, it brings a delightful contrast in texture to the tender ham steak.
This classic comfort food is easy to make and loved by both kids and adults alike.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs well with ham steak. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes combined with the aromatic flavor of garlic creates a delicious complement to the savory taste of the ham.
This classic side dish is simple to prepare, making it an ideal addition to any ham steak meal.
Mashing boiled potatoes with minced garlic, butter, milk, salt, and pepper results in a rich and creamy potato dish with a delightful hint of garlic. The robust flavors from the garlic infuse into the potatoes, creating a mouthwatering blend that adds depth to every bite.
Broccoli Cauliflower Salad
Looking for a lighter side to balance the richness of ham steak? Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is a fresh and vibrant option that brings a delightful crunch and loads of flavor to the meal.
This simple salad combines crisp broccoli and cauliflower florets with tangy red onions, crunchy bacon bits, and shredded cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy dressing. The blend of textures and flavors in this dish creates a perfect contrast to the savory ham steak, making it an ideal accompaniment for your meal.
This hearty salad not only adds visual appeal but also offers a healthy component to balance out the indulgent ham steak. With its combination of vegetables and protein-rich ingredients, this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad is sure to please everyone at the table while providing a satisfying contrast to the main dish.
Hawaiian Baked Beans
Now, moving on from the delightful broccoli cauliflower salad, consider adding a tropical twist to your ham steak meal with Hawaiian baked beans. These sweet and savory baked beans are infused with pineapple, bacon, and a touch of brown sugar for an irresistible flavor combination.
The addition of bell peppers and onions adds a colorful pop to the dish. This side pairs wonderfully with ham steak as it brings a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the saltiness of the meat.
Perfect for adding some island-inspired flair to your dinner table.
Hawaiian baked beans offer a unique fusion of flavors that add excitement to your ham steak meal. The blend of pineapple, bacon, and bell peppers creates an unforgettable taste experience that perfectly enhances the main dish.
Potato Ham Bake
Potato ham bake is a comforting and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with ham steak. Sliced potatoes are layered with diced ham, creamy sauce, and cheese before being baked to golden perfection.
This flavorful casserole brings together the savory goodness of ham with the rich creaminess of potatoes, creating a satisfying accompaniment for any meal featuring ham steak. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheese in each bite makes this potato ham bake a crowd-pleasing favorite at any dinner table.
The versatile nature of potato ham bake allows it to be easily adapted to different tastes and preferences by adding in ingredients such as onions, garlic, or herbs. Whether served for a casual family meal or special occasion dinner, this classic dish adds warmth and comfort to the dining experience when paired with succulent slices of ham steak.
Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an excellent choice for those seeking a delicious side dish that complements the robust taste of grilled or baked ham steak.
FAQs
What are some tasty side dish ideas for a ham steak dinner?
You can serve delicious sides like scalloped potatoes, glazed carrots, or green bean casserole to make your ham steak meal complete.
Can you suggest easy side dishes that go well with ham steak?
Sure! Some easy dishes include buttery corn on the cob, mashed sweet potatoes, or a simple pea salad that complements the flavors of ham steak.
What are perfect pairings for grilled ham steak if I want to impress my guests?
To impress your guests, try pairing grilled ham steak with gourmet macaroni and cheese; roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon bits, or a rustic apple slaw.
Are there any specific recipes for side dishes designed for a ham dinner?
Absolutely! There’s an array of recipes like honey-glazed vegetables, creamy polenta with herbs, and pineapple rice that were crafted as ideal accompaniments for a flavorful ham dinner.
When serving pork in the form of a savory gravy-laden ham steak?
Gravy-smothered pork is rich in flavor; opt for lighter sides such as steamed asparagus or herbed couscous to balance out your plate when enjoying juicy gravied ham steaks.
Conclusion
The article has showcased an extensive variety of side dish options for serving with ham steak. The practical and efficient tips provided cater to different tastes and preferences, adding a touch of elegance to the meal.
Implementing these strategies can lead to significant improvements in enhancing the dining experience when serving ham steak. Readers are encouraged to explore additional resources or further reading to continue their culinary journey beyond this article.
Embrace the opportunity to elevate your meals with these flavorful side dishes.