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Best Sides For Christmas Ham (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for the perfect way to round out your Christmas ham dinner, look no further than delicious and creative side dishes. While the holiday ham may reign supreme on the table, a spread of tasty sides can make all the difference in creating a truly memorable meal. But with so many options to choose from, where do you start?

When selecting sides for your Christmas ham, consider your guests’ tastes, dietary restrictions, and the overall vibe of your meal. Do you want to go classic with traditional mashed potatoes and green beans, or mix things up with more modern options like roasted brussels sprouts or quinoa salad? Don’t forget to think about balancing flavors and textures – for example, if your ham is on the sweeter side, opt for sides that are more savory or tangy.

Looking for inspiration? Consider asking yourself questions like: What flavors complement ham? What sides can be made ahead of time to save on Christmas day prep? How can I elevate classic recipes with unique ingredients or cooking methods? By keeping these questions in mind, you’ll be sure to create a delicious and festive spread of sides that perfectly complement your holiday ham.

10 Best Sides For Christmas Ham

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for cooking and serving as a delicious main dish for small gatherings or family meals.
2
The product is ideal for slow cooking and transporting large amounts of food with a secure lid lock.
3
Ideal for slow-cooking and smoking food using charcoal, with an 18-inch cooking area.
4
Ideal for charcuterie boards and adding savory, smoky flavor to appetizers, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.
5
It's ideal for slicing meat, cheese, and bread with adjustable thickness, child lock protection, and two removable stainless steel blades.
6
It is ideal for keeping food warm during parties, buffets, and events with adjustable temperature control.
7
The product is ideal for serving turkey or any other large food item during holiday meals or special occasions.
8
It is ideal for those who want a high-quality bone-in pork shoulder from acorn-fed Iberian pigs.
9
The product is ideal for those who enjoy high-quality, boneless ham from acorn-fed Iberian pigs.
10
It is ideal for entertaining guests or special occasions, as well as for adding luxurious flavor to dishes.
Ideal for cooking and serving as a delicious main dish for small gatherings or family meals.
The product is ideal for slow cooking and transporting large amounts of food with a secure lid lock.
Ideal for slow-cooking and smoking food using charcoal, with an 18-inch cooking area.
Ideal for charcuterie boards and adding savory, smoky flavor to appetizers, sandwiches, and pasta dishes.
It's ideal for slicing meat, cheese, and bread with adjustable thickness, child lock protection, and two removable stainless steel blades.
It is ideal for keeping food warm during parties, buffets, and events with adjustable temperature control.
The product is ideal for serving turkey or any other large food item during holiday meals or special occasions.
It is ideal for those who want a high-quality bone-in pork shoulder from acorn-fed Iberian pigs.
The product is ideal for those who enjoy high-quality, boneless ham from acorn-fed Iberian pigs.
It is ideal for entertaining guests or special occasions, as well as for adding luxurious flavor to dishes.

1. Petite Country Ham 3-4 Pounds

Experience the taste of Virginia's Finest salt-cured Country Ham, a ham that is worth trying. This ham is comparable to the Smithfield or Edwards brands but is known for its rich flavor that makes it stand out. It is boneless, weighs 3-4 lbs, and comes already cooked, making it ready to serve. It is an ideal gift for all occasions and makes for a perfect petite ham for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year's, and everyday entertaining.

The Virginia's Finest salt-cured Country Ham has a long shelf life of 10 days without refrigeration, 8 weeks when refrigerated, and 6+ months when frozen. It is a versatile ham that can be enjoyed alone, with cheese, on sandwiches and biscuits, in soups, salads, pastas, omelettes, and potatoes. This ham is salt dry-cured locally, making it a unique and authentic Virginia ham that is worth trying.

If you are unable to purchase the whole ham, consider the Virginia Gourmet Country Ham Slices, which are equally delicious. If you are planning to gift or serve this ham for Christmas, it is recommended to place your order before December 6th to ensure timely delivery.

Pros

  • Unique and authentic Virginia ham
  • Long shelf-life
  • Versatile and delicious
  • Ideal for gifting and entertaining

2. Porta-Crock Xl: Lock, Go, And Cook!

The Extra-large capacity of this slow cooker is perfect for preparing meals for family gatherings or events. It has a 10 quart capacity that can fit a 10 pounds turkey or 12 pounds roast, making it suitable for large servings.

This slow cooker has three temperature settings that allow you to cook on low or high and then switch to warm when your meal is done cooking. This feature makes it very convenient for those who are busy with other tasks.

The Clip-tight sealed lid feature of this slow cooker helps prevent messy spills on the way to a potluck or tailgate. It ensures that the food inside the cooker stays safe and secure while being transported.

The Full-grip handles of this slow cooker have a thoughtful design that makes it easy to carry the heavy pot, especially when it's full. This feature is particularly helpful for those who prefer to take their slow cooker to parties or events.

The Stoneware crock & glass lid of this slow cooker are dishwasher safe, which makes it very easy to clean. You can easily remove the crock and lid from the base and put them in the dishwasher or clean them by hand.

In summary, this Extra-large capacity slow cooker is a must-have for those who love to cook for large gatherings or events. With its three temperature settings, clip-tight sealed lid, full-grip handles, and easy-to-clean features, it is the perfect addition to any kitchen.

Pros

  • Extra-large capacity of 10 quart is perfect for preparing meals for large gatherings or events
  • Three temperature settings allow for easy cooking and convenience
  • Clip-tight sealed lid helps prevent messy spills while transporting
  • Full-grip handles make it easy to carry the slow cooker when full
  • Stoneware crock & glass lid are dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean

3. Weber 18-Inch Smokey Mountain Cooker, Charcoal Smoker

Experience the authentic taste of a smokehouse in the comfort of your own backyard with the Weber Smokey Mountain Charcoal Smoker. Made of durable porcelain-enameled steel, this smoker is designed to withstand the elements and provide long-lasting performance. Its two nickel-plated cooking grates provide ample space for smoking a whole turkey and an entire ham at the same time. The smoker also comes with a water pan, thermometer, individual vents on the bowl and lid, and a heat-resistant nylon handle for added convenience.

The Weber Smokey Mountain smoker is easy to use and perfect for those who love to cook outdoors. It allows you to smoke your favorite meats, poultry, and fish to perfection, giving them an authentic smoky flavor that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or just starting out, the Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker is sure to become a favorite in your outdoor cooking arsenal.

With its sturdy construction, large cooking capacity, and convenient features, the Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. So why wait? Start smoking your favorite foods today with the Weber Smokey Mountain charcoal smoker.

Pros

  • Durable porcelain-enameled steel construction for long-lasting performance
  • Large cooking capacity with two nickel-plated cooking grates
  • Comes with a water pan, thermometer, individual vents on the bowl and lid, and heat-resistant nylon handle for added convenience
  • Easy to use and perfect for smoking meats, poultry, and fish
  • Provides an authentic smoky flavor that is sure to impress

Cons

  • – May take some time to learn how to use and control the temperature
  • – Relatively heavy at 39.1 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around

4. Moser Tirolinger Savory Smoked Italian Ham

The Speck is a type of cured and lightly smoked ham that varies in weight per piece, but the seller ensures to ship as close as possible to the advertised weight. It is a unique type of cured ham that has its own distinct flavor and is closely related to prosciutto di Parma. Before rubbing it down with a cure mixture that contains spices such as juniper and bay leaves, the meat is boned out. Afterward, it is smoked and aged to perfection. The spiced cure gives Speck a more intense and deeper flavor than that of Prosciutto di Parma. Due to the dry-curing process used to make country hams and prosciutto, dry-cured hams are shelf-stable and safe to store at room temperature. Because they have so little water, bacteria cannot thrive in them. This product will be shipped in an insulated container with ice packs to keep it cool. Although the ice packs may melt during shipping, the product is dry-cured; therefore, it is safe to consume. Upon arrival, it is recommended to refrigerate the product.

Pros

  • Unique and distinct flavor
  • Dry-cured for shelf stability
  • Contains a spiced cure mixture for a more intense flavor

Cons

  • – Weight varies per piece

5. Slicemaster: 2 Blades, Child Lock, Adjustable Thickness

The Professional Slicer is a powerful 200-watt machine that is capable of slicing various foods such as meat, deli, cheese, roast beef, vegetables, fruits, and bread with ease. It comes with a thickness control knob that allows the user to adjust the thickness of the slices, ranging from 0-15mm. With this food slicer, you can slice your food precisely and efficiently, making your work in the kitchen easier.

This slicer comes equipped with two sharp blades made of superb 304 stainless steel, a serrated blade and a non-serrated blade, which are suitable for slicing different types of food. The stainless steel tray that comes with the slicer can hold the food slices perfectly after cutting.

Cleaning the Professional Slicer is a breeze thanks to its seamless and removable design. The removable ring-guard cover prevents debris buildup on the cutting surfaces. The blade, food carriage, slide-rod extension, and food pusher are removable, which allows for thorough cleaning and sanitation.

The Professional Slicer also comes equipped with safety features such as non-slip suction cup feet that keep the machine stable while in use. The food pusher also acts as a blade guard to keep your fingers safe while operating the machine. The on/off switch provides added safety.

Made from premium-quality die-cast aluminum, the Professional Slicer is not only super-durable but also rustproof and easy to clean. Its compact design makes it small enough to fit in most cabinets and on countertops. This deli slicer is perfect for prepping weekday lunches or gourmet meals.

Pros

  • Powerful 200-watt machine capable of slicing various foods with ease
  • Thickness control knob allows for adjustable slice thickness of 0-15mm
  • Comes equipped with two sharp blades made of superb 304 stainless steel, a serrated blade, and a non-serrated blade
  • Stainless steel tray that holds the food slices perfectly after cutting
  • Seamless and removable design for easy cleaning and sanitation
  • Non-slip suction cup feet and food pusher that acts as a blade guard for added safety
  • Made from premium-quality die-cast aluminum that is rustproof and easy to clean
  • Compact design that is small enough to fit in most cabinets and on countertops

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for heavy-duty use
  • – May require some practice to get the perfect slice thickness

6. Magic Mill Party Server – Hot & Adjustable!

The Family Size Warming Tray is the perfect addition to any kitchen, with a large 21" x 16" surface that can fit multiple dishes at once. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, Sunday football gathering, holiday meal or any other big parties and events, this warming tray has 4 adjustable temperature controls that make it suitable for any occasion. Simply set it to the temperature suitable for your dish and keep your food warm throughout the whole day. The fuse safety feature ensures that you don't have to worry about overheating the tray, making it safe to use.

With a sleek space-saving design, the black tempered enamel top and stainless steel accents look great on any table or buffet. The revolutionary glass plate design makes cleaning a breeze, and the stay-cool side handles make it easy to transport. The electric hot plate is energy efficient, using low power consumption for an efficient and high-powered heating element that is safe for use with any heat-resistant cookware. The power on indicator light makes it easy to see if the unit is on or off, ensuring that you can always keep track of its status.

Pros

  • Large surface area can fit multiple dishes at once
  • 4 adjustable temperature controls make it suitable for any occasion
  • Fuse safety feature ensures it won't overheat
  • Sleek space-saving design looks great on any table or buffet
  • Revolutionary glass plate design makes cleaning a breeze
  • Stay-cool side handles make it easy to transport
  • Energy-efficient with low power consumption
  • Power on indicator light makes it easy to see if the unit is on or off

7. Pfaltzgraff Earthenware Plymouth Turkey Platter, White, Brown, 21 X 17 Inches

The Plymouth dinnerware is a perfect way to celebrate the abundance of autumn. Featuring embossed pumpkins, acorns, and ears of corn on a warm, creamy white surface, this dinnerware is perfect for any fall gathering. The design is simple yet elegant and will enhance the presentation of any meal.

To complete the look of your autumn-themed table, the Plymouth Oval Platter is a must-have. Measuring 21 x 17 inches, this large platter is perfect for serving your delicious turkey or any other main course. Its warm, creamy white surface and embossed design perfectly complement the season, making it a beautiful addition to your table setting.

The Plymouth Oval Platter is not only beautiful but also practical. It is microwave and dishwasher safe, making it easy to use and clean. However, hand washing is recommended to ensure its longevity.

Pros

  • Embossed pumpkins, acorns, and ears of corn design perfectly complements the season
  • Simple yet elegant design enhances the presentation of any meal
  • Large oval platter is perfect for serving main courses
  • Warm, creamy white surface accentuates the colors of the food being served
  • Microwave and dishwasher safe for easy use and cleaning

Cons

  • – Hand washing is recommended to ensure longevity

8. Cinco Jotas' Acorn-Fed Iberico Shoulder – 10-11lbs

Experience the exquisite taste of Cinco Jotas paleta, a 100% ibérico pork shoulder, delivered straight from the stunning dehesas of southwest Spain. These meadows provide the perfect environment for pure-bred ibérico pigs to roam free and feed on acorns exclusively. The paleta is a true Iberian delicacy, known for its unique and healthy qualities.

It takes two years for the 100% ibérico pig to mature, ensuring the meat is of the highest quality. After maturation, the paleta is expertly cured in the bodegas, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify over time. This process results in a product that is both unique and indulgent.

Savor the pure and exclusive taste of acorn-fed iberico pork with the convenience of a bone-in shoulder ham. It's perfect for a romantic dinner, a social gathering, or any occasion where you want to impress with a sophisticated indulgence.

Pros

  • 100% ibérico pork shoulder for exquisite taste and quality
  • Raised free range on acorns in the scenic dehesas of southwest Spain
  • Expertly cured for unique and indulgent flavors
  • Convenient bone-in shoulder ham for easy serving
  • Perfect for special occasions or social gatherings

Best Sides For Christmas Ham FAQs

Are there any vegetarian or vegan side dishes that complement ham?

Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan side dishes that can complement ham. One popular option is roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, carrots, and green beans. These can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor. Another great choice is a fruit salad, which can include a variety of fresh fruits such as apples, pears, and grapes, and can be dressed with a sweet dressing made from honey or maple syrup. Roasted sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes can also be a delicious accompaniment to ham. For a more savory side dish, consider making a mushroom and herb stuffing, or a quinoa and vegetable pilaf. There are many options available, and with a bit of creativity, you can find the perfect vegetarian or vegan side dish to complement your ham.

Can you recommend any non-traditional sides that pair well with ham?

Absolutely! When it comes to pairing non-traditional sides with ham, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

1. Grilled peaches: The sweetness of the peaches pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of ham. Simply grill some fresh peaches and serve them alongside your ham for a delicious and unexpected side.

2. Sweet potato fries: Sweet potato fries are a great alternative to traditional potato fries and pair well with ham. They're easy to make and add a nice pop of color to your plate.

3. Roasted Brussels sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious side dish that complement the rich flavor of ham. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper, then roast in the oven until crispy.

4. Creamed corn: Creamed corn is a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with ham. It's creamy, sweet, and adds a nice pop of color to your plate.

5. Roasted carrots: Roasted carrots are a simple and flavorful side dish that go well with ham. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs before roasting in the oven.

All of these non-traditional sides are sure to impress your guests and add some variety to your ham dinner.

How do you incorporate seasonal ingredients into your Christmas ham sides?

Incorporating seasonal ingredients into Christmas ham sides is a great way to add some festive flair to your holiday feast. One simple way to do this is to use seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as cranberries, sweet potatoes, and winter squash, in your side dishes. For example, you could make a sweet potato casserole with pecans and marshmallows, or a roasted butternut squash with cinnamon and nutmeg.

Another way to incorporate seasonal ingredients is to use herbs and spices that are common during the holiday season. Rosemary, thyme, and sage are all great options for adding flavor to your ham sides, and they pair well with many different types of ingredients. You could also use warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to add some extra warmth and coziness to your dishes.

Ultimately, the key to incorporating seasonal ingredients into your Christmas ham sides is to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures. Whether you're making a classic green bean casserole or trying something new, there are plenty of ways to make your holiday sides shine.

What are some classic side dishes to serve with Christmas ham?

When it comes to Christmas dinner, ham is a popular choice for the main course. And what better way to complement the deliciously smoky flavor of ham than with some classic side dishes? Here are some traditional side dishes that you can serve with your Christmas ham to create a memorable feast.

1. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with ham. You can also add some garlic or cheese to make them more flavorful.

2. Green Beans – Steamed or roasted green beans are a healthy and colorful addition to your Christmas ham dinner. You can also add some crispy bacon or almonds for extra crunch.

3. Sweet Potatoes – Baked or mashed sweet potatoes with a dash of cinnamon or brown sugar complement the savory taste of ham and add a touch of sweetness to your meal.

4. Cranberry Sauce – A tangy, sweet cranberry sauce is a must-have side dish for any Christmas dinner. It adds a pop of color and flavor to your plate.

5. Dinner Rolls – Warm, fluffy dinner rolls are a must-have with any holiday meal. They are perfect for sopping up the delicious juices from the ham.

So, there you have it! These classic side dishes are sure to make your Christmas ham dinner a hit with your family and friends.

What are some make-ahead side dishes that can be prepared in advance for ease on Christmas day?

Christmas day is a special day that requires a lot of preparation, especially when it comes to cooking. To make things easier and less stressful, it is always a good idea to prepare some make-ahead side dishes that can be reheated or served cold on the day. Some great options include roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips, which can be roasted a day or two in advance and served cold or reheated in the oven. Another great option is mashed potatoes, which can be made ahead of time and reheated in the microwave or oven. Stuffing is also a great make-ahead side dish that can be baked a day or two in advance and reheated in the oven. Other options include cranberry sauce, gravy, and green bean casserole, which can all be made ahead of time and reheated on the day. By preparing some of these side dishes in advance, you can reduce stress and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas day with your loved ones.

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