Country ham biscuits are a beloved Southern comfort food The salty, savory flavor of the cured ham pairs perfectly with the fluffy, buttery biscuit. But what sides really complement this tasty meal? After scouring recipes, here are 15 of the very best side dishes to serve with country ham biscuits
Invigorating Coleslaw
A crisp, tangy coleslaw is a classic pairing with country ham biscuits. The crunch of the cabbage and carrots contrasts nicely with the flaky biscuit while the creamy dressing balances the salty ham. Making coleslaw is easy – simply chop up cabbage, grate some carrots, whisk together a tangy dressing like cider vinegar and mayo, and chill before serving. The varying textures make for an engaging eating experience.
Protein-Packed Deviled Eggs
In addition to coleslaw, deviled eggs are another great accompaniment to country ham biscuits. The creamy yolk filling and rich egg taste complement the savory ham perfectly. Deviled eggs also add extra protein to make the meal more satisfying. Simply hard boil some eggs, scoop out the yolks, mix with mayo, mustard and other flavorings, then pipe the filling back into the whites.
Comforting Mac and Cheese
For the ultimate comfort food side, try cheesy macaroni and cheese. The creamy, gooey pasta blanketed in melted cheese sauce pairs wonderfully with the salty biscuits. And who doesn’t love mac and cheese? For best results, use a combination of cheese like cheddar and gruyere and top with crispy breadcrumbs or cheese.
Tangy Pickled Okra
Pickled okra adds a nice tangy crunch to balance out the hearty biscuit and ham. Use fresh, firm okra and pickle with a spiced vinegar brine for the best flavor. Chill thoroughly before serving the pickled okra to maintain that satisfying crunch.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Another classic Southern side dish that’s perfect with country ham biscuits is sweet potato casserole. It has a delightful lightly sweet flavor and creamy texture that complements the savory ham. Made with vitamin-rich sweet potatoes, this tasty casserole usually includes ingredients like brown sugar, pecans, marshmallows or maple syrup
Refreshing Green Bean Salad
A crisp green bean salad makes a great lighter side to serve with rich country ham biscuits. Green beans have a refreshing crunch and you can dress them in something acidic like a red wine vinaigrette to balance the biscuit’s richness. You can also add other veggies like cherry tomatoes or red onion for extra color and flavor.
Fruity Salad
A fresh fruit salad adds natural sweetness and brightness to the meal. Use a mix of whatever fruit is in season for the best flavor. Some options include berries, melons, stone fruits, and citrus. Dress the fruit lightly with a honey-lime vinaigrette to complement the ham biscuits.
Hearty Skillet Cornbread
Warm cornbread is a beloved accompaniment to country ham. Baked in a cast iron skillet, cornbread gets delightfully brown and crispy edges. The corn flavor pairs nicely with the ham’s saltiness too. Feel free to add cheese, jalapenos, or other mix-ins to the cornbread batter as well.
Smoky Baked Beans
Baked beans are another classic side, thanks to their rich, smoky flavor. Slow cook the beans with spices and sweeteners like brown sugar, then bake until thick and saucy. The sweetness balances the salty ham biscuit beautifully. Try our easy recipe for the best homemade baked beans.
Creamy Cheese Grits
Cheese grits make a deliciously creamy and rich side dish for country ham biscuits. The smooth, corn-y grits become even more decadent with the addition of sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese. Quick grits work well, or opt for old fashioned for more flavor. Just stir in the cheese at the end until melted.
Crispy Fried Green Tomatoes
For something decadent, try fried green tomatoes. Sliced green tomatoes get dredged in flour and cornmeal then fried until golden and crispy. The tangy tomatoes contrast with the salty ham and biscuit beautifully. Fried green tomatoes are quintessential Southern.
Classic Potato Salad
Potato salad is a staple side dish for good reason – it’s tasty, filling and easy to make for a crowd. Dice boiled potatoes while still warm, then fold in a mayo-based dressing and chopped celery, onions, pickles, and hard boiled eggs. Potato salad makes a satisfying, creamy pairing for country ham biscuits.
Pimento Cheese Spread
Pimento cheese is a beloved Southern specialty. The pungent cheese and pimentos get blended with mayo for a spreadable dip or sandwich topping. Pimento cheese makes a great addition to a country ham biscuit sandwich or served alongside for spreading onto bites.
Garlicky Sautéed Greens
For a healthier, lighter option, try sautéed greens. Collard, mustard, turnip, and kale greens taste delicious sautéed with olive oil, garlic, and vinegar. The bitter greens balance the salty rich biscuit beautifully. You’ll get vitamins A, K, and C too.
Versatile Sides for Any Ham Dish
Most classic Southern sides pair well with any type of ham entree – smoked, baked, or country ham. Potatoes, mac and cheese, green beans, coleslaw, and cornbread are versatile choices that complement the saltiness. Adjust recipes to make the sides best suit the type of ham.
Sweet Apple Butter
Finally, a dollop of homemade apple butter makes a nice sweet condiment for country ham biscuits. The tart apples offset the savory ham perfectly. For the best flavor, make your own apple butter so you can control the spices and sweetness. It’s delicious on biscuits, toast or oatmeal too.
Country ham biscuits are so comforting, but even better when served with an array of delicious sides like flavorful salads, warm veggies, savory dips and buttery breads. With so many options, from coleslaw and baked beans to mac and cheese and apple butter, you can create a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different sides to find your favorite pairings.
COUNTRY HAM CHREAMY RANCH DIP
This dip is an easy recipe. It’s super creamy and perfectly salty, in just the right way.
- 6 ounces sliced country ham
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 ounce package ranch dressing mix
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 green onions
Step 1: Heat up a large, deep skillet over medium-low heat and brown the Country Ham all over. This should take about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Use a mixer on medium speed to mix the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise ranch mix, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Fold in remaining ingredients.
Step 4: Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
Country Ham Biscuits Tutorial
What goes well with a ham biscuit?
Sweet and spicy Jezebel Sauce also makes a perfect pair with salty ham. A great ham biscuit is just as much about the biscuit as it is about the ham, so don’t over-stuff the biscuit. Two or three slices of thick-cut ham is just the right amount. If you want more ham, that’s a perfectly good reason to make yourself another sandwich.
Is ham gluten free?
Ham naturally by itself is gluten-free. Although, many companies made their ham with gluten-containing ingredients like broth, spices, and glazes. So, you must prefer brands that indicate they are gluten-free on the packaging.
How do you serve Ham biscuits?
Select the ham: Stuff them with slightly sweet sliced honey-baked ham, thick-cut country ham for a saltier bite, or even shaved deli ham for an easy option. Swap the spread: Use any spread options you desire, or serve your ham biscuits with an assortment of spreads on the side to allow your guests to choose their own!
Are ham biscuits good for sandwiches?
The ham biscuits are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Start with a really great biscuit, and cut them fairly small (2-inches or less) to make smaller, manageable sandwiches. You can use the Southern Buttermilk Biscuits included here, or try angel biscuits or drop biscuits.