15 Best Side Dishes for Ham and Cheese Sliders

by
Share this Post

Ham and cheese sliders are always a hit for parties, game days, and family dinners, but the right side dishes make the meal even better. From fresh salads and roasted vegetables to crispy fries and comforting casseroles, there are countless ways to round out your menu.

These side dishes for ham and cheese sliders offer something for every occasion while keeping preparation simple. Browse this collection for easy recipes that pair perfectly with these warm, cheesy sandwiches.

1. Garlic Bread

There’s something wonderfully comforting about warm garlic bread fresh from the oven. The edges turn crisp and golden while the center stays soft enough to soak up all that buttery garlic flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it an easy choice when you need a side that everyone will reach for.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian-American
Equipment: Baking sheet, small bowl, knife
No. of ingredients: 6

Ingredients List

  • 1 loaf French or Italian bread
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or leave it lightly greased.
  2. Slice the loaf in half lengthwise. If you prefer individual pieces, cut it into thick slices without cutting completely through the bottom.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and Parmesan until evenly blended.
  4. Spread the garlic butter generously over the cut surfaces of the bread, making sure to reach the edges.
  5. Place the bread on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are crisp and the top is lightly golden.
  6. For a more toasted finish, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching closely.
  7. Slice and serve immediately while the bread is warm.

What to Serve With: Spaghetti, lasagna, baked chicken, meatballs, or grilled vegetables.

What to Drink With: Sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a glass of Italian red wine.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad can turn a simple meal into something that feels complete. Crunchy lettuce, creamy dressing, Parmesan, and golden croutons create that familiar combination of textures and flavors. It comes together quickly and works just as well for a casual dinner as it does for a larger gathering.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large bowl, small bowl, whisk, baking sheet
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients List

  • 2 large romaine hearts, chopped
  • 1 cup croutons
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large serving bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, olive oil, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Taste the dressing and adjust the lemon or pepper if needed.
  4. Add the croutons and most of the Parmesan to the lettuce.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad gradually, tossing as you go so the leaves are lightly coated rather than drenched.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan over the top.
  7. Serve immediately for the best crunch.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, pasta, or garlic bread.

What to Drink With: Lemon water, iced tea, sparkling water, or a chilled white wine.

3. Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh tomatoes and cool cucumbers make this salad especially refreshing on a warm day. A simple dressing of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs lets the vegetables remain the stars. It’s colorful, crisp, and requires almost no cooking, which makes it perfect for busy meals.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Cutting board, knife, large bowl
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients List

  • 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cucumbers, sliced
  • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash the tomatoes and cucumbers thoroughly.
  2. Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons.
  3. Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the vegetables.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is coated.
  6. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  7. Let the salad rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the flavors can mingle.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, kebabs, roasted fish, burgers, or pita bread.

What to Drink With: Lemon water, cucumber water, iced tea, or sparkling water.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness while giving the edges those delicious browned, caramelized bits. This flexible side is a great way to put several vegetables on one pan and let the oven do most of the work. It’s colorful, hearty, and easy to customize.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, knife, large bowl
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients List

  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Cut all vegetables into similarly sized pieces so they cook evenly.
  3. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
  4. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then toss thoroughly.
  5. Spread the vegetables across a large baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning the vegetables halfway through cooking.
  7. Remove when the vegetables are tender and the edges are browned.

What to Serve With: Roast chicken, pork chops, steak, salmon, or rice.

What to Drink With: Iced tea, sparkling water, lemonade, or a dry white wine.

5. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries bring a little sweetness and plenty of color to the table. When baked properly, they develop lightly crisp edges while remaining tender inside. A touch of seasoning keeps them savory enough to pair with burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Baking sheet, knife, large bowl
No. of ingredients: 6

Ingredients List

  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into evenly sized fries.
  3. Place them in a bowl and toss with olive oil.
  4. Add paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly seasoned.
  5. Arrange the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, leaving space between them.
  6. Bake for about 15 minutes, then carefully flip them.
  7. Continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the edges are browned and the fries are tender.
  8. Serve immediately for the best texture.

What to Serve With: Burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, pulled pork, or grilled chicken.

What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or a cold fruit drink.

6. Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw is one of those sides that somehow makes sandwiches, barbecue, and fried foods taste even better. The combination of crunchy cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing gives every bite a refreshing contrast. Making it ahead also gives the flavors time to develop.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large bowl, small bowl, whisk
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients List

  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place the shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables.
  4. Toss thoroughly until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Stir once more just before bringing it to the table.

What to Serve With: BBQ chicken, pulled pork, burgers, fried chicken, or hot dogs.

What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, cola, or sparkling water.

7. Pickles

Homemade refrigerator pickles are surprisingly simple and bring a bright, tangy crunch to almost any meal. They don’t require canning equipment or complicated techniques. After a short rest in the refrigerator, the cucumbers take on a delicious combination of vinegar, garlic, and herbs.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Saucepan, glass jar, knife
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients List

  • 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup white vinegar
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 garlic clove, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill

Instructions

  1. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and pack them into a clean glass jar.
  2. Combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan.
  3. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
  4. Remove the liquid from the heat and add the garlic and dill.
  5. Carefully pour the warm mixture over the cucumbers until they are covered.
  6. Allow the jar to cool, then seal and refrigerate.
  7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. The flavor will become stronger after sitting overnight.

What to Serve With: Burgers, sandwiches, fried chicken, barbecue, or grilled meats.

What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, root beer, or sparkling water.

8. Potato Salad

Classic potato salad is creamy, comforting, and especially welcome at summer gatherings. Tender potatoes absorb the flavorful dressing while celery and onion add a pleasant crunch. It’s best served chilled, making it an excellent make-ahead side.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Pot, large bowl, small bowl, knife
No. of ingredients: 8

Ingredients List

  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • ¼ cup finely chopped celery
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
  2. Bring to a boil and cook for 10–15 minutes, until fork-tender but not falling apart.
  3. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool.
  4. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add the cooled potatoes, celery, onion, and chopped eggs.
  6. Fold everything together gently so the potatoes remain intact.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

What to Serve With: Grilled burgers, hot dogs, barbecue ribs, fried chicken, or grilled sausages.

What to Drink With: Sweet tea, lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water.

9. Fruit Salad

A colorful fruit salad is an easy way to add something fresh and naturally sweet to the meal. Using several different fruits gives you a mix of juicy, crisp, and tender textures. A little citrus juice keeps the fruit bright while adding a subtle tang.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large bowl, knife, cutting board
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients List

  • 1 cup strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup grapes, halved
  • 1 apple, diced
  • 1 orange, peeled and segmented
  • 1 banana, sliced
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 2 tablespoons orange or lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Wash all fresh fruit thoroughly and dry it.
  2. Slice the strawberries, halve the grapes, dice the apple, and prepare the orange and banana.
  3. Place all fruit except the banana into a large bowl.
  4. Drizzle with orange or lemon juice and gently toss.
  5. Add the banana last to help prevent it from becoming too soft.
  6. Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.

What to Serve With: Grilled meats, sandwiches, brunch dishes, pancakes, or barbecue.

What to Drink With: Orange juice, lemonade, iced tea, or fruit-infused water.

10. Onion Rings

Golden onion rings are hard to resist when they come out hot and crunchy. The onions become tender and slightly sweet beneath a crisp coating seasoned with simple pantry spices. Serve them immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for the best texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Bowls, frying pan or deep fryer, tongs
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients List

  • 1 large yellow onion
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • ¾ cup milk
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Peel the onion and cut it into thick rings. Separate the rings carefully.
  2. In one bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
  4. Dip each onion ring into the milk mixture, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned flour.
  5. Heat oil to approximately 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry the rings in small batches for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  7. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve while hot and crisp.

What to Serve With: Burgers, steak sandwiches, hot dogs, grilled chicken, or barbecue.

What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, soda, or sparkling water.

11. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is wonderfully adaptable and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a practical choice for parties and family dinners. Tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing come together for a dish that tastes even better after a little time in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian-American
Equipment: Pot, colander, large bowl
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients List

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup cucumber, chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, diced
  • ½ cup bell pepper, chopped
  • ½ cup Italian dressing
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons black olives, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process.
  3. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl.
  4. Add tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell pepper, olives, and Parmesan.
  5. Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture.
  6. Toss gently until everything is evenly combined.
  7. Sprinkle with parsley and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

What to Serve With: Grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, steak, or grilled vegetables.

What to Drink With: Lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water, or chilled white wine.

12. Baked Beans

Sweet, savory, and wonderfully comforting, baked beans are a barbecue favorite for good reason. The beans slowly absorb a rich sauce made with brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, and smoky bacon. They’re hearty enough to stand beside grilled meats without stealing the spotlight.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, baking dish, spoon
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients List

  • 4 cups canned baked beans
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • ¼ cup diced onion
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the chopped bacon in a skillet until lightly crisp. Remove excess grease if necessary.
  3. Add the onion and cook for several minutes until softened.
  4. Combine the beans, bacon, onion, brown sugar, ketchup, mustard, and pepper in a baking dish.
  5. Stir gently until everything is well mixed.
  6. Bake uncovered for about 40–45 minutes.
  7. Stir once during cooking and serve hot when the sauce is thick and bubbling.

What to Serve With: Burgers, ribs, grilled chicken, sausages, or pulled pork.

What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, root beer, or sparkling water.

13. Corn on the Cob

Fresh corn on the cob needs very little to make it delicious. Boiling the ears until tender and finishing them with butter, salt, and a little pepper keeps the preparation simple while letting the sweet corn shine. It’s an easy side for practically any summer meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Large pot, tongs
No. of ingredients: 4

Ingredients List

  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn.
  2. Bring the water to a boil.
  3. Carefully add the corn and cook for about 6–8 minutes, until tender.
  4. Remove the ears with tongs and allow excess water to drain.
  5. Spread each ear with butter while it is still hot.
  6. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
  7. Serve immediately.

What to Serve With: Grilled steak, burgers, barbecue chicken, ribs, or grilled seafood.

What to Drink With: Lemonade, iced tea, lime water, or sparkling water.

14. Chips and Dip

Few snacks disappear faster than a bowl of crunchy chips sitting beside a creamy, flavorful dip. This easy version combines sour cream, cream cheese, herbs, and seasonings for a smooth dip that takes only minutes to prepare. It’s ideal for casual gatherings, game nights, or a quick appetizer.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing bowl, hand mixer or spoon
No. of ingredients: 7

Ingredients List

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 bag tortilla or potato chips

Instructions

  1. Place the softened cream cheese in a bowl and mix until smooth.
  2. Add sour cream and mayonnaise, stirring until creamy.
  3. Mix in parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if desired.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
  6. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl.
  7. Arrange the chips around it and serve chilled.

What to Serve With: Burgers, sandwiches, wings, tacos, or a vegetable platter.

What to Drink With: Iced tea, lemonade, soda, sparkling water, or a cold fruit punch.

15. Vegetable Tray

A colorful vegetable tray is one of the easiest ways to add freshness and crunch to a gathering. Different shapes, colors, and textures make it visually appealing, while a creamy dip gives the vegetables a flavorful finishing touch. You can easily adjust the selection according to what you have available.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Cutting board, knife, serving platter, small bowl
No. of ingredients: 9

Ingredients List

  • 2 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
  • 2 celery stalks, cut into sticks
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • ½ cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly and dry them before preparing.
  2. Peel and cut the carrots into manageable sticks.
  3. Slice the celery, cucumber, and bell pepper into pieces of similar size.
  4. Separate the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets.
  5. Arrange the vegetables on a large serving platter, grouping each type together.
  6. Place the cherry tomatoes throughout the platter for additional color.
  7. Spoon the ranch dressing into a small bowl and place it in the center.
  8. Sprinkle the vegetables lightly with fresh parsley.
  9. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

What to Serve With: Sandwiches, burgers, grilled meats, wings, chips and dip, or party appetizers.

What to Drink With: Sparkling water, lemonade, iced tea, cucumber water, or fresh fruit punch.

Related posts:

15 Healthy Breakfast Recipes to Kickstart Your Day 15 Vegan Recipes for a Flavor-Packed, Compassionate Diet 11 Fall Meals to Make Every Dinner a Delight 15 Smoked Sausage Recipes: Easy, Flavorful Meals for Every Day 15 Easy Crockpot Recipes with Few Ingredients for Busy Weeknights | Simple Family Meals Everyone Loves 15 Healthy Kale Soup Recipes for Easy, Nourishing, and Flavor-Packed Homemade Meals 15 Fresh and Easy Summer Soup Recipes for Light and Healthy Meals 15 Best Side Dishes for Enchiladas Everyone Will Enjoy