Air Fryer Ham is an easy and delicious way to prepare a juicy, flavourful ham with a beautifully caramelised outside. Whether you’re cooking a small ham for a family dinner or preparing a festive meal, the air fryer helps save time while keeping the meat tender. With a simple honey and brown sugar glaze, this recipe is perfect for Easter, Christmas, Sunday dinner, or any special occasion.
Quick Look At This Recipe
- Recipe: Air Fryer Ham
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25–45 minutes, depending on the size and type of ham
- Total Time: Approximately 35–55 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Cooking Temperature: 320°F (160°C)
- Main Ingredients: Ham, butter, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder
- Cooking Method: Air frying
- Difficulty: Easy
Note: These timings are estimates for a small, fully cooked ham. Cooking time depends on the ham’s weight, shape, starting temperature, and your air fryer model. Always check the centre with a food thermometer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Convenient
Cooking ham in the air fryer is a convenient alternative to heating a large oven. It works especially well for a smaller joint when you’re preparing dinner for a few people or making a holiday meal with limited oven space.
Juicy and Tender Inside
Using a moderate temperature and a little liquid or glaze helps prevent the ham from drying out. Covering it loosely with foil for part of the cooking time can also help retain moisture, provided the foil is secured and used according to your air fryer’s instructions.
Sweet and Savoury Glaze
The combination of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and garlic creates a delicious balance of sweetness and savoury flavour. As the glaze heats, it coats the outside of the ham and develops a glossy finish.
Perfect for Special Occasions
Air fryer ham makes an excellent centrepiece for Easter, Christmas, Sunday lunch, or a family gathering. Serve it with roasted potatoes, vegetables, and your favourite sides for a satisfying meal.
Great for Leftovers
Leftover ham is incredibly versatile. Use it in sandwiches, omelettes, salads, pasta dishes, fried rice, or breakfast wraps. Preparing a ham joint can give you several easy meals throughout the week.
Recipe Ingredients
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to make this delicious air fryer ham.
For the Ham
- 1 small fully cooked ham joint, approximately 2–3 pounds (900 g–1.4 kg)
- ¼ cup water, apple juice, or pineapple juice, if suitable for your cooking dish
Choose a ham that fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket or cooking tray, with enough space for hot air to circulate. A boneless ham is often easier to fit and slice.
For the Honey Brown Sugar Glaze
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of ground cloves (optional)
Ingredient notes:
- Ham: This recipe is designed for a fully cooked ham joint, not raw fresh pork. Check the packaging instructions to confirm whether your ham is ready to eat or requires cooking.
- Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the glaze caramelise.
- Honey: Gives the glaze a smooth texture and glossy finish.
- Dijon mustard: Balances the sweetness with a little tang.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps the glaze coat the ham.
- Juice or water: A small amount in an appropriate heatproof dish can help create moisture around the ham.
Variations
One of the best things about air fryer ham is how easily you can change the glaze to suit your taste.
1. Honey Mustard Ham
For a tangier flavour, increase the Dijon mustard to 2 tablespoons and reduce the brown sugar slightly. This variation is delicious with roast potatoes and green vegetables.
2. Maple Glazed Ham
Replace the honey with pure maple syrup. Combine it with brown sugar, mustard, and a little black pepper for a sweet, rich glaze.
3. Pineapple Glazed Ham
Use pineapple juice instead of water and add a little extra to the glaze. Pineapple pairs beautifully with ham, creating a sweet and fruity flavour.
4. Garlic and Herb Ham
For a less sweet option, reduce or omit the brown sugar and honey. Mix melted butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper, then brush it over the ham.
5. Spicy Glazed Ham
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of chilli flakes to the honey glaze. The gentle heat balances the sweetness without overpowering the ham.
6. Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Ham
Add a small pinch of ground cinnamon and cloves to the glaze for a warm, festive flavour. This variation works particularly well for Christmas dinner.
7. Orange Glazed Ham
Replace some of the honey with orange marmalade or add a tablespoon of fresh orange juice and a little orange zest. The citrus flavour complements the salty, savoury ham.
How to Cook Ham in the Air Fryer
Follow these simple steps to make tender air fryer ham with a sweet, caramelised glaze.
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
Remove the ham from its packaging and check the label to confirm whether it is fully cooked. If it has a thick rind or plastic covering, remove anything that is not intended to be cooked.
Pat the ham dry with paper towels. If desired, lightly score the surface in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts without cutting too deeply into the meat. This gives the glaze more places to collect.
If your ham is spiral-cut, take extra care because the slices can dry out more quickly than an intact joint.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, melted butter, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional ground cloves.
Stir until the ingredients are well mixed. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the ham but easy to brush over the surface.
Set aside a clean portion of glaze for the final coating. Do not reuse glaze that has been in contact with raw meat or utensils contaminated by raw meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for approximately 3 minutes if your model recommends preheating.
Check the dimensions of your basket before cooking. The ham should fit without touching the heating element, and the basket or tray should not be overloaded.
Step 4: Prepare the Ham for Cooking
Place the ham in an air fryer-safe heatproof dish or suitable tray if your model allows one. Add the water or juice to the dish if using it, rather than pouring liquid directly into the appliance’s electrical components.
Brush a thin layer of glaze over the ham. For a large or irregularly shaped joint, position it so the thickest part is exposed to the circulating air.
If you use foil to cover the ham, follow your air fryer manufacturer’s instructions. Secure the foil firmly so it cannot lift into the heating element, and never let it block the air circulation.
Step 5: Air Fry the Ham
Cook at 320°F (160°C) for approximately 25–45 minutes for a small, fully cooked 2–3-pound ham joint. The exact time will depend on its shape, thickness, and starting temperature.
For a ham that is prone to drying out, keep it loosely covered for the first part of cooking if your air fryer permits this. Remove the cover near the end to allow the outside to develop colour.
Avoid relying on time alone. Check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham, away from the bone if there is one.
Step 6: Add More Glaze
During the final 5–10 minutes, brush the ham with another layer of glaze.
Cook uncovered until the glaze looks glossy and lightly caramelised. Watch it closely because honey and brown sugar can burn if exposed to high heat for too long.
If the outside is browning before the centre is hot, lower the temperature and continue cooking until the required internal temperature is reached.
Step 7: Check the Internal Temperature
For a commercially cooked ham that is being reheated, follow the package instructions. As a general food-safety guideline, reheat cooked ham to 165°F (74°C) when reheating leftovers or when the product instructions call for reheating.
If the ham is uncooked or labelled as requiring cooking, it must be cooked according to its specific instructions; fresh raw pork requires a different time and temperature approach from a fully cooked ham.
Use a food thermometer to check the centre rather than judging doneness by colour alone.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the ham carefully from the air fryer and let it rest for approximately 5–10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices settle and makes the ham easier to carve.
Slice against the grain where possible and spoon any suitable glaze from the cooking dish over the slices. Serve warm with your favourite side dishes.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
Choose the Right Size Ham
Measure your air fryer basket before buying or preparing the ham. A smaller boneless joint is often the easiest choice. There must be enough room for air to circulate, and the meat must not touch the heating element.
Check Whether Your Ham Is Already Cooked
Some hams are fully cooked and only need reheating, while others are sold uncooked. Always read the packaging. This recipe’s timing is intended for a small, fully cooked ham joint.
Avoid Overcooking
Ham can become dry if it is cooked for too long, especially if it is spiral-cut. Begin checking the temperature before the estimated cooking time ends and adjust the time to suit the thickness of your joint.
Apply the Glaze Near the End
Sugar-based glazes can burn at high temperatures. Brush on some glaze before cooking if desired, then add another layer near the end to achieve a glossy finish without excessive browning.
Use a Suitable Heatproof Dish
A small oven-safe dish can catch the juices and help keep the ham moist. Make sure it is approved for your air fryer and does not block airflow.
Let the Ham Rest Before Slicing
Resting for 5–10 minutes helps the juices settle. Use a sharp knife and slice evenly for the best presentation.
Keep Leftovers Safe
Refrigerate leftover ham within 2 hours of cooking. Store it in a covered container and use within 3–4 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Serving Ideas & Suggestions
Air fryer ham pairs well with a wide range of side dishes, making it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Classic Roast Dinner
Serve slices of glazed ham with roast potatoes, carrots, peas, green beans, and gravy. Add Yorkshire puddings if you want a traditional British-style roast dinner.
With Air Fryer Vegetables
Prepare a quick side of air fryer broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots. Cook the vegetables separately so you can give them the correct temperature and cooking time.
With Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect match for sweet and savoury ham. Add butter, black pepper, and a little garlic for extra flavour.
For Easter or Christmas
Arrange the sliced ham on a serving platter with roasted vegetables, potatoes, cranberry sauce, mustard, or apple sauce. A few fresh herbs can make the platter look festive.
In Sandwiches and Wraps
Use leftover slices in sandwiches with mustard, cheese, lettuce, or pickles. Ham also works well in wraps with salad and a creamy dressing.
For Breakfast or Brunch
Serve ham alongside scrambled eggs, fried eggs, hash browns, or an omelette. Chopped leftover ham can also be added to a breakfast casserole or breakfast muffins.
With a Fresh Salad
Balance the richness of the ham with a green salad, sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. A crunchy apple and cabbage slaw is another excellent choice.
Recipe FAQs
Can you cook ham in an air fryer?
Yes! An air fryer is a convenient way to reheat or cook a suitably sized ham joint. It works particularly well for small, fully cooked hams that fit comfortably in the basket. Always follow the product instructions and check the internal temperature.
How long does it take to cook ham in the air fryer?
A small, fully cooked 2–3-pound ham joint may take approximately 25–45 minutes at 320°F (160°C). Larger or thicker joints may take longer. These are estimates only; use a food thermometer and the package instructions to determine when it is ready.
What temperature should I use for air fryer ham?
For a small, fully cooked ham that needs reheating, 320°F (160°C) is a useful starting point. A moderate temperature helps warm the centre without burning the glaze too quickly. Follow the packaging guidance for the specific product.
Can I cook a spiral ham in the air fryer?
Yes, provided it fits safely inside the appliance. Spiral-cut ham can dry out faster because more of its surface is exposed. Keep the temperature moderate, consider covering it for part of the cooking time if permitted, and check it frequently.
Should I cover ham when cooking it in the air fryer?
Covering the ham loosely for part of the cooking time can help retain moisture, but only if your air fryer manufacturer permits foil and you can secure it safely. Remove the cover near the end to let the glaze caramelise. Never allow foil to contact the heating element or block airflow.
How do I stop the glaze from burning?
Use a moderate temperature and apply most of the glaze during the final 5–10 minutes. Watch the ham closely, as honey and brown sugar can darken quickly. If it is browning too fast, lower the temperature.
Do I need to add water to the air fryer?
No, not directly into the air fryer drawer unless the manufacturer specifically permits it. If you want extra moisture, add a little water or juice to an appropriate heatproof dish beneath or around the ham, ensuring the dish is safe for your model and does not obstruct airflow.
How do I know when the ham is ready?
Check the internal temperature with a food thermometer inserted into the thickest part. For cooked ham being reheated, 165°F (74°C) is a general safe reheating target. If the ham is uncooked, follow its specific cooking instructions and the appropriate food-safety temperature guidance.
Can I make air fryer ham without honey?
Yes. Replace the honey with maple syrup, or make a savoury glaze using butter, garlic, herbs, and mustard. You can also omit the glaze and simply season the ham, following the product instructions.
How should I store leftover air fryer ham?
Allow the ham to cool briefly and refrigerate it in an airtight container within 2 hours. Use refrigerated leftovers within 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced portions in freezer-safe packaging.
How do I reheat leftover ham in the air fryer?
Place the slices in a single layer and reheat at 320–350°F (160–175°C) for a few minutes, checking frequently. Thicker pieces may need longer. Reheat leftovers until they reach 165°F (74°C), and avoid cooking them longer than necessary.
Can I freeze cooked ham?
Yes. Slice or portion the ham, wrap it securely, and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. For the best quality, use frozen cooked ham within 1–2 months, although it can remain safe longer when continuously frozen. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What is the best ham to use in an air fryer?
A small boneless, fully cooked ham joint is usually the easiest option. Choose one that fits your basket with space around it. Avoid using a joint that is too large or too close to the heating element.
Can I cook raw ham in the air fryer?
Raw or uncooked ham requires different handling and cooking times from a fully cooked joint. Check the product label and use a reliable food thermometer to confirm it reaches the appropriate safe internal temperature. Do not use the timing in this recipe as a guide for raw ham.
PrintAir Fryer Ham
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Pork
- Cuisine: AmericanPork
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless spiral sliced ham
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dry parsley
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Unpack the ham and rinse under cold water.
- Place on a plate and pat dry with paper towels.
- Place ham in a piece of tin foil large enough to fully wrap the ham. You may need two pieces, overlaid in an X shape, with the ham in the center.
- Bring the foil up around the sides of the ham, leaving the top open. Place ham in the air fryer basket.
- In a medium size, microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, ground mustard, garlic powder, dry parsley & ground clove. Mix until combined.
- Add in the honey, orange juice, and Dijon mustard and mix well to combine..
- Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir, and warm for another 30 seconds.
- Brush approximately a quarter of the mixture over the ham. Set the mixture aside.
- Bring the foil up and over the ham to fully wrap it. Make sure the foil isn’t touching the heating element in the air fryer.
- Air fry for 15 minutes at 320 degrees.
- Open the foil and brush approximately ¼ of the glaze on the ham. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes at 320 degrees.
- Repeat step 11 and this time cook at 320 degrees for 10 minutes.
- Brush all the remaining seasoning on the ham and cook uncovered at 350 degrees F for 5 minutes. This will caramelize the glaze. The internal temperature for a cooked ham should be approximately 140 degrees.
- Serve warm.
