Let me tell you, air fryer ham is one of those recipes that’ll make you feel like a kitchen genius with almost zero effort. I stumbled onto this method one lazy Sunday when I wanted something quick, crispy, and delicious—without heating up the whole kitchen. And wow, did it deliver! In just minutes, those ham slices turn golden and slightly caramelized on the edges, with a juicy center that’s packed with flavor. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to fuss. Trust me, once you try air fryer ham, you’ll wonder why you ever cooked it any other way.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Ham Recipe
Listen, I’m not exaggerating when I say this recipe checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s my go-to:
- Crazy fast – Dinner’s ready in under 15 minutes, start to finish
- Zero mess – Just one quick wipe of the air fryer basket and you’re done
- Perfect texture – Crispy edges with juicy, tender centers every single time
- Effortless flavor – A handful of pantry spices transforms basic ham into something special
- Weeknight lifesaver – Works with thick slices or thin steaks, whatever you’ve got
Seriously, it’s so good my kids think I’ve been secretly slaving over the stove.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Ham Slices
Here’s the beautiful part – you probably have most of this in your kitchen right now! The magic happens with just a few simple ingredients:
- 4 ham slices or steaks (about 1/2 inch thick – this thickness gives you that perfect crisp outside/juicy inside combo)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (the glue that makes all those delicious spices stick)
- 1 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (my secret flavor booster)
- 1 tsp paprika (for that gorgeous golden color)
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional – I usually skip it since ham’s already salty)
See? Told you it was simple. Now let’s make some magic!
How to Cook Air Fryer Ham
Okay, let’s get down to business! Cooking ham in the air fryer is so easy you’ll laugh, but follow these steps closely for that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside result.
Preheating the Air Fryer
First rule of air fryer club: always preheat! Just like your oven needs to warm up, so does your air fryer. Trust me, skipping this step means your ham won’t get that instant sizzle we’re after. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it run empty for about 3 minutes – you’ll hear it quiet down when it’s ready.
Seasoning the Ham
While that’s heating, grab your ham slices and brush both sides lightly with olive oil – this is what makes the spices stick and gives you that gorgeous golden crust. Then sprinkle your pepper, garlic powder, paprika (and salt if using) evenly on both sides. I like to press the spices gently into the meat so nothing falls off!
Cooking Time and Temperature
Now the fun part! Lay your slices in a single layer – no stacking! Cook at 375°F for 3-4 minutes, then flip them using tongs (careful, they’re hot!). Give them another 3-4 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and slightly crispy at the edges. Thicker cuts? Add an extra minute per side. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen smells like heaven.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Ham
Here are my hard-earned tricks for ham that’ll make you look like a pro:
- Thickness matters – Add 1-2 minutes per side for thicker cuts, reduce time for thin slices
- Glaze game strong – Brush with honey or maple syrup in the last 2 minutes for sticky-sweet perfection
- Don’t crowd the basket – Cook in batches if needed for maximum crispiness
- Rest time – Let slices sit 2 minutes before serving (I know, the wait kills me too!)
- Watch closely – All air fryers run slightly different, so peek at the 6-minute mark
Bonus: Leftovers make killer breakfast sandwiches – just saying!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Ham
Oh, the possibilities! My favorite way to serve air fryer ham is with a big scoop of creamy mashed potatoes – that crispy-salty ham with smooth potatoes? Chef’s kiss! For lighter meals, pair it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple arugula salad. Breakfast lovers, lay a slice over fluffy scrambled eggs or tuck it into warm biscuits – pure comfort on a plate!
Storing and Reheating Leftover Ham
Here’s the good news – this ham tastes almost as good the next day! Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes – just enough to bring back that crispy magic. Microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose that perfect texture (trust me, it’s worth the extra minute to use the air fryer!).
Air Fryer Ham Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on what you’re getting in each delicious slice (remember, these are estimates): About 180 calories, 22g protein, and just 2g carbs per serving. The sodium’s about 800mg – ham’s naturally salty, so I usually skip adding extra salt!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Ham
Can I use frozen ham? Yes, but thaw it first! Frozen ham won’t crisp up properly and might cook unevenly. Pop it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
How do I prevent dryness? Don’t overcook it! Stick to 6-8 minutes total, flipping halfway. The olive oil also helps lock in moisture. If you’re worried, brush on a little extra oil before cooking.
What if I don’t have all the spices? No sweat! Just use what you’ve got – even just olive oil and pepper works wonders. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings too!
Can I make this in a regular oven? Absolutely, but it won’t get as crispy. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping once. The air fryer’s magic is in that quick, intense heat! For more on the science behind air frying, check out Food Network’s explanation.
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Irresistible Air Fryer Ham Slices Ready in 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Easy and quick air fryer ham slices or steaks for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 ham slices or steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Brush both sides of the ham slices with olive oil.
- Season with black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt (if using).
- Place the ham slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
- Remove and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on thickness of ham.
- Use pre-cooked ham for best results.
- Add honey or brown sugar glaze for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American