If you love the smoky, savory taste of ham but want a quicker and easier way to cook it, the air fryer is your best friend! This Ham Steak in Air Fryer recipe is a perfect combination of convenience and deliciousness. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will leave you with a tender, flavorful ham steak with minimal effort.
One of the things I love about using an air fryer for this dish is how quickly it cooks. With a crispy outer layer and a juicy, tender inside, it’s the perfect way to get that deliciously caramelized finish without standing over a hot stove. And let’s not forget how easy it is to clean up after! All you need are a few simple ingredients, and you’ll be enjoying this hearty meal in no time.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Ham Steak: A thick-cut slice of ham is perfect for this recipe. You’ll want a good, quality ham steak, preferably one that’s pre-cooked to ensure a tender, juicy result. Ham steak is already flavorful, and the air fryer will caramelize the edges, adding even more depth to the flavor.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps crisp up the ham steak in the air fryer and ensures that the seasonings adhere perfectly. You can also use any cooking spray if you prefer a lighter option.
Brown Sugar: Adding a little brown sugar brings out the sweetness in the ham while helping create a caramelized glaze. It’s an essential ingredient for that perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Garlic Powder: This adds a rich, savory flavor to the ham steak. Garlic powder pairs well with the sweetness of the brown sugar and the smoky flavor of the ham.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides a little heat and an extra layer of flavor to complement the sweetness of the sugar and the saltiness of the ham.
Honey: A drizzle of honey brings in more sweetness and adds to the glaze that forms on the ham. It’s an optional but highly recommended ingredient for a sweet and sticky finish.
Ingredients List
- 1 ham steak (approximately 1 lb)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
How to Make Ham Steak in Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the Ham Steak
Start by prepping your ham steak. If it’s not already sliced, slice it to about 1-inch thick. Pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help it crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season the Ham Steak
Brush both sides of the ham steak with olive oil. Sprinkle the garlic powder, black pepper, and brown sugar evenly over both sides. If you like, drizzle a little honey on top to bring extra sweetness and a glossy finish to the dish.
Step 3: Air Fry the Ham Steak
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the ham steak in the air fryer basket, ensuring that it’s not overlapping with other items. Air fry for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The ham should be nicely browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 4: Serve
Once the ham steak is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use a high-quality ham steak: The flavor of your ham steak is crucial to the success of this dish. Opt for a good-quality, pre-cooked ham steak for the best results.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on how sweet you like your ham, you can add more or less brown sugar or honey. Feel free to experiment!
- Serve with sides: This ham steak pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad.
- Keep an eye on the ham: Since air fryers can vary, make sure to check on the ham steak towards the end of the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
FAQs
Can I cook frozen ham steak in the air fryer? Yes, you can! If your ham steak is frozen, you may need to increase the cooking time by about 5–10 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness before serving.
Can I add a glaze to the ham steak? Absolutely! If you’d like a sweet glaze, consider adding a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and a bit of mustard or Dijon sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover ham steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to bring back its crispy texture.
Can I use other seasonings? Yes, feel free to get creative! You can add paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a little Dijon mustard to change up the flavors.
Enjoy this simple and delicious Ham Steak in Air Fryer recipe, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family for a fast, satisfying meal!