Can You Cook a Ham in the Air Fryer Discover How

Yes, you can cook a ham in the air fryer—and it’s a game-changer for juicy, caramelized results in under an hour. This method locks in moisture while crisping the glaze to perfection, making it ideal for quick holiday meals or weeknight dinners. Say goodbye to oven clutter and hello to flavor!

Key Takeaways

• Cook ham in air fryer: Yes, it’s quick, easy, and delivers juicy results.
• Preheat for best results: Always preheat to ensure even cooking and crisp edges.
• Score the fat layer: Helps render fat and absorb glaze flavors deeper.
• Use a glaze: Apply mid-cook for caramelized, flavorful crust without burning.
• Monitor internal temperature: Cook to 140°F for safe, tender ham every time.
• Smaller cuts work best: Choose ham under 4 lbs for ideal air fryer fit.

Why You Should Consider Cooking Ham in Your Air Fryer

Imagine this: It’s a busy holiday morning. The house is buzzing with family, the coffee’s brewing, and the oven is already packed with side dishes. You’ve got a gorgeous ham waiting to shine at the center of the table, but the oven is full. Enter the air fryer—your trusty kitchen sidekick that’s been great for crisping fries and reheating leftovers. But can you cook a ham in the air fryer? Spoiler: Yes, you absolutely can, and it might just become your new go-to method.

Ham is one of those classic comfort foods—sweet, savory, and perfect for gatherings. But traditional baking can be time-consuming and space-consuming, especially when you’re juggling multiple dishes. That’s where the air fryer comes in. It’s compact, fast, and surprisingly versatile. I first tried cooking ham in my air fryer out of necessity during a Thanksgiving crunch. To my surprise, the results were better than expected: juicy, flavorful, and with a beautifully caramelized glaze. Since then, I’ve experimented with different cuts, glazes, and techniques—and I’m here to share what works (and what doesn’t).

Understanding How the Air Fryer Works for Ham

How Air Fryers Cook Differently Than Ovens

Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist. Unlike ovens, which heat the entire cavity, air fryers focus hot air directly on the food. This means faster cooking times and more even browning—ideal for ham, which benefits from a crisp glaze and even heating.

Think of it like a mini convection oven on steroids. The fan moves hot air at high speed, ensuring every side of your ham gets attention. This is especially useful for ham because the exterior can develop that delicious, sticky glaze while the inside stays tender.

Why Ham Is a Great Candidate for Air Frying

Ham is pre-cooked (usually smoked or cured), so you’re not starting from raw. That means you’re just reheating and glazing—perfect for the air fryer’s fast, high-heat environment. Unlike chicken or steak, ham doesn’t need to reach a certain internal temperature for safety. Instead, the goal is to heat it through while enhancing flavor and texture.

Another advantage? Size. A small to medium ham (3–5 pounds) fits perfectly in most air fryers. Even if you have a larger model, you can still cook ham in halves or slices. I once cooked a 4-pound spiral ham in my 5.8-quart air fryer with room to spare for a few pineapple rings on top.

Common Concerns and How to Address Them

• Will it dry out? No—if you monitor time and baste occasionally. The air fryer’s quick cooking helps retain moisture.
• Can I fit a whole ham? Yes, but check your air fryer’s dimensions. A 6-quart model can typically handle a 4–5 lb ham. For larger hams, slice or cut in half.
• Does it taste different? Slightly. The air fryer gives a more caramelized, slightly crisp exterior compared to the softer oven-baked version. It’s a matter of preference—I love the extra crunch!

Choosing the Right Ham for Air Frying

Pre-Cooked vs. Raw Ham: What You Need to Know

Most store-bought hams are fully cooked and labeled “ready to eat.” These are ideal for air frying because you’re simply reheating and glazing. Examples include:

• Spiral-cut ham (pre-sliced, great for even cooking)
• Bone-in ham (adds flavor, but takes longer to heat)
• Boneless ham (easier to fit, faster cooking)

Raw ham is rare and requires thorough cooking to a safe internal temperature (145°F). If you have raw ham, I’d recommend the oven for more control. But for most home cooks, pre-cooked ham is the way to go.

Size Matters: Matching Ham to Air Fryer Capacity

Before buying ham, check your air fryer’s basket dimensions. Most standard air fryers (4–6 quarts) can handle:

• 3–4 lb ham (perfect for 2–4 people)
• Up to 5 lb ham (if it’s boneless or spiral-cut)

I learned this the hard way when I tried to cram a 6-pound ham into my 5.8-quart fryer. It fit, but the lid didn’t close properly, and the glaze dripped everywhere. Now, I measure my ham before buying—or buy pre-cut halves.

Spiral-Cut vs. Whole Ham: Pros and Cons

Ham Type	Pros	Cons
Spiral-cut	Even cooking, easy to serve, glaze seeps into slices	Can dry out if overcooked, harder to glaze evenly
Whole (uncut)	Juicier, easier to baste, more control over glaze	Longer cook time, may not fit well in smaller air fryers

For first-timers, I recommend spiral-cut. It’s forgiving and cooks faster. Just baste every 10–15 minutes to keep it moist.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Ham in the Air Fryer

Prepping Your Ham: Trimming, Scoring, and Glazing

Start by removing any packaging and excess fat (leave a thin layer for flavor). For whole hams, score the fat in a diamond pattern—this helps the glaze caramelize and look restaurant-worthy. I use a sharp knife and cut about 1/4-inch deep, spacing lines 1 inch apart.

For glaze, I love a simple mix of:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Whisk it together and set aside. You’ll apply it during cooking, not before (to avoid burning).

Setting the Right Temperature and Time

Here’s the golden rule: Low and slow is better than high and fast. High heat can burn the glaze before the ham heats through. I use:

• 320°F (160°C) for most hams
• 300°F (150°C) for spiral-cut (to prevent drying)

Cooking time depends on weight:

• 3 lb ham: 20–25 minutes
• 4 lb ham: 30–35 minutes
• 5 lb ham: 40–45 minutes

Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked ham.

Basting and Glazing for Maximum Flavor

Basting is key. Every 10–15 minutes, open the air fryer (don’t worry—it won’t lose much heat) and brush on glaze. For spiral hams, I tilt the ham slightly to let the glaze drip between slices. Pro tip: Line the basket with foil or parchment paper (with holes for airflow) to catch drips and make cleanup easier.

During the last 5 minutes, crank the heat to 350°F (175°C) to caramelize the glaze. Watch closely—sugar burns fast!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Ham

How to Prevent Drying Out

Ham can dry out if overcooked. To avoid this:

• Use a meat thermometer (my #1 tool).
• Baste frequently—this adds moisture and flavor.
• Tent with foil if the glaze browns too quickly.

Once, I got distracted and left my ham in for 10 extra minutes. The glaze turned black, and the edges were dry. Lesson learned: Set a timer!

Creative Glaze Ideas (Beyond Brown Sugar)

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Some of my favorite glazes:

• Spicy: Brown sugar + sriracha + lime zest
• Fruity: Pineapple juice + apricot jam + ginger
• Smoky: Maple syrup + liquid smoke + cayenne

For a holiday twist, add cloves to the glaze or stick them into the ham before cooking.

Using Add-Ons: Pineapple, Cloves, and More

Classic pineapple rings? Yes, please. Place them on top of the ham during the last 10 minutes. The air fryer caramelizes them beautifully. Cloves add a warm, spicy note—just press them into the scored fat.

Want to go gourmet? Try wrapping slices in prosciutto before glazing. The air fryer crisps the prosciutto perfectly.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers need space for air to circulate. If your ham is too big, it’ll steam instead of brown. If you’re unsure, cut the ham in half. I once tried to cook a whole ham in a crowded basket—the center was cold, and the edges were overdone. Now, I measure first.

Ignoring the Thermometer

Don’t rely on time alone. Ovens and air fryers vary. A thermometer is cheap and essential. Insert it into the thickest part (avoiding the bone). If it’s not 140°F, keep cooking.

Burning the Glaze

Sugar burns at high heat. That’s why I:

• Start at 320°F
• Baste early and often
• Increase heat only at the end

If the glaze darkens too fast, tent with foil or lower the heat.

Skipping the Rest Period

Let the ham rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking. This lets juices redistribute, making it juicier when sliced. I know it’s hard to wait—especially when it smells amazing—but it’s worth it.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can (and Should) Cook Ham in the Air Fryer

So, can you cook a ham in the air fryer? Absolutely. It’s faster, more energy-efficient, and delivers delicious results. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday, a small family dinner, or just want to try something new, the air fryer is a game-changer.

The key is patience and attention. Monitor the temperature, baste regularly, and don’t rush the glaze. With a little practice, you’ll get ham that’s juicy, flavorful, and beautifully caramelized—every time.

And the best part? No more oven juggling. Your air fryer frees up space for those casseroles, rolls, and pies. Plus, cleanup is a breeze (thanks, foil liner!).

Next time you’re staring at a ham and a full oven, reach for your air fryer. Trust me—you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook a ham in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook a ham in the air fryer! It’s a quick and efficient method that delivers juicy, tender results with a perfectly caramelized exterior in under an hour.

How long does it take to cook a ham in the air fryer?

Cooking a precooked ham in the air fryer typically takes 15–20 minutes at 350°F (175°C), depending on size. For raw ham, allow 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for ham?

Preheating the air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 350°F ensures even cooking and better browning. While not mandatory, it enhances the texture and flavor of your air fryer ham.

Can you glaze a ham in the air fryer without burning it?

Yes! Apply glaze during the last 5–7 minutes of cooking to prevent burning. The air fryer’s controlled heat caramelizes the glaze beautifully without drying out the ham.

What size ham fits in an air fryer?

Most standard air fryers (5–8 quarts) can fit a ham up to 3–4 pounds. For larger hams, slice it into smaller portions or use a dual-basket air fryer for flexibility.

Is cooking ham in the air fryer healthier than baking?

Air frying uses less oil and cooks faster than conventional baking, reducing overall fat and energy use. The result is a leaner, juicier ham with fewer calories and crispier edges.