Ninja Air Fryer Ham Steak Recipe with a Sweet and Savory Glaze
Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a restaurant-quality ham steak, cooked to perfection in your Ninja air fryer? This recipe delivers juicy, tender ham with a mouthwatering glaze that will impress your family and friends. Forget lengthy oven baking times; this method guarantees a flavorful, crispy-edged ham steak in a fraction of the time!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 (1-inch thick) ham steak: Choose a bone-in or boneless ham steak, your preference!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For that beautiful golden-brown sear.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Provides sweetness and depth to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the mustard's sharpness with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle fruity acidity.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves: A warm spice that complements the ham beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic pairing for ham, adding warmth and complexity.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season generously!
Preparing the Glaze:
Before we even think about the ham, let's whip up that amazing glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, cloves, and cinnamon. Set aside. This mixture will thicken slightly as it sits, adding even more flavor to your ham.
Cooking the Ham Steak in Your Ninja Air Fryer:
- Preheat: Preheat your Ninja air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking.
- Prepare the Ham: Pat the ham steak dry with paper towels. This helps the ham crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Oil and Sear: Lightly brush the ham steak with olive oil. This adds moisture and contributes to a delicious golden-brown finish.
- Air Fry: Place the ham steak in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your ham steak and your air fryer model. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness!
- Glaze and Finish: Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, brush generously with the prepared glaze. Return to the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly. This step will create that irresistible glossy finish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Side Dishes: This air fryer ham steak pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- Elegant Presentation: Serve the glazed ham steak sliced, showcasing the beautiful glaze and tender meat.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Air Fryer Ham Steak Success:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Ensure your ham steak has enough space to cook evenly. If you have a larger ham steak, you may need to cook it in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the ham steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your ham steak and your air fryer model. Always check the internal temperature to ensure doneness.
This Ninja air fryer ham steak recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. The sweet and savory glaze adds a touch of elegance, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!
