Air Fryer Spiral Ham: 1 Juicy Recipe

Air fryer spiral ham has truly changed my holiday cooking game! I used to dread cooking a large ham, fearing it would turn out dry or bland. Then, I discovered the magic of cooking spiral ham in air fryer. My first attempt yielded the most incredibly juicy and flavorful ham, with a perfectly caramelized glaze that had my whole family raving. The aroma filling my kitchen was simply divine, a sweet and savory symphony that promised a delicious meal. This method is so much faster and easier than traditional oven baking, making it my new go-to for any celebration. Let’s get this amazing ham into your air fryer!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Spiral Ham

I’ve found that this recipe is a total game-changer for a few reasons:

• It’s incredibly fast, cutting down cooking time significantly.
• You get that perfect, crispy-glazed exterior every single time.
• This is truly an easy air fryer spiral ham to make, even for beginners.
• The glaze gets wonderfully caramelized without burning.
• It results in a wonderfully juicy spiral ham air fryer that’s never dry.
• Cleanup is a breeze compared to traditional oven methods.
• It frees up your oven for other side dishes.
• The flavor is consistently amazing, making it perfect for holidays or any special meal.

Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Spiral Ham

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a fantastic air fryer glazed spiral ham.

• 1 (3-4 pound) fully cooked spiral sliced ham – choose a good quality ham for the best flavor.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – this is essential for that beautiful, caramelized glaze.
• 1/4 cup honey – adds sweetness and helps the glaze stick.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – provides a lovely tang that balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a depth of savory flavor to the glaze.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – a classic spice that pairs wonderfully with ham.
• Optional: Pineapple rings, maraschino cherries for garnish – for that traditional festive look!

How to Cook Spiral Ham in the Air Fryer

Let’s get that ham cooking! This spiral ham air fryer recipe is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you ever did it differently. I always start by preheating my air fryer – it makes such a difference in how evenly everything cooks. For this recipe, we’re going to aim for 350°F (175°C).

1. Step 1: Get your air fryer nice and hot by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, let’s make that delicious glaze.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ground cloves. This combination creates a wonderfully sweet and tangy glaze that will make your ham sing.
3. Step 3: Carefully place your spiral ham into the air fryer basket. If possible, position it cut-side down. This helps keep the ham moist as it cooks.
4. Step 4: Take about half of that glorious glaze you just made and brush it generously over the top and sides of the ham. You want every slice to get coated in that sweet goodness.
5. Step 5: Now, let it cook! We’re looking at about 15-20 minutes for this first round.
6. Step 6: After that initial cooking time, carefully remove the ham from the air fryer. Brush the remaining glaze all over it.
7. Step 7: Return the ham to the air fryer and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes. The goal here is to reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), and you want to see that glaze get beautifully caramelized and slightly sticky. Getting the perfect spiral ham air fryer time and temperature is key!
8. Step 8: If you’re going for that classic look, now’s the time to add your pineapple rings and maraschino cherries to the top of the ham. Let them warm up and adhere during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
9. Step 9: Once it’s done, let your air fryer spiral ham rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for locking in all those delicious juices.

Step-by-Step Air Fryer Spiral Ham Instructions

Following this air fryer spiral ham cooking guide ensures a perfect result every time. The initial glaze application helps the flavors penetrate the ham, and the second glazing ensures a beautiful, caramelized finish. Aim for that 140°F (60°C) internal temperature for safety and optimal texture. The aroma of the caramelizing glaze is just incredible as it cooks. Remember, adjusting the time slightly based on your specific air fryer and the ham’s size is always a good idea to achieve that ultimate juicy texture. For more on food safety, you can check out CDC food safety guidelines.

Pro Tips for the Best Juicy Spiral Ham Air Fryer

I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish. Understanding the benefits of air fryer spiral ham means knowing how to maximize its potential for flavor and texture.

• Always use a fully cooked spiral ham. The air fryer is for reheating and glazing, not cooking raw pork.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. A 3-4 pound ham usually fits perfectly, but check your model’s dimensions.
• If your ham has a lot of loose glaze already, you can gently wipe some off before adding your own to prevent too much excess liquid.
• Trust your thermometer! It’s the most reliable way to ensure your ham is perfectly heated through.

What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Spiral Ham?

The absolute best way to cook spiral ham in an air fryer is to use a good quality glaze and apply it in two stages. This ensures a deep caramelization and maximum flavor infusion. For more on glazes, you might find Food Network’s glaze recipes helpful.

Can I make Air Fryer Spiral Ham ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ham and glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Store the ham covered in the refrigerator and apply the glaze just before air frying. If you have questions about food storage, consult the USDA’s food storage guidelines.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Spiral Ham?

Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer; aim for 140°F. Also, don’t skip the resting period, as it allows the juices to redistribute for optimal moistness.

Best Ways to Serve Your Air Fryer Spiral Ham

Once your air fryer spiral ham is perfectly cooked and resting, you’ll want to pair it with some delicious sides. I love serving it with classic mashed potatoes and green beans, but it’s also fantastic with a sweet potato casserole. For a lighter meal or a brunch option, consider serving it as an air fryer ham steak spiral cut alongside some fluffy pancakes or a fresh fruit salad. The sweet and savory glaze on the ham complements a wide variety of flavors, making it a versatile centerpiece for any meal.

Nutrition Facts for Air Fryer Spiral Ham

Here are the approximate nutritional values for a serving of this delicious air fryer spiral ham. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and the actual numbers can vary based on the specific ham you use and how much glaze adheres.

• Serving Size: 4 oz
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Spiral Ham

Got delicious air fryer spiral ham leftovers? Lucky you! Once your ham has cooled down completely, which usually takes about an hour, you’ll want to store it properly to keep it fresh. I like to wrap any leftover ham tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container. This keeps it safe and moist in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you have a lot of ham and want to save it for later, you can freeze it! Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then foil, and pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers, the best way is to reheat it in the air fryer. This method is fantastic for bringing back that juicy texture and crispy glaze. Here’s how to reheat spiral ham in air fryer: Place slices or chunks of ham in your air fryer basket and cook at 300°F (150°C) for just 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. It’s quick, easy, and keeps your ham tasting almost as good as the first time! For more tips on reheating, check out Simply Recipes’ guide to reheating in an air fryer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Spiral Ham

What is the best spiral ham for air fryer cooking?

Honestly, any good quality, fully cooked spiral-cut ham works beautifully in the air fryer. The pre-sliced nature allows the glaze to seep in and caramelize perfectly. I’ve had great results with both bone-in and boneless varieties, so choose whichever you prefer for your meal. You can learn more about choosing ham from The Spruce Eats.

Why cook spiral ham in air fryer instead of the oven?

Cooking spiral ham in the air fryer offers several advantages! It’s significantly faster, meaning less time waiting for your delicious meal. Plus, the circulating hot air creates a wonderfully crisp and caramelized glaze that’s hard to achieve in a conventional oven without drying out the meat. It also frees up your oven for other dishes, which is a huge bonus during busy holidays.

Can I use a different glaze for my air fryer spiral ham?

Absolutely! While this honey-Dijon glaze is fantastic, feel free to get creative. Maple syrup, brown sugar and pineapple juice, or even a spicy brown sugar glaze all work wonderfully. Just ensure your glaze isn’t too watery, as it won’t caramelize as well. Adjust seasonings to your taste for a truly personalized touch. For inspiration, see our other recipes.

How do I ensure my air fryer spiral ham is moist?

The key to a moist ham is not to overcook it. Always use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). The glaze also helps create a protective, moist layer. Make sure to let the ham rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy. For more on cooking temperatures, consult Niki’s air fryer tips.

Variations of Air Fryer Spiral Ham You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different flavors and approaches. One popular variation is trying a smoked spiral ham in air fryer. You can achieve a smoky flavor by adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the glaze or by using a pre-smoked spiral ham. For those who prefer a slightly different taste profile, consider an air fryer spiral cut ham with a maple-bourbon glaze, substituting some of the honey with bourbon and a touch of maple syrup. Another idea is a spicy version, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for a little kick. You could even try a pineapple-brown sugar glaze for a tropical twist! For more cooking advice, visit our homepage.

Air Fryer Spiral Ham: 1 Juicy Recipe

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

Cook a delicious and juicy spiral ham in your air fryer for a quick and easy meal. This recipe provides simple instructions for a perfectly cooked spiral ham.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (3-4 pound) fully cooked spiral sliced ham
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Optional: Pineapple rings, maraschino cherries for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ground cloves to create the glaze.
3. Place the spiral ham in the air fryer basket, cut-side down if possible.
4. Brush about half of the glaze over the top and sides of the ham.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes.
6. Remove the ham, brush with the remaining glaze.
7. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
8. If using, place pineapple rings and cherries on top of the ham during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
9. Let the air fryer spiral ham rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Ensure your air fryer basket is large enough to accommodate the spiral ham.
• For a crispier exterior, you can increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 5 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Leftover spiral ham can be reheated in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Adjust cooking time based on the thickness and size of your spiral ham.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 oz
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

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