If you’re looking for a show-stopping main that is both effortlessly delicious and packed with flavor, this Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a tender, juicy ham glazed with a lush mixture of garlic butter, honey, and thyme, cooked to golden perfection right in your air fryer. It’s rich, aromatic, and surprisingly simple, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal from casual family dinners to special celebrations. Trust me, once you try this Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward yet incredibly flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the savory garlic bringing depth to the ham, to the honey adding a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as the glaze cooks. These essentials not only infuse the ham with layered flavors but also help achieve that irresistible golden crust you can’t wait to sink your teeth into.
- Bone-in ham (about 3 lbs): A nice size for the air fryer and perfect for juicy, even cooking.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): Fresh garlic adds a punch of savory aroma that elevates the glaze.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Butter creates a rich, luscious base that keeps the ham moist.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Brings a hint of earthy herbaceousness that complements the meat perfectly.
How to Make Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Ham
First things first, get your air fryer warmed up by setting it to 300°F (150°C). While it heats, score the surface of your ham in a classic diamond pattern. This simple step isn’t just for looks—it helps the garlic butter glaze seep deeper into the meat for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, honey, and dried thyme. This mixture is the heart and soul of the dish, blending richness, sweetness, and herbal notes into one irresistible glaze.
Step 3: Apply the First Glaze and Begin Cooking
Brush half of the freshly made garlic butter mixture generously over the scored ham. This ensures that every crevice starts soaking in those vibrant flavors right away. Then place the ham in your air fryer basket and cook it for 30 minutes. Be sure to flip the ham halfway through to ensure even cooking on all sides.
Step 4: Reapply Glaze and Finish Cooking
When the ham is flipped, brush the remaining garlic butter glaze over it. This second coating boosts the flavor and helps build that beautiful caramelized surface. Once the initial 30 minutes are up, bump the temperature up to 400°F (200°C) for the last five minutes. This high heat finishes off the ham with a crisp, golden crust that’s as stunning as it is tasty.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
After cooking, it’s essential to let your ham rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, so every bite stays moist and flavorful. Once rested, slice and prepare to wow your guests with this tender, garlicky delight!
How to Serve Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate the presentation and add a fresh note to this savory dish. Sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary not only complement the herbaceous flavors but also make your serving platter look beautifully inviting. For a pop of color and texture, sprinkle some finely chopped parsley or add thin lemon zest ribbons.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe pairs beautifully with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Consider serving with glazed carrots or a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the ham. For something more hearty, scalloped potatoes or buttery dinner rolls are excellent companions on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress even further? Serve the ham sliced atop a bed of buttery couscous or wild rice to soak up every bit of that gorgeous garlic butter drip. Alternatively, create a festive platter featuring slices of ham alongside nuts, cheeses, and seasonal fruits for an elegant appetizer spread. This recipe’s versatility makes it a star in so many culinary settings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover ham should be covered tightly and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to four days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you have more ham than you can eat within a few days, slice what you need and freeze the rest. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Frozen ham maintains decent quality for up to two months.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently to keep the ham juicy and tender. Warm slices in the oven at a low temperature (around 275°F or 135°C) covered with foil, or heat in the microwave with a damp paper towel on top to prevent drying out. This way, each bite stays as delicious as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a boneless ham for this Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe?
Absolutely! A boneless ham will work just fine. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on its size and thickness, keeping an eye on the internal temperature to ensure perfect doneness.
Is it necessary to score the ham before cooking?
Scoring the ham is highly recommended as it allows the garlic butter glaze to penetrate deeper, creating more flavorful bites and a beautiful textured crust.
Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the garlic butter glaze a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before brushing it on, as the butter may solidify when chilled.
What if my air fryer is smaller or larger than average?
For smaller air fryers, you might need to cook the ham in batches or select a smaller cut. For larger air fryers, the cooking time should remain similar, but always check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the glaze?
Definitely! While thyme pairs beautifully, you can experiment with rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a different twist that suits your palate.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe is a true gem that brings together simplicity, flavor, and convenience in one delicious package. Whether you’re preparing a festive meal or a special weekend dinner, it’s sure to impress everyone gathered around your table. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy ham!
Print
Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Air Fryer Ham with Garlic Butter recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare a juicy, bone-in ham. Coated with a rich garlic butter glaze infused with honey and thyme, the ham is cooked to perfection in an air fryer, resulting in a tender interior and a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines convenience with delicious, savory taste.
Ingredients
Ham
- 1 bone-in ham (about 3 lbs)
Garlic Butter Glaze
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and allow it to preheat thoroughly to ensure even cooking of the ham.
- Prepare the garlic butter glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, honey, and dried thyme. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated to create a flavorful glaze.
- Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the surface of the ham by making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate and adds texture.
- Apply the initial glaze: Brush half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over the surface of the ham, making sure to cover all scored areas.
- Air fry the ham: Place the ham in the air fryer basket. Cook at 300°F for 30 minutes, flipping the ham halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. When flipped, brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
- Crisp the crust: Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional five minutes. This step crisps up the exterior and gives the ham a beautiful golden crust.
- Rest and serve: Remove the ham from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the ham; since it’s precooked, the goal is to heat through and develop a crispy glaze.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches around 140°F for safety and optimal warmth.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or smoked paprika to the garlic butter glaze.
- Letting the ham rest after cooking is crucial to retain juices and improve texture.
- If your air fryer basket is small, you might need to cut the ham in half for it to fit comfortably.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
