How to Cook Perfectly Juicy Ham Steak in the Ninja Foodi

The Ninja Foodi is the ultimate multicooker that allows you to pressure cook, air fry, grill, bake and more all in one convenient appliance. One of the tastiest foods to make in the Ninja Foodi is ham steak. The Ninja Foodi’s capabilities give you multiple cooking options to achieve delicious, moist and tender ham steak every time.

Benefits of Cooking Ham Steak in the Ninja Foodi

There are several advantages to using the Ninja Foodi for ham steak rather than oven baking or pan frying

• Quick cook times – The Ninja Foodi can cook ham steak under pressure in just 8-12 minutes, Much faster than traditional methods

• Tender and juicy – Pressure cooking and air frying keep the ham steak very moist and tender without drying it out.

• Takes on flavor – The ham beautifully absorbs any glazes, spices or smoky flavors added.

• Doesn’t need monitoring – Set the Ninja Foodi and walk away. No need to constantly watch it.

• Versatile appliance – You can cook the ham steak and side dishes simultaneously using different functions.

• Convenient – With both pressure cooking and air frying capabilities, you don’t need multiple appliances.

Choosing the Right Ham Steak for the Ninja Foodi

Picking the right ham steak is key for the best results in the Ninja Foodi:

• Fully cooked – Look for ham steaks that are already fully cooked, not fresh. This allows faster cook times.

• 1-inch thick – Ham steak slices that are approximately 1-inch thick cook the most evenly. Avoid thinner or much thicker pieces.

• Boneless – Boneless ham steak cooks more uniformly in the Ninja Foodi. Bone-in takes longer.

• Lower sodium – If possible, choose lower sodium ham steaks to reduce the saltiness.

• No breading – Breading won’t come out crispy in the pressure cooker or air fryer so opt for plain ham steak.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Ham Steak in the Ninja Foodi

Follow these simple steps for tender, juicy ham steak cooked in the Ninja Foodi.

Ingredients:

• 1 – 2 lb boneless ham steak, cut into 1-inch slices
• 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp apple juice
• 1⁄4 cup chicken or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Cut ham steak slices evenly to about 1-inch thickness.

2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey and apple juice.

3. Brush the sauce mixture evenly on both sides of the ham steak slices.

4. Pour chicken broth into pot. Place steamer rack inside pot.

5. Arrange ham steak slices in a single layer on the steamer rack.

6. Secure the Ninja Foodi lid and set to pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.

7. When cook time finishes, quick release the pressure.

8. Remove lid carefully. Transfer ham steaks to a platter and serve.

Notes:

• Adjust cook time up or down for thicker/thinner ham steak slices.

• For bone-in ham steak, increase cook time to 18-20 minutes.

• Brushing on sauce helps ham steak caramelize and absorb flavor.

• Let ham steak rest 5 minutes before cutting for juiciest results.

Air Frying Ham Steak in the Ninja Foodi

The Ninja Foodi’s air fry function also makes wonderfully juicy ham steak with a crispy exterior:

• Preheat air fry at 400°F for 3 minutes.

• Brush ham steak slices with sauce mixture.

• Air fry coated ham steak slices for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Brush on a bit more sauce during cooking if desired.

• For bone-in ham steaks, increase air fry time to 12-14 minutes.

• Check temperature with a meat thermometer for doneness.

Flavor Variations for Ninja Foodi Ham Steak

One of the great aspects of cooking ham steak in the Ninja Foodi is how easily you can add different flavors.

• Cherry Cola – Use cola, cherry preserves and Worcestershire sauce.

• Apricot Dijon – Combine apricot jam, Dijon mustard, salt and brown sugar.

• Pineapple Teriyaki – Mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey and minced ginger.

• Orange Chipotle – Combine orange juice, adobo sauce, brown sugar and minced chipotles.

• Bourbon Brown Sugar – Use brown sugar, bourbon, maple syrup and cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions for Ninja Foodi Ham Steak

The Ninja Foodi’s moist, juicy ham steak with a subtly crisped exterior is delicious enjoyed in many ways:

• In omelets or scrambled eggs for breakfast

• On biscuits or rolls for an easy sandwich

• Diced up in twice baked potatoes

• Added to pasta with peas and Parmesan

• On top of a spinach salad with vinaigrette

• Alongside cheesy scalloped potatoes and roasted vegetables

• Simmered in split pea soup or bean soup

• Topped with grilled or caramelized pineapple rings

• On top of creamy grits or polenta

• In quesadillas with peppers and shredded Mexican cheese

Helpful Tips for Cooking Ham Steak in the Ninja Foodi

Follow these tips and tricks for the very best results when making ham steaks in your Ninja Foodi:

• Use pressure cook function for juicier ham steak, air fry for crispier exterior

• Brush on sauce mixtures just before cooking so flavors absorb better

• Cook ham steak flat in a single layer so it cooks evenly

• For convenience, make sauce packets ahead and store in the freezer

• Add a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce for smoky flavor without charring

• Use light or lower sodium ham steak and limit additional salt in sauces

• Let ham steak rest at least 5 minutes before slicing for juiciest results

• Double check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety

• Store leftovers in fridge for up to 5 days

The Ninja Foodi allows you to cook incredibly moist, delicious ham steak in a fraction of the time of traditional methods. Follow this guide and enjoy flavorful ham steak any night of the week!