Air Fryer Corn On The Cob Recipe: The Easiest Way to Enjoy
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make perfectly cooked corn on the cob, look no further than the air fryer! This method not only saves time but also brings out the natural sweetness of the corn, resulting in a tender yet slightly crispy texture. With minimal prep and just a few minutes of cooking time, this Air Fryer Corn On The Cob Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, BBQs, or as a side dish for family dinners. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to boiling or grilling with loads of butter, making it a must-try recipe for health-conscious individuals.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making corn on the cob in an air fryer, including preparation, cooking tips, nutrition, and more.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Side Dish
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Active Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: ~80 calories
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 80
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2.5g
- Fat: 1.2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 10mg
Corn is naturally rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making this recipe a nutritious addition to your meals.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious air fryer corn on the cob:
- 4 ears of corn (shucked and cleaned)
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- (Optional) Garlic powder, paprika, or grated Parmesan for seasoning
Equipment
To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following:
- An air fryer (large enough to fit 4 ears of corn or in batches)
- A small bowl for mixing oil and seasonings
- Tongs for flipping the corn
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating helps ensure even cooking and a perfect texture. Most air fryers take about 3-5 minutes to preheat.
Step 2: Prepare the Corn
- Shuck the corn by removing the husks and silks. Rinse the ears of corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk strands.
- Pat the corn dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
Step 3: Season the Corn
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil or melted butter with your preferred seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, etc.).
- Brush the mixture evenly over the corn using a basting brush or your hands. Ensure the corn is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Arrange the Corn in the Air Fryer
- Place the corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the corn in batches.
Step 5: Air Fry the Corn
- Cook the corn at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, use tongs to flip the corn to ensure even cooking on all sides.
- Check for doneness by piercing the kernels with a fork; they should be tender and slightly golden.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the corn from the air fryer and let it rest for 2 minutes.
- Serve the corn immediately with additional toppings like butter, grated Parmesan, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
- Choose Fresh Corn: The fresher the corn, the sweeter and juicier it will taste. Look for bright green husks and plump kernels.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s enough space in the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate around the corn.
- Experiment with Seasonings: For a flavor twist, try adding Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or a drizzle of honey.
- Use Foil for Juicier Corn: If you prefer a steamed texture, wrap the corn in foil before placing it in the air fryer.
Why Make Corn on the Cob in an Air Fryer?
The air fryer method is a game-changer for cooking corn on the cob. Unlike boiling, which can strip some nutrients and natural flavors, air frying enhances the corn’s sweetness while maintaining its nutritional value. Plus, it’s faster than grilling and doesn’t require outdoor equipment.
This Air Fryer Corn On The Cob Recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can customize the seasonings to match any meal, whether it’s a classic BBQ, Mexican-inspired feast, or a healthy vegetarian spread.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your air-fried corn on the cob with:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Burgers or veggie burgers
- A fresh garden salad
- Mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious way to enjoy corn on the cob, this Air Fryer Corn On The Cob Recipe is a must-try. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a summer BBQ, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab some fresh corn and fire up your air fryer—deliciousness awaits!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.