Quick and Easy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe
An Air Fryer Corn On The Cob Recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy perfectly cooked corn without the need for boiling or grilling. This method ensures juicy kernels with a slight caramelized char, making it a quick and flavorful side dish. To prepare, start by husking the corn and lightly brushing it with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle your choice of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika, for added flavor. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the corn for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking. The result is tender, golden corn that’s bursting with natural sweetness and enhanced by your chosen spices. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal, from barbecues to weeknight dinners. This easy recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional methods without compromising on taste or texture.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe | Perfectly Roasted Corn in Minutes
Corn on the cob is a quintessential summer treat, but did you know you can make it even easier and quicker by using an air fryer? This method not only saves time but also ensures perfectly roasted corn with a slight char and a juicy, tender bite. Whether you’re preparing a quick side dish for a weeknight dinner or adding a twist to your barbecue menu, air fryer corn on the cob is a game-changer. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make delicious air-fried corn in just a few simple steps, complete with optional seasoning suggestions to elevate your dish.
Air Fryer Corn On The Cob Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- Basting brush
- Knife (for optional butter or seasoning application)
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn husked and cleaned
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite seasoning blend
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Corn: Brush each ear of corn with olive oil or melted butter. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Air Fry the Corn: Place the ears of corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to work in batches if your air fryer is small.
- Cook: Air fry the corn at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. The corn is done when it's tender and slightly browned in spots.
- Serve: Remove the corn from the air fryer using tongs. Let it cool for a minute or two before serving. Optionally, brush with more butter and sprinkle with additional seasoning.
Notes
1. Choose Fresh Corn
Opt for fresh, high-quality corn for the best flavor and texture. Look for ears with bright green husks and moist, golden silk. Fresh corn will have the sweetest and juiciest kernels.2. Season Generously
Before air frying, generously season your corn with your favorite spices and herbs. Classic options include salt, pepper, and butter, but you can also try garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, or parmesan cheese for added flavor.3. Avoid Overcrowding
To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, cook the corn in batches. This allows hot air to circulate around each ear of corn, resulting in an evenly cooked and slightly crispy exterior.4. Rotate for Even Cooking
About halfway through the cooking time, rotate or flip the corn. This helps achieve uniform browning and ensures that all sides are cooked to perfection.5. Finish with a Burst of Flavor
After air frying, consider adding a final touch of flavor. Brush the corn with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with a finishing seasoning, such as smoked paprika, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lime juice. This enhances the taste and gives the corn a delicious, fresh finish. By following these tips, you'll achieve delicious, perfectly cooked air fryer corn on the cob every time. Enjoy!
Why Make Corn on the Cob in an Air Fryer?
- Quick and Easy: Cooks in just 10-15 minutes.
- No Boiling Required: Avoids the mess of boiling water.
- Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or keep it simple with butter and salt.
- Perfect Texture: The air fryer delivers a slightly crispy exterior with juicy, tender kernels.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob, husked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, parmesan cheese, or fresh herbs
Instructions
- Prep the Corn: Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Rinse and pat dry.
- Season the Corn: Brush each ear of corn with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Corn: Place the corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping the corn halfway through, until it is golden and slightly charred.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the corn from the air fryer and serve immediately. Add more butter, a squeeze of lime, or your favorite toppings for extra flavor.
Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 1 ear of corn)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 4.5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Vitamin C: 8% of Daily Value
- Iron: 2% of Daily Value
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
- Choose Fresh Corn: Opt for fresh, in-season corn for the sweetest flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between the corn in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try different spice blends like Cajun, Italian, or BBQ for variety.
- Leftover Ideas: Use leftover air-fried corn in salads, salsas, or as a topping for tacos.
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.