Air Fryer Corn on the Cob is quick, crispy, and full of flavor. It brings back so many memories from my childhood in Brazil. We used to make this all the time with fresh corn picked straight from nearby farms.
My mom would cook it until tender and slather it in her homemade butter. It was creamy, and full of flavor. The smell alone made everyone rush to the kitchen.
These days, life is much busier, and I don’t always have time to cook like we used to. That’s why I love this air fryer version. It’s fast, easy, and still gives me that same warm, comforting feeling.
With just a few minutes and a handful of ingredients, I can recreate one of my favorite childhood dishes and enjoy a quiet moment that feels like home, no matter how hectic the day is.
Related: Low carb air fryer mozzarella sticks
Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air fryer corn on the cob offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a go-to dish for those who appreciate the sweet taste of corn.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 15–20 minutes from start to finish.
- Minimal ingredients – Only a few pantry staples needed.
- Versatile – Use fresh or frozen corn, and choose your favorite toppings.
- Great texture – Juicy inside, with a crisp outer layer.
- No boiling or grilling required – Simple, no-fuss preparation.
- Budget-friendly – Corn is an inexpensive and filling side dish
- Naturally gluten-free – Perfect for gluten-free diets.
- Kid-friendly – Sweet, fun to eat, and customizable with toppings.
- Perfect for any season – Works just as well with frozen corn in winter.
The Magic of Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
OIf you’ve never tried corn on the cob in an air fryer, you’re in for a treat. The high heat in the air fryer creates a slightly roasted exterior while keeping the kernels juicy and tender.
You get a flavor that’s close to grilled corn, without stepping outside. Whether you’re cooking for a summer picnic or a cozy dinner indoors, this corn adds a fresh, vibrant side dish to your meal.
Plus, using the air fryer means less cleanup and faster results. It’s perfect when you want something satisfying and simple, with minimal work. Once you try it, you may never go back to boiling corn again.
Topping ideas:
Once your corn is cooked, you can leave it simple or have fun with creative toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese + garlic powder
- Lime juice + chili powder for a zesty kick
- Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for color and freshness
- Paprika or smoked paprika for depth of flavor
- A sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan cheesy flavor
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Butter substitute: Use vegan butter or olive oil if you’re dairy-free or vegan.
- Seasoning swap: Try Cajun seasoning, taco seasoning, or everything bagel spice instead of plain salt and pepper.
- No fresh herbs? Dried herbs work too, just use a smaller amount.
- Low-sodium version: Skip the salt and use garlic or onion powder for flavor.
Cooking times can vary slightly, but typically, 10 to 15 minutes is sufficient to reach that tender texture while retaining a delightful bite.
Remember to turn the corn halfway through for an even cook and consistent char.
Flavor Variations and Toppings
This corn dish is extremely versatile and can be paired with just about anything:
- Classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans
- Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or ribs
- Veggie burgers or pulled pork sandwiches
- A fresh tomato salad or avocado and cucumber salad
- Rice bowls, tacos, or BBQ jackfruit wraps
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond its delightful taste, air fryer corn on the cob offers several nutritional benefits.
Each serving is relatively low in calories and provides a good amount of fiber, making it a healthy addition to your meals.
With just 120 calories per serving and a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dish can fit nicely into various dietary preferences.
It’s an excellent way to enjoy fresh produce while indulging in a comforting side dish that everyone can appreciate.
How to make Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
CRISPY AND JUICY AIR FRYER CORN ON THE COB
This Air Fryer Corn on the Cob is quick, crispy, and full of flavor. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish! Juicy on the inside, slightly charred on the outside, and ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, or fresh herbs
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Corn: Husk the corn and remove any silk. If using frozen corn on the cob, ensure it is thawed and drained.
- Season the Corn: Brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter, and sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over each ear.
- Air Fry the Corn: Place the corn in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove the corn from the air fryer and add any additional toppings, if desired. Enjoy your deliciously crispy air fryer corn on the cob!
Notes
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
This air fryer corn on the cob recipe proves that simple can still be amazing. It brings together the juicy, sweet flavors of corn with the convenience and crispiness of air frying.
With only a handful of ingredients and barely any effort, you can make a healthy, delicious side that feels like summer or any time of the year.
