Name: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: Fresh corn on the cob (husks and silks removed); Avocado or olive oil spray; Food & Wine; Kosher salt (to taste); Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste); Butter (for serving)

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Air Fryer Corn on the Cob is the easiest, tastiest way to enjoy sweet, juicy corn with a perfectly charred, golden edge—without firing up the grill or boiling a pot of water. This recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or whenever you’re craving a quick side dish that delivers big on flavor. It’s ready in under 15 minutes, and the air fryer gives the corn that irresistible caramelized sweetness. I stumbled upon this method when I got my first air fryer and was skeptical it could match grilled corn, but one bite of those crisp, buttery kernels, and I was hooked. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Quick and easy: Ready in about 12 minutes with minimal prep—no waiting for water to boil.
Perfect texture: The air fryer gives you tender, juicy kernels with a slightly crispy, charred exterior.
Minimal cleanup: No pots or pans, just a quick wipe of the air fryer basket.
Customizable flavors: Brush with butter, sprinkle with spices, or go bold with herbs and cheese.
Kid-friendly: Sweet corn is always a hit, and the fun cob shape makes it easy to eat.
Versatile side: Pairs beautifully with burgers, chicken, or even a light summer salad.
No heat in the kitchen: Unlike boiling or grilling, the air fryer keeps your kitchen cool.

Ingredients for This Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Air Fryer Corn on the Cob. I’ve added tips to help you pick the best ingredients:

Corn on the cob (4 ears): Fresh corn is ideal for sweetness and crunch. Look for bright green husks and moist silk. Frozen or pre-shucked corn works in a pinch.
Olive oil or melted butter (2 tbsp): Olive oil adds a light flavor, while butter gives that classic richness. Use what you love!
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn. Kosher or sea salt works great.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Freshly ground for a subtle kick. Adjust to your taste.
Optional seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder for a flavor boost. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a fresh touch.
Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan, crumbled feta, or a squeeze of lime for extra flair.

How to Make Air Fryer Corn on the Cob – Step-by-Step

Making Air Fryer Corn on the Cob is a breeze, and I’ll guide you through each step with tips to ensure perfect results every time.

Prep the Corn
Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Rinse under cold water to clean off any remaining silk strands. Pat dry with a paper towel. Tip: If the cobs are too long for your air fryer basket, cut them in half for a better fit.
Season the Corn
Brush each cob lightly with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring an even coating. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and add any optional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor. Tip: Don’t overdo the oil—a thin layer is enough to help the seasonings stick and promote browning.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 2–3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and that perfect char. Tip: If your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, skip this step, but check the corn a minute earlier.
Cook the Corn
Place the corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, turning the cobs halfway through for even browning. The corn should be tender with golden, slightly charred spots. Tip: If using halved cobs, check at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the corn from the air fryer (it’ll be hot!). Brush with a little extra butter if desired, and sprinkle with optional toppings like Parmesan or fresh herbs. Serve immediately while warm. Tip: For a fun twist, cut the kernels off the cob and toss them into a salad or taco.

Helpful Tips for Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Meal Prep: Shuck and season the corn ahead of time, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Pop in the air fryer when ready to cook.
Storage: Store leftover cooked corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap each cob in foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore the crisp texture. Microwaving works too, but it may soften the corn slightly.
Pairing Ideas: Serve with grilled meats, burgers, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad for a complete meal. It’s also great with a dollop of herb butter or a sprinkle of chili lime seasoning.
Creative Twists: Try a Mexican-inspired version with lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese. Or go sweet with a honey-butter glaze for a dessert-like side.

FAQs About Air Fryer Corn on the Cob

Can I make Air Fryer Corn on the Cob with frozen corn?
Yes! No need to thaw—brush frozen cobs with oil, season, and air fry at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway. Check for tenderness before serving.

How do I prevent the corn from drying out?
A light coating of oil or butter helps lock in moisture. Avoid overcooking by checking at the 10-minute mark, as air fryer models vary.

Can I cook more than four cobs at a time?
It depends on your air fryer’s size. Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed to ensure even air circulation and browning.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can roast the corn in the oven at 425°F for 20–25 minutes on a baking sheet, turning halfway, or boil for 5–7 minutes.

Can I add toppings before cooking?
Stick to oil and dry seasonings before air frying to avoid burning. Add wet toppings like butter or cheese after cooking for the best results.

Closing Paragraph

I whip up this Air Fryer Corn on the Cob at least once a week during corn season because it’s so quick, delicious, and versatile—perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. My final tip? Experiment with toppings to make it your own; a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime can take it to the next level. Try this Air Fryer Corn on the Cob and let me know how it turns out—it’s one of my go-to sides, and I’m sure you’ll love it too!

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