This recipe for air fryer corn on the cob is an amazing way to enjoy fresh corn on the cob. It is crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Plus, it is very easy to make!
Why you’ll love this recipe
There are few summertime delights tastier than grilled sweet corn on the cob, and now you can make it even more easily with your air fryer.
Roasting corn on the cob in your air fryer is a great option for those days when you don’t want to turn on your grill. It only takes a few minutes to cook, and it is tender and juicy, with that wonderful charred flavor you can normally only get from the grill or barbecue.
Scroll down for the printable card for this easy air fryer corn on the cob recipe, or read on for all the details!
What do you need?
Corn on the cob
This recipe is best made with fresh corn on the cob (the fresher, the better IMO). When choosing the best corn on the cob at the grocery store, there are a few things to look out for:
- First, check the husks for any signs of damage or discoloration. You want to choose ears of corn that have bright green, tightly wrapped husks.
- Next, feel the kernels through the husk to make sure they are plump and firm. If the kernels feel soft or mushy, the corn is likely past its prime.
- Finally, look for ears of corn with brown silk at the top, indicating that the corn is ripe and ready to eat.
This recipe also works with frozen corn cobs, so feel free to substitute if that is what you have to hand.
Oil
The recipe below specifies light olive oil, but corn oil, vegetable oil, avocado oil, or any other cooking oil with a high smoke point should be fine too. Choose an oil spray that spritzes (rather than an aerosol), or you can drizzle or lightly brush it on with a basting brush.
When choosing an olive oil spray for your air fryer, look for the type that spritzes rather than an aerosol. The propellant in aerosol oil sprays can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer.
How to cook corn in an air fryer
This recipe is very simple, but there are a few simple steps to getting it just right:
- If you are using fresh corn, remove the husk (the outer leaves and stringy bits). I often cut it into 3-4 inch sections before air frying, but you can also roast the whole cob if it fits in your air fryer.
- Place the corn in the air fryer basket. It is best if it is not jammed in there too tightly as you want the hot air to be able to roast all sides of the corn evenly.
- Spray or brush the corn cobs with oil.
- Air fry corn at 360°F/ 180°C for 12-17 minutes. Frozen corn cobs will take 3-4 minutes longer than fresh corn.
How long to air fry corn on the cob
The exact cooking time will depend on a few factors, including how large your corn cobs are and how powerful your air fryer is.
The beauty of air frying is that it is easy to add a few minutes to the cooking time if needed. To get the cooking time just right, monitor the corn towards the end of the cook time, and air fry for additional 1-2 minute intervals until it is cooked to your liking.
Serving ideas
- Classic buttered corn: Top with melted butter and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a simple and delicious side dish.
- Mexican-style corn: Drizzle corn with mayonnaise, sprinkle with chili powder and cotija cheese, and squeeze with lime juice for a spicy and flavorful twist.
- Garlic parmesan corn: Drizzle corn with melted garlic butter and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
- Buffalo-style corn: Brush with buffalo sauce and sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles for a hot and spicy twist.
Storing and reheating
Store any leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 3 days.
You can reheat corn in the air fryer or the microwave:
- Air fry for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave on High for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
- 2 fresh corn cobs [Note 1]
- Olive oil spray
Directions
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F/ 180°C.
- Remove the husk from the corn cobs and cut each into two pieces.
- Place corn in air fryer basket, and spray with olive oil.
- Air fryer corn on the cob for 12-15 minutes until starting to turn golden brown.
- Carefully remove from air fryer and enjoy!
Notes
- You can also use frozen corn on the cob, but cook times will be a few minutes longer.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an estimate and provided for informational purposes only.
Cynda
Thursday 17th of June 2021
Thank you so much for all your Air Fryer recipes. I have been looking for some all in one spot and came across yours, It's an excellent tool for one's inexperienced or a pro.