I absolutely love cooking with the air fryer! It’s such a game-changer for making dishes that are quick, flavorful, and perfectly cooked without all the hassle. One of my favorite things to make is Air Fryer Corn on the Cob—it’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of that smoky, grilled flavor, all without the need for a grill. Whether it’s for a summer BBQ, a cozy dinner, or even a snack, this recipe is a winner every time.
The air fryer takes the traditional corn-on-the-cob recipe to the next level. You can enjoy the deliciously charred taste of grilled corn without spending hours by the barbecue. Plus, it’s so easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cook time, you’ll have perfectly cooked corn on the cob in no time. Let’s dive right in and learn how to make this easy, yet irresistible dish.
What You Need to Make Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Corn on the Cob: The star of this recipe! Choose fresh, plump ears of corn. You’ll want them to be as fresh as possible to ensure that natural sweetness comes through when you cook them in the air fryer.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps to crisp up the corn and adds a delicious, mild flavor. You can also use melted butter if you prefer a richer taste.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavor and balances out the sweetness of the corn. It’s essential for seasoning the corn once it’s cooked.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a little heat and extra depth of flavor. You can adjust this to your taste preferences.
Optional Seasonings (like paprika or garlic powder): Feel free to get creative with seasonings! A sprinkle of paprika gives the corn a smoky touch, while garlic powder can add an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients List
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor
How to Make Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures that the corn cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Prep the Corn
Peel the husks off the corn and remove all the silk. Rinse the corn under cold water to ensure it’s clean. Pat the corn dry with a towel to ensure the oil sticks well.
Step 3: Coat the Corn with Oil and Seasonings
Brush the corn on all sides with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the corn. If you’re using optional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder, sprinkle them on as well for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 4: Air Fry the Corn
Place the prepared corn in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer so the hot air can circulate around each ear. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning the corn halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll want the corn to have a nice golden-brown color and some charred spots.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the corn is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately with a bit more butter or your favorite topping, and enjoy!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use Fresh Corn: The fresher the corn, the sweeter and more flavorful the end result will be. If you’re using frozen corn, it may not yield the same crispy texture, but it can still work in a pinch.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For the best results, cook the corn in a single layer. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking.
- Add Flavor Variations: Try adding your favorite seasonings! Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or even a squeeze of lime juice can elevate the flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Depending on the size of your corn and the model of your air fryer, the cook time might vary. If you like your corn a little more charred, feel free to cook it for an additional minute or two.
FAQs
Can I cook more than one ear of corn at a time in the air fryer? Yes! Just make sure the corn is arranged in a single layer and there’s enough space for air to circulate around each ear. If you’re cooking a lot, you may need to cook in batches.
Can I use frozen corn on the cob in the air fryer? While fresh corn is ideal for this recipe, frozen corn can also be cooked in the air fryer. Just make sure to thaw it completely and remove any excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Corn on the Cob? This corn makes a great side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or BBQ chicken. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or serve it alongside a hearty steak.
Can I make Air Fryer Corn on the Cob ahead of time? For the best taste and texture, air fryer corn is best served fresh. However, you can prep the corn ahead of time by seasoning it and storing it in the fridge. Just pop it in the air fryer when you’re ready to cook!