Who likes to heat up their kitchen in the middle of the summer heat? No one, that's who. If you love to cook outdoors, the idea of cooking corn on your stovetop may be off of the table. But don't give up on your favorite summer side dish. Make this Air Fryer Corn On the Cob for a delicious pairing to your favorite grilled protein!
Why This Will Be Your New Favorite Way To Make Corn On The Cob
- Fast. Made in less than 30 minutes, even with your preheating time.
- Easy. Shuck your corn, spritz with oil, and cook. That's it!
- Inexpensive. Many of your local farmer's markets or big box stores love to sell corn on the cob at a very affordable price in the spring and summer months.
- Family-Friendly. A perfectly sweet and buttery bite, your whole family will love this vegetarian Air Fryer Corn on the Cob!
How Do Air Fryers Work?
There is a long, scientific explanation of how air fryers work. My guess is that most of you don't actually care about the science behind it. You're just wondering if it will make corn on the cob in the air fryer taste delicious.
Let me assure you that this is some of the best corn on the cob I've ever had.
If you truly are interested in the science behind it, check out our full scientific explanation on our product review blog:
What You'll Need To Make Corn This Way
One of the best things about this Air Fryer Corn on the Cob is how simple it is to make. You'll only need 3 things for the perfect corn on the cob in the air fryer!
Here's what you'll need to make it:
- An air fryer. My Instant Vortex is what I tested this in, but it also works great in any air fryer with a basket over 3 quarts.
- Corn on the cob (as much as can be put in a single layer in your air fryer)
- An oil sprayer or any aerosol spray oil
How To Make Air Fryer Corn On The Cob
Making corn on the cob in your air fryer is so simple, you won't be able to believe it took you so long to try it!
Here are the steps to make the best corn on the cob:
- Thoroughly shuck and clean your ears of corn
- Place the corn in your air fryer in a single layer
- Lightly spray your shucked corn with oil on all sides
- Cook at 375F for 14 minutes
- Slater with butter
- Season with Salt and Pepper
- Enjoy!
Will Corn On The Cob Pop In The Air Fryer
I know it may seem like placing an ear of corn in the air fryer may make popcorn.
However, you have nothing to fear. Just because you have oil with corn kernels under heat doesn't mean you will end up with popcorn.
Sweet corn on the cob and popcorn kernels are two completely different things.
If you put an ear of corn in your air fryer, you'll wind up with delicious tender corn for a side dish, not a quick appetizer or movie treat.
Can I Cook Frozen Corn?
Yes, you can also cook frozen corn on the cob in your air fryer. The only difference will be the cooking time and the fact that you need to season it at a different point in the cooking process.
For frozen corn on the cob, you will want to cook it for 16 minutes at 375F. Instead of adding the oil and seasoning at the very beginning, you will want to wait until about 5 minutes into the cooking process to add these so they can easily stick to the kernels.
Can I Make Air Fryer Corn In Foil?
I don't personally use aluminum foil when I make corn on the cob in the air fryer because it is just one additional step. If you know me, you know I like to keep things simple.
Using aluminum foil slows the cooking process no matter what you're preparing. So, if you chose to wrap your corn on the cob in aluminum foil, make sure you add a few more minutes to the cooking time listed below.
Tips And Tricks
There are a few things that will take your Air Fryer Corn On The Cob to the next level:
- Place it in a single layer. Try your best not to overlap your ears of corn. This can cause it to cook unevenly.
- Cut to fit. If you have an air fryer with a smaller basket, you may need to cut your ears of corn to fit. Safely do this with a sharp butcher knife and a cutting board. If you can't cut completely through with your knife, make an indention in the ear with your knife and use your hands to break the cob in half.
- Pick Fresh Corn. Fresh corn has the best flavor. Avoid buying corn that has dark silk or pitted kernels. This is older produce that will have an inferior flavor and will likely be dried out.
- Clean Thoroughly. Remove all of the husk and silk for the best results. If you leave the husk, the kernels may not cook thoroughly. If you leave the silk, it will curl and burn -- leaving a bitter and unappetizing appearance.
- Customize It. Who says your corn has to be boring or ordinary? Add your favorite seasonings and toppings to make it delicious.
Variations To This Air Fryer Corn On The Cob Recipe
The fantastic thing about this super easy side dish is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas to help you make your perfect air fryer corn on the cob:
- Elote. Take a delicious spin on my corn in a cup! Slather your corn cob with all of the ingredients after it is cooked in your air fryer.
- Sweet Corn. Spray your cooked corn with oil of your preference. Lightly sprinkle with sugar and salt.
- Buttery Corn. Instead of spraying with oil, spread softened butter on your corn before air frying, and immediately after the cooking cycle has completed.
- Corn Off Of The Cob. Cook your corn according to the recipe. Allow to cool and then use a sharp knife to carefully cut the corn off of the cob. Perfect for people with tooth sensitivity or children that aren't ready to tackle corn on the cob.
How To Store Corn On The Cob
If you have extra ears of the corn leftover after air frying, simply place them in a large zip top bag, eliminating as much air as possible from the inside of the bag. It will stay delicious up to a week after it is prepared.
How To Reheat Air Fryer Corn
When it's time to reheat your tasty corn on the cob, you just need to pop it back in the air fryer! Place it in the air fryer at 300F for 3-4 minutes or until it is hot to the touch.
Check them every two minutes to ensure you don't overcook it. The kernels can easily become charred or dried out if you leave the ears in for too long.
What Else Should I Air Fry?
Honestly, what shouldn't you air fry!? There are so many things that are made as delicious in your air fryer as they are in your oven or deep fryer!
Here are a few of my favorites:
- Keto Chicken Tenders
- Air Fryer Bacon
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
- How To Make Air Fryer Cauliflower
- Air Fryer Hard Boiled Eggs
If you love this Air Fryer Corn on the Cob as much as we do, make sure you share it with your friends on Facebook and Pinterest so they can try it too!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 Ears Corn On The Cob
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper, Optional
Instructions
- Thoroughly shuck and clean your ears of corn
- Place the corn in your air fryer in a single layer
- Lightly spray your shucked corn with oil on all sides
- Cook at 375F for 14 minutes
- Slater with butter
- Season with Salt and Pepper to taste
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Nutrition
And don't forget to check out my air fryer cookbooks! Every day easy air fryer, and Air Fryer Revolution.
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