There’s something about corn on the cob that instantly brings back memories of summer cookouts and easy family dinners. But sometimes, waiting for charcoal or boiling water just feels like too much effort, especially when hunger strikes unexpectedly. That’s where this air fryer corn on the cob comes in—simple, quick, and surprisingly flavorful. I remember one evening, juggling dinner prep and a distracted toddler, when I threw some corn in the air fryer almost on a whim. I wasn’t sure if it’d be good, but those kernels turned out tender and bursting with a roasted sweetness that made me think, why have I not done this before? The slight crisp on the outside paired with buttery seasoning had me sneaking bites even before plating. And honestly, the kitchen didn’t get all steamy or messy, which was a relief on a hectic day.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick turnaround—ready in about 15 minutes, which is a game-changer on busy days.
- That roasted flavor without firing up the grill or waiting for water to boil.
- The kernels stay tender but get a nice crispness on the outside—no sogginess here.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or special ingredients needed.
If you’re worried about the air fryer fitting the corn, don’t stress too much. I usually line them up single-file, turning halfway through, and it works pretty well. Sometimes I might get a kernel or two slightly more toasted than the rest, but that’s part of the charm.
PrintAir Fryer Corn on the Cob
Delicious and easy air fryer corn on the cob with a perfectly roasted flavor and tender kernels. Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is a quick and tasty side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
4 ears of corn, husked
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Brush each ear of corn evenly with the melted butter.
Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the corn, ensuring all sides are seasoned.
Place the corn ears in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap.
Cook the corn in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
Carefully remove the corn from the air fryer using tongs.
Serve immediately while hot.
Kitchen Notes: Using an air fryer basket or tray that’s easy to clean helps keep this hassle-free. Serve the corn with a sprinkle of extra salt or a dash of chili powder if you want to kick things up a notch. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of parmesan can totally change the vibe. I haven’t tried it with flavored butters yet, but I bet garlic or herb butter would be delicious. For a lighter take, you can skip the butter or swap it for olive oil, though the buttery version definitely wins for richness.
FAQ:
Can I cook frozen corn on the cob in the air fryer? I haven’t tested frozen ears with this exact method, but it might work if you increase the cooking time slightly. Just keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer? Preheating helps get that nice roasted texture faster, but you might skip it if you’re pressed for time.
How do I store leftovers? Pop any uneaten corn into an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave.
When dinner’s calling and you want something easy but satisfying, this air fryer corn on the cob has your back. Scroll on, save it, and give it a try—you might find yourself reaching for the air fryer far more often than expected.