Go Back

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe

Air Fryer Corn on the Cob is a quick and easy way to prepare sweet, juicy corn with lightly roasted edges. Cooking the corn in the air fryer gives it a delicious toasted flavor while keeping the kernels tender and naturally sweet.
Made with fresh corn, butter, and a few simple seasonings, this recipe is ready in about 20 minutes. Serve it as a side dish with grilled meals, burgers, sandwiches, or your favorite summer recipes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 175 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ears fresh sweet corn husked
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley optional
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Corn: Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Rinse under cool water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Trim the ends if needed so the corn fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket.
  • Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the seasonings are evenly mixed.
  • Coat the Corn: Brush each ear of corn generously with the seasoned butter mixture. Turn the corn to coat all sides so the kernels absorb the seasoning evenly.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for about 3 minutes, if your model requires preheating. Lightly grease the basket if necessary to prevent sticking.
  • Arrange the Corn: Place the corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Leave a little space between the ears to allow hot air to circulate. Cut the corn in half if needed to fit.
  • Air Fry the Corn: Cook at 380°F for 12–15 minutes, turning the ears halfway through cooking. The kernels should become tender with lightly golden, roasted spots.
  • Check for Doneness: Pierce a kernel with a fork to check that it is tender and juicy. If the corn needs more cooking, return it to the air fryer for another 2–3 minutes.
  • Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the corn using tongs. Brush with any remaining melted butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Adjust the seasoning: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy version, or use lemon pepper for a citrusy flavor.
  • Turn halfway through: Rotating the corn helps it cook and brown more evenly.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Cook in batches if your air fryer basket cannot hold all four ears comfortably.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftover corn in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or until warmed through.