Making frozen corn on the cob in an air fryer is super simple and tasty! Just pop those corn cobs in, and let the fryer work its magic. You’ll get sweet, juicy corn in no time!
I love how easy it is to season them any way I like—salt, butter, or even a sprinkle of cheese! Plus, the air fryer makes everything nice and warm without making a mess. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Corn on the Cob: Look for corn that’s sweet and plump. If you can’t find frozen corn, you can use fresh corn on the cob. Just adjust cooking time slightly, as fresh corn cooks faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re looking to keep it lower in calories, feel free to swap with cooking spray, or use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan provides a delicious, salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast as a substitute. It gives a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley is lovely for garnish, adding freshness. If you don’t have any, you can use cilantro or just skip it altogether— the corn will still be tasty!
Lime: Lime adds a zesty finish. If you prefer a different flavor, try lemon or even a splash of vinegar to brighten things up.
How Can I Ensure My Corn Cooks Perfectly in the Air Fryer?
Cooking corn in an air fryer is quick and simple, but to get it just right, follow these tips:
- Preheat the air fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking right from the start, just like you would with a traditional oven.
- Brush evenly: Lightly brushing olive oil helps the spices stick. Make sure to coat all sides of the corn.
- Don’t overcrowd: Place corn in a single layer in the basket. This allows hot air to circulate around each ear for that perfect golden color.
- Turn halfway: Flipping the corn halfway through the cooking time ensures even cooking. Don’t skip this step!
- Serve hot: Adding Parmesan while the corn is hot helps it melt and stick, giving great flavor in every bite.
How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Corn on the Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ears of frozen corn on the cob
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and tasty dish takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’re looking at about 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This helps ensure that your corn will cook evenly and get that nice, golden finish you want.
2. Prepare the Corn:
While the air fryer is heating up, take your frozen corn on the cob and lightly brush each ear with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps the seasonings stick. Then, sprinkle the corn with salt and pepper, making sure to cover all sides.
3. Air Fry the Corn:
Place the seasoned corn in the air fryer basket, laying them out in a single layer. It’s okay if they touch a little bit, but try not to overcrowd them. Now, air fry the corn for 12-15 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through, so they cook evenly and get golden brown all around.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the corn is cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer. While it’s still hot, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the corn to melt slightly. For a burst of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious air-fried corn on the cob right away with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze the lime over the corn for an extra zing. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Frozen Corn?
Absolutely! If using fresh corn on the cob, you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly to about 8-10 minutes, as fresh corn cooks faster than frozen. Just keep an eye on it and turn the corn halfway to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can substitute olive oil with melted butter, avocado oil, or canola oil. Each will add a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for coating the corn. Just brush a thin layer to help the seasonings stick!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the corn in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through, adding a bit of oil or butter if needed to revive the flavor.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with seasonings. Try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even some chili powder for a kick. Just keep the total amount similar so that the corn doesn’t get overwhelmed with flavors!
