Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Corn ribs are easy to make, incredibly tasty, and so much fun to eat. The air fryer gives them a crisp, caramelized coating while keeping the inside tender and sweet. You can season them any way you like—from classic butter and herbs to spicy or cheesy flavors. They’re also vegan-friendly, mess-free, and ready in minutes, making them a must-try summer (or anytime) recipe.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Olive oil or melted butter (vegan or regular)
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the corn: Remove husks and silk from the corn. Stand each cob upright on a cutting board and carefully cut it in half lengthwise, then cut each half again into quarters to make long “ribs.” (Use a sharp knife and work slowly.)
- Season: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the corn ribs in the seasoning until evenly coated.
- Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the corn ribs in a single layer in the basket (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are browned and curled slightly.
- Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn ribs and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: approximately 22 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version: Add chili powder, cayenne, or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat.
- Cheesy elote-style: After air frying, top with vegan or regular mayonnaise, cotija or feta cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
- Garlic butter: Brush with melted garlic butter right after cooking for rich flavor.
- BBQ twist: Coat with your favorite barbecue seasoning or a smoky rub.
- Sweet version: Brush with vegan butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a fun dessert-style snack.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover corn ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
FAQs
Why are they called corn ribs?
When cut and cooked, the corn curls slightly, resembling the shape of ribs—hence the name “corn ribs.”
Can I use frozen corn?
It’s best to use fresh corn for easy cutting and best texture, but thawed frozen corn on the cob can work in a pinch.
What’s the easiest way to cut corn into ribs?
Stand the cob upright on a sturdy surface and carefully rock the knife through the center. Cutting through corn requires a sharp chef’s knife and caution.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating ensures even cooking and that nice crispy finish.
Can I make these in the oven?
Yes, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I make them vegan?
Use olive oil or vegan butter and skip any dairy-based toppings like cheese.
What can I serve with corn ribs?
They’re great with burgers, tacos, grilled veggies, or as a snack with dipping sauces like chipotle mayo or ranch.
Can I make them ahead of time?
You can prep and season the ribs ahead, then air fry just before serving for the crispiest texture.
Why do corn ribs curl in the air fryer?
The heat causes the kernels and cob to shrink at different rates, naturally curling them into a rib-like shape.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Lightly brush with oil before cooking and cook for an extra 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Corn Ribs are a creative, flavorful way to enjoy fresh corn. Crispy on the edges, tender in the middle, and bursting with smoky, tangy flavor, they make an unforgettable side dish or snack. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe proves that with a little twist and an air fryer, even corn on the cob can become something extraordinary.
PrintAir Fryer Corn Ribs
Air Fryer Corn Ribs are a fun, crispy, and flavorful twist on classic corn on the cob. Seasoned and air-fried until caramelized and curled, they make the perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish—sweet, smoky, and ready in minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 4 fresh corn cobs, husked and cleaned
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (vegan or regular)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Remove husks and silk from the corn. Stand each cob upright on a cutting board and carefully cut it in half lengthwise, then cut each half again into quarters to form long ribs.
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the corn ribs in the mixture until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the corn ribs in a single layer in the basket.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly curled at the edges.
- Remove and squeeze fresh lime juice over the ribs. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife and work carefully when cutting the corn into ribs.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
- For a vegan version, use olive oil or vegan butter and skip dairy-based toppings.
- Try adding cheese, chili powder, or BBQ seasoning for fun flavor variations.
- Best enjoyed immediately while hot and crisp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 corn cob (cut into 4 ribs)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
