Cooking frozen corn on the cob in an air fryer is super easy and fun! You just pop the cobs in, and they come out hot, tender, and slightly crispy. Yum!
I love to slather mine with butter and sprinkle some salt for an extra treat. It’s the perfect side for any meal—or just for snacking while watching TV! 🍿
Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Corn on the Cob: Using frozen corn is super convenient! If you can’t find it, you could also use fresh corn on the cob—just adjust the cooking time a bit.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor and helps the spices stick. If you need a different oil, melted butter or avocado oil work well too.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely salty finish. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese shred, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Garlic Powder: A must for flavor! If you prefer fresh, use one clove of minced garlic instead. Just make sure to sauté it for a minute to avoid bitterness.
Paprika: This adds a nice color and flavor. You can substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky taste, or just skip it if you prefer less spice.
Fresh Parsley: This is great for garnish and adds freshness. If you don’t have parsley on hand, try cilantro or chives instead!
How Do You Get the Corn Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To achieve perfectly crispy corn on the cob, the air fryer is your best friend! Here are some tips:
- Make sure your air fryer is preheated to 380°F (193°C) to allow the corn to cook evenly.
- Brush the corn well with the olive oil mixture for an even coat. This helps them crisp up nicely.
- Keep the corn in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows the hot air to circulate freely for a crispier result.
- Turn the corn halfway through the cooking time (around 5-6 minutes) to ensure all sides get that golden brown color.
- Don’t rush the cheese melting! A quick return to the air fryer after sprinkling the Parmesan creates a satisfying cheesy topping.
How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Corn on the Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 frozen corn on the cob (individually wrapped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 20 minutes. That’s quick and easy for a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This will get it nice and hot for cooking the corn and give it that perfect crispiness!
2. Prepare the Corn:
While your air fryer is warming up, take the frozen corn on the cob out of their packages. They can go straight from the freezer to the fryer—no thawing needed!
3. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix these together until well blended. This will give your corn extra flavor, so make sure to apply it evenly!
4. Coat the Corn:
Brush the olive oil mixture over each corn cob, ensuring all sides are coated. This will help them cook evenly and taste delicious!
5. Cook the Corn:
Carefully arrange the corn on the cob in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket, as this allows for even cooking. Close the air fryer and cook for 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn the corn halfway through so all sides get that lovely golden-brown color.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once the cooking time is up, take the corn out of the fryer. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over each corn cob while they’re still hot. This will make the cheese melt nicely!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Put the corn back into the air fryer for an additional 2 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt slightly, enhancing the flavor and texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After the cheese has melted, remove the corn from the air fryer and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve your delicious air-fried corn on the cob with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Enjoy your tasty corn on the cob, perfect for any meal!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh corn, simply husk it and follow the same instructions, adjusting the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the corn as the cooking time may vary based on the size of the cobs.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use any grated hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Nutritional Yeast for a vegan option. Both will add a delightful flavor to your corn!
How Should I Store Leftover Corn on the Cob?
Store any leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave it briefly.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite spices or herbs, like chili powder or Italian seasoning, in the oil mixture. You can also top the corn with butter, lime juice, or other cheeses right after cooking for different flavor profiles!
