Making frozen corn on the cob in the air fryer is super easy! Just pop those tasty cobs in and watch them turn golden brown, with a sweet, crispy exterior that you’ll love!
I enjoy adding a little butter and salt to mine right after cooking. It’s a quick side dish that feels special, and my kitchen smells amazing while it’s cooking. Yum! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Corn on the Cob: These are super convenient and require no prep! If you can’t find frozen, fresh corn works too, but you’ll need to boil it briefly before air frying to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture. You can use avocado oil or melted butter as a substitute if you prefer a different taste or if you’re looking for a higher smoke point oil.
Garlic Powder: This gives a nice garlicky flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to use it! Just mince it finely and use about half a clove.
Paprika: Mild and sweet paprika works well. If you like a bit of heat, try smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Just remember to use less if you’re using cayenne!
Parmesan Cheese: I find grated Parmesan melts beautifully over the hot corn. You can also use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get My Corn Perfectly Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy corn, follow these simple steps carefully! It’s crucial to ensure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, giving you even cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer for about 5 minutes. This step is important; a preheated fryer helps lock in the corn’s moisture while giving it a crispy exterior.
- Coat the corn evenly with oil and seasonings. This not only adds flavor but helps to crisp up the surface.
- During cooking, flip the corn halfway through to ensure all sides cook evenly and get that golden brown finish.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy air-fried corn on the cob every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Corn on the Cob
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 frozen corn on the cob pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to cook, totaling around 15-17 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy corn on the cob straight from your freezer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This step ensures your corn will cook evenly and get that nice, crispy texture!
2. Prepare the Corn:
While the air fryer is preheating, take the frozen corn on the cob out of the package. Drizzle the olive oil over the corn and ensure each cob is coated evenly for that delicious flavor.
3. Season the Corn:
Next, sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the corn. Mix it around so the seasonings evenly cover the cobs. This will make your corn extra tasty!
4. Cook the Corn:
Now it’s time to cook! Place the seasoned corn on the cob in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded—this allows for even cooking. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to flip the corn halfway through for a golden, crispy finish!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the corn is cooked and beautifully crispy, carefully remove it from the air fryer. While it’s still hot, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top so it melts slightly. This adds a rich, savory flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For that extra touch, garnish your corn with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty kick. Enjoy your delightful air-fried corn on the cob!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh corn, you’ll want to first boil it for about 5 minutes to soften it slightly. Then, follow the same seasoning and air frying steps. Fresh corn typically cooks faster, so check for doneness around 8-10 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil, melted butter, or even a non-stick cooking spray. Each option will add a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for this recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover corn on the cob in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their crispness.
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You could add chili powder for some heat, lime zest for a citrusy twist, or even Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the amounts to your taste!
