Cooking frozen corn on the cob in an air fryer is super quick and easy! You’ll get sweet and tender corn with a slight crispness that makes every bite enjoyable.
I love how it cooks in just about 10-12 minutes. No boiling pots of water, and the air fryer does its magic! Perfect for a simple side dish or a fun snack. 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn can work too, but using frozen is super convenient. Just make sure it’s individually frozen to avoid clumping. If fresh corn is in season, go for that for even better flavor!
Olive Oil: This adds richness. If you need an alternative, use melted butter for a different flavor. Other oils like avocado or canola can work, but olive oil is my favorite for its taste and health benefits.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty kick. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic the cheesy flavor. For a twist, try using Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste!
Garlic Powder: It’s easy and adds great flavor. You could substitute it with minced fresh garlic or garlic salt—just be cautious with additional salt if you do!
How Can I Ensure My Corn Cooks Evenly in the Air Fryer?
Even cooking is essential for perfectly air-fried corn. First, preheat your air fryer well—this helps to start cooking right away. When brushing the corn, make sure each ear is coated evenly with oil and seasoning, as this also aids in even cooking.
- Arrange the corn with some space between each ear in the basket for proper airflow.
- Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time. This ensures every side gets that nice golden color.
- Check for doneness: Your corn should be tender and lightly browned. You can always pop it back in for a few extra minutes if needed.
How to Make Frozen Corn on the Cob in an Air Fryer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ears of frozen corn on the cob
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 10 to 12 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy side dish. In just under 20 minutes, you’ll have delicious, air-fried corn on the cob ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will take about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the corn cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Corn:
While the air fryer is heating up, take your frozen corn on the cob and brush them with olive oil using a pastry brush or your hands. Make sure to coat all sides well with the olive oil.
3. Season the Corn:
Next, sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the corn. This will add great flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
4. Arrange the Corn in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the seasoned corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s enough space between each ear for the hot air to circulate and cook the corn evenly.
5. Cook the Corn:
Cook the corn for 10 to 12 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps the corn brown nicely on all sides. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and tender.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Once cooked, carefully take the corn out of the air fryer. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot corn so that it melts just a little.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish it off by garnishing the corn with chopped parsley for a pop of color. If you like, serve lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Enjoy:
Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy your delicious air-fried corn on the cob as a tasty side or snack!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh corn, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Fresh corn typically takes about 8-10 minutes in the air fryer. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook!
How Can I Adjust the Seasoning to My Taste?
Feel free to get creative with the seasonings! You can add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or swap the garlic powder for onion powder. Just remember to taste as you go, so you can find the perfect balance for your palate.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, let the corn cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a crispy finish!
Can I Cook More Than Four Ears at Once?
Yes, but it’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer. If you have a larger air fryer, you can cook more corn at once, just make sure to maintain space for even cooking. If your air fryer is smaller, it’s better to cook in batches.
