Cooking frozen corn on the cob in the air fryer is a quick and tasty way to enjoy this sweet treat. It turns out tender and has a lovely char, just like grilling!
I love how easy this is! Just pop the corn in, set the timer, and voila! Ready to enjoy with a sprinkle of butter or your favorite seasoning. You can’t go wrong! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Corn on the Cob: This recipe works best with frozen corn on the cob, which is convenient and quick. You can use fresh corn if you have it, but you’ll need to cook it for a bit longer to ensure it’s tender.
Olive Oil or Butter: I like using olive oil for a light touch, but melted butter adds a richer flavor. You can also swap in any cooking oil you prefer, like avocado oil, for a slightly different taste.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives a nice flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. If you’re out of garlic powder, minced fresh garlic works too. Just be mindful that fresh garlic can burn easily when air frying.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is fabulous for that umami kick! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get the Corn Perfectly Cooked in the Air Fryer?
The key to great air-fried corn is in the cooking process. Follow these steps to ensure your corn turns out tender and delicious:
- Preheat: Always preheat your air fryer. This helps the corn start cooking immediately and evenly.
- Coating: Brush your corn well with oil or butter for added flavor and to help the spices stick.
- Single Layer: Make sure the corn is in a single layer in the basket, allowing hot air to circulate freely. If you overcrowd, some cobs may not cook evenly.
- Turn Midway: Rotate the corn halfway through cooking for an even brownness on all sides.
Don’t rush the cooking time; check for the golden color and tenderness for the best results! Enjoy this simple and tasty dish!
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 (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and 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 prepare and around 12 minutes to cook. So, in about 20 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious side dish of air-fried corn on the cob to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is important as it helps cook the corn evenly and gives it a nice brown color.
2. Prepare the Corn:
While your air fryer is getting warm, take the frozen corn on the cob and brush each ear with olive oil or melted butter. Make sure to coat them well so they get delicious and flavorful!
3. Season the Corn:
Now, sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper all over the corn. Be sure to spread it evenly so every bite is full of flavor!
4. Air Fry the Corn:
Place the corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on how big your air fryer is, you might need to cook in batches. Air fry the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning it halfway through. The corn should be hot, and you’ll start to see some nice brown markings on the kernels.
5. Add the Cheese:
Once the corn is done, carefully take it out of the air fryer and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the corn while it’s still hot. The heat will help the cheese melt just a bit, making it even tastier!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, add some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your air-fried corn on the cob immediately with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon adds a delightful zesty touch!
Enjoy your delicious air-fried corn on the cob!
Can I Use Fresh Corn Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh corn on the cob, simply husk it and cut the kernels off if desired. Adjust the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes, checking for doneness as it cooks faster than frozen corn.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil or Butter?
No worries! You can substitute with any cooking oil you have on hand, like canola or avocado oil. If you want a non-dairy option, consider using a plant-based butter alternative for brushing.
How to Store Leftover Corn on the Cob?
Leftover corn can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, or microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Add Different Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices based on your taste. Options like chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick. Just adjust the amount to suit your preference!