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If you haven’t tried corn ribs yet, this is your sign. These air fryer corn ribs are juicy, crispy-edged, and packed with smoky flavor. They curl up into fun little strips that are just as satisfying as they are snackable.
I first made these for a Friendsgiving and they were gone before the turkey hit the table. They’re fun to eat with your hands, easy to season, and feel just a little fancy while being totally unfussy.
Thanks to the air fryer, you get caramelized edges and tender corn in just about 10 minutes — no need to fire up the grill or oven.
They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, summer BBQs, or just a fun side when you want to shake up your veggie game.
🥕 Ingredients Overview
Here’s what you need to make these:
- Fresh Corn on the Cob: Ears of corn, quartered lengthwise into rib shapes.
- Olive Oil: Helps everything crisp and stick.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky BBQ flavor.
- Garlic Powder: For that savory kick.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste.
Optional finishes: lime juice, Parmesan, or a drizzle of spicy mayo.
Pro Tip: Microwave corn for 30 seconds to soften before slicing — makes cutting safer and easier!
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Corn: Carefully cut 2 ears of corn lengthwise into quarters to create ribs.
- Season: Rub with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 380°F.
- Air Fry: Arrange in basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until curled and crispy at the edges.
- Finish: Squeeze with fresh lime juice and sprinkle with Parmesan or herbs if desired.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, press gently with tongs halfway through.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the microwave softening step before cutting
- Using too little oil (you want even coverage)
- Overcrowding the basket
- Forgetting to flip for even curl
- Letting them dry out (don’t overcook)
🎨 Variations & Add-Ons
- Cheesy: Add grated Parmesan after air frying.
- Spicy: Mix paprika with chili powder or cayenne.
- Vegan: Skip cheese and finish with lime + chili flakes.
- Smoky BBQ: Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 2 minutes.
- Herby: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley.
Or drizzle with sriracha mayo or ranch for dipping.
📦 Make Ahead & Storage
These are best fresh, but here’s how to plan ahead:
- Make Ahead: Slice and season corn up to a day ahead. Store covered in the fridge.
- Fridge: Store cooked corn ribs for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to re-crisp.
- Freezer: Not recommended — texture gets chewy.
🥗 Nutrition Highlights
Corn ribs are naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and made with just a handful of whole ingredients. A great way to enjoy corn in a fresh, new format.
Air Fryer Corn Ribs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut corn into ribs. Microwave for 30 seconds first if needed.
- Rub with oil and seasonings.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
- Air fry 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Finish with lime juice or Parmesan.
Notes
- Cut carefully using a sharp knife.
- Don’t skip flipping for even cooking.
- Serve with dip or sprinkle with herbs.
Corn ribs are one of those side dishes that makes you go, “Why didn’t I try this sooner?!” They’re flavorful, fun, and surprisingly easy. Give them a go and tell me what twist you try — cheesy, spicy, or something in between. And if you’re craving more veggie magic, check out my air fryer zucchini chips next!
