If there’s one veggie that screams summer, it’s sweet corn on the cob – but who says you can’t enjoy those charred, smoky flavors in the dead of winter? This air fryer corn on the cob is the answer to your off-season grilling cravings. It turns out juicy, tender, and just the right amount of smoky with a touch of crisp around the edges.
I first made this on a snowy January evening when I was craving something sunny and grilled. The smell alone transported me to a backyard BBQ – minus the parka and snow boots. Best part? No need to fire up the grill or deal with propane tanks. The air fryer does all the magic!
The flavor here is all about balance: the natural sweetness of the corn gets a savory kick from olive oil and smoked paprika, and that finishing lime-chili butter? Chef’s kiss. It’s tangy, spicy, and melts right into the hot corn for an irresistible bite.
You’ll have this on the table in about 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s super easy, beginner-friendly, and great as a side dish for anything from tacos to burgers to weeknight chicken. Let’s do it!
🥕 Ingredients Overview
- Fresh corn on the cob: Use husked corn cobs or leave the husks on to remove after air frying (makes the silks slide off easier!). Look for bright green husks and plump kernels.
- Olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and gives the corn a golden, lightly crisp exterior. Avocado oil also works.
- Smoked paprika: Adds that warm, smoky depth. Regular paprika won’t give the same BBQ-style flavor.
- Salt: A must to bring out the sweetness of the corn.
- Butter: For that rich, creamy finish. Use dairy-free if needed.
- Lime zest: Adds brightness and a fresh citrusy layer.
- Chili powder: Just enough heat to keep things interesting. Adjust to taste.
Dietary notes: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. Use vegan butter for a fully plant-based version.
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the corn: If leaving the husks on, just trim the ends. Otherwise, husk the corn and remove as much silk as possible. Pat dry.
2. Season: Brush each cob with olive oil and sprinkle generously with smoked paprika and salt.
3. Air fry: Place corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 390°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket – this helps the edges get nice and crisp.
4. Make the butter: While the corn cooks, mix softened butter with lime zest and chili powder.
5. Serve: Slather the hot corn with the compound butter and enjoy immediately!
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the oil: It helps the spices stick and enhances browning.
- Overcrowding: Too many cobs = steamed, not roasted texture.
- Using too much butter: A little compound butter goes a long way – you want it to complement, not drown, the corn.
- Not turning: Flip halfway so all sides get golden.
🎨 Variations & Add-Ons
- Mexican-style street corn (elote): Add mayo, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
- Parmesan garlic: Swap lime zest for minced garlic and finish with shredded parm.
- Spicy Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika for an extra kick.
- Herb butter: Mix butter with chopped basil, parsley, or chives.
This corn is also great cut off the cob and tossed into salads, bowls, or tacos!
Make Ahead & Storage
You can prep the butter a few days in advance and store it in the fridge. Leftover cooked corn will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. Or cut the kernels off and reheat in a skillet with a little butter for a quick corn side dish.
🥗 Optional: Nutrition Highlights
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. It’s also high in fiber and vitamin C!
Air Fryer Smoky Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 4 ears corn on the cob
- Husk corn and remove silks (or leave husks on to remove after cooking).
- Brush corn with olive oil and season with smoked paprika and salt.
- Place in air fryer at 390°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.
- Mix butter with lime zest and chili powder.
- Spread flavored butter on hot corn and serve.
Notes
Hope this smoky air fryer corn on the cob hits the spot! It’s one of those easy sides that delivers big on flavor without much effort. If you give it a try, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out. You can also tag @SimplyAirCook on social – I’d love to see your creations! And if you’re craving more veggie goodness, check out my air fryer zucchini slices — another quick and tasty favorite!
