Air Fryer Sweetcorn on the Cob
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious side dish, this Air Fryer Sweetcorn on the Cob is perfect. It’s buttery, flavorful, and ready in less than 20 minutes, making it an easy addition to family dinners, barbecues, or weeknight meals.
Cooking corn in the air fryer locks in its natural sweetness while giving it a light char that tastes just like grilled corn but without the hassle.
Sweetcorn is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion, and contains essential vitamins like vitamin C, B vitamins, and folate.
Corn is also rich in antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin that promote eye health.
Since it’s naturally gluten-free and low in fat, it makes a wholesome side that fits into many diets.
Best Time to Eat Sweetcorn (& Pairing Ideas)
Sweetcorn is a versatile food that can be enjoyed any time of day. It works well as part of a light lunch, a hearty dinner side, or as a quick snack in the afternoon.
For the healthiest option, try to enjoy sweetcorn two to three times a week as part of a balanced diet.
Air Fryer Sweetcorn pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It also complements vegetarian dishes such as salads, roasted vegetables, and grain bowls.
Adding a sprinkle of cheese or fresh herbs after air frying can make it even more delicious.
How to Make Air Fryer Sweetcorn
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 ears of corn, husked
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Place each ear of corn on a piece of aluminum foil large enough to wrap it completely.
Step 3: Place 1 tablespoon of butter on each ear of corn.
Step 4: Sprinkle each ear of corn with salt, dividing it evenly among them.
Step 5: Wrap each ear of corn tightly in the aluminum foil.
Step 6: Place the wrapped corn in the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer.
Step 7: Cook in the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
Step 8: After 10 minutes, carefully unwrap the corn and return them to the air fryer basket.
Step 9: Cook uncovered for an additional 3 minutes to allow the corn to develop a slight char and enhance the flavor
Step 10: Once cooked, remove the sweetcorn from the air fryer and serve hot
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweetcorn
Serve your sweetcorn hot straight from the air fryer with a pat of butter melting on top. You can cut the kernels off the cob and toss them into salads, tacos, pasta, or rice bowls.
It’s also great for summer gatherings; just serve it alongside burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue for a crowd-pleasing side.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but adjust the added salt accordingly to avoid over-seasoning.
2. Can I add other seasonings or herbs to the corn?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning with your favorite herbs or spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or freshly ground black pepper.
3. Can I cook more than four ears of corn at once?
Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may be able to cook more ears of corn at once. Just make sure they fit comfortably in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
4. Can I cook the corn without aluminum foil?
Yes, you can cook the corn directly in the air fryer basket, but using foil helps to keep the corn moist and prevents it from drying out during cooking.
5. Can I use frozen corn on the cob?
Yes, frozen corn on the cob works well in the air fryer. Just add 2–3 extra minutes of cooking time and make sure to season after thawing slightly.
6. Do I need to pre-soak the corn?
No soaking is needed when using the air fryer. The foil helps lock in moisture, and cooking uncovered at the end gives a nice char without drying the corn.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover air fryer sweetcorn, let it cool completely before storing. Wrap each cob tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating in the Air Fryer
To keep the corn juicy, reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. If the corn seems a little dry, brush it lightly with butter or olive oil before reheating.
Freezing Option
You can also freeze cooked corn on the cob. Wrap each cob in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly in the air fryer (at 350°F for 6–8 minutes) or thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Air Fryer Sweetcorn on the Cob
- Total Time: 18 minutes
Ingredients
4 ears of corn, husked
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Place each ear of corn on a piece of aluminum foil large enough to wrap it completely.
Step 3: Place 1 tablespoon of butter on each ear of corn.
Step 4: Sprinkle each ear of corn with salt, dividing it evenly among them.
Step 5: Wrap each ear of corn tightly in the aluminum foil.
Step 6: Place the wrapped corn in the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer.
Step 7: Cook in the air fryer at 390°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
Step 8: After 10 minutes, carefully unwrap the corn and return them to the air fryer basket.
Step 9: Cook uncovered for an additional 3 minutes to allow the corn to develop a slight char and enhance the flavor
Step 10: Once cooked, remove the sweetcorn from the air fryer and serve hot
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minuutes
