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Air Fryer Corn Ribs are a delightful summer snack or appetizer made with fresh corn on the cob. These corn “riblets” are brushed with butter, sprinkled with spices and herbs, and air fried to a buttery crisp on the outside while staying sweet and juicy on the inside.
Ready in under 20 minutes and with only 8 ingredients – including salt and olive oil – I’ll show you my secret hack on how to cut corn into ribs easily and safely. They are the best summer food and outrageously delicious!
Table of Contents
What are corn ribs
Corn ribs are essentially whole corn on the cob sliced into strips. The shape resembles ribs, so they’re also known as corn riblets. They’re easier to eat and even more delicious because you can season more of the surface. You can air fry, bake, or even grill them.
In this post, I’ll show you how to air fry and bake them, plus share my special tips on how to cut corn into “ribs” safely. 🙂
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty corn ribs in the air fryer. Each ingredient adds something special to make them extra delicious!
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- Whole corn on the cob: Select fresh corn with plump kernels; best when they are in season for the sweetest flavor and juiciest texture.
- Ghee butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor and helps the seasonings stick to the corn.
- Olive oil: Provides a subtle flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture when air frying or baking.
- Coarse sea salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and balances the flavors.
- Smoked paprika (or sweet paprika): Adds a smoky or sweet depth of flavor, making the corn ribs more savory and delicious.
- Garlic powder: Brings a mild, aromatic flavor that compliments the corn beautifully.
- Dried parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color to the corn ribs.
- Kewpie mayo (or regular mayo): Gives a creamy finish that pairs perfectly with the seasoned corn ribs.
Seasoning variations
This recipe is super versatile, and you can pretty much use any spices and herbs you like. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Spread with mayo or crema, then top with a squeeze of lime juice, a sprinkle of chile powder, and crumbled Cotija cheese for a tangy, spicy finish.
- Earthy Seasonings: Try a touch of chili pepper, a dash of curry powder, or a sprinkle of turmeric powder for deeper flavors.
- Toppings: Sprinkle with goat cheese, feta cheese, cilantro, or parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory finish.
How to make corn ribs in air fryer
Get ready to make these super delicious and addictive corn riblets! They’re easy to prepare and cook, whether you’re using an air fryer or an oven. Follow these simple steps to create your new favorite snack or side dish.
- Prepare the corn: Remove from the husk and cut off the ends.
- Microwave: Microwave the whole corn on the cob on high for 2 minutes. Let cool.
- Slice into ribs: With a sharp chef’s knife and a steady cutting board, place the corn vertically (stand it up) and carefully and slowly dice it in half, then dice those halves into quarters.
- Season/Sauce: Brush the ribs with butter and olive oil. Season with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and dried parsley.
- Air fry: Place the riblets in an air fryer basket at 400°F (204°C) for 12 minutes total (flip after 6 minutes).
- Oven: Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 12-15 minutes or until they are lightly charred and a little crispy.
- Serve: Brush the air fried corn ribs with a thin layer of mayo and sprinkle with more parsley on top!
TIP: Microwaving the whole ear of corn on high for 2 minutes will make it easier (and safer) to dice!
How to cut corn cobs into ribs easily
Cutting corn cobs into ribs can be tricky, but here’s a safe and easy method to get perfect air fry corn ribs every time:
Safety points:
- Use a sharp chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes the job easier and safer.
- Prepare a steady cutting board: Ensure it won’t move around.
- Microwave the whole corn on high for 2 minutes: This softens the corn and makes it easier to cut. Let it cool before handling.
Slice vertically:
- Cut off both ends of the corn.
- Stand the corn up vertically on the cutting board.
- Carefully slice the whole corn in half, then slice each half into quarters.
TIP: Curve your fingers: When holding the corn in place, curve your fingers to avoid cutting yourself.
Alternative method:
- After microwaving and cutting off the ends, chop the cob in half (width-wise).
- Then slice each half vertically into quarters. This method creates 8 shorter pieces per cob, making it easier and safer to cut.
What can I serve with corn ribs?
Air fryer corn riblets are great as a snack on their own, or you can serve them with a dipping sauce, alongside grilled meats, or as a side for your favorite BBQ dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Grilling Protein Dishes: Serve the corn strips alongside Tsukune (Japanese chicken meatballs) for a savory pairing. Add some Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for a spicy and sweet kick, and Vietnamese Grilled Chicken Drumsticks for a juicy and flavorful complement.
- Side Dishes: Pair the corn ribs with a creamy and tangy Japanese Potato Salad. Include Tofu Puffs for a light and crispy addition, and Shrimp Summer Rolls for a refreshing and light option.
- Dipping Sauce: Enhance the flavor of the corn strips with Vietnamese Peanut Sauce. You can also try any of the 23+ Dipping Sauces for Grilled Chicken, which work well for corn ribs too. Pair your meal with a Watermelon Peach Mocktail for a refreshing finish.
Expert tips
- Select fresh corn with plump kernels: The freshest corn will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Microwave the whole corn on the cob for 2 minutes: This makes slicing much easier and safer.
- Use a sharp chef’s knife: A sharp knife will help you make clean cuts without slipping. Always be careful when slicing.
- Ensure a steady cutting board: A stable surface prevents accidents while cutting.
- Curve your fingers when holding the corn: This helps avoid any accidental cuts.
- Use vegan butter: To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply substitute ghee butter with vegan butter.
FAQs
The best way to cut a whole corn on the cob into ribs is to microwave it for 2 minutes first! This softens the corn and makes it easier to slice. Use a sharp chef’s knife and a steady cutting board. Stand the corn vertically with the wider part against the table. Slowly and carefully slice it in half, then quarter it.
No, you don’t eat the whole corn riblet. Eat the kernels off the cob just like you would with regular corn on the cob, but the cob itself is too tough to eat.
Yes, you can use frozen corn on the cob. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before microwaving and slicing. This will help you achieve the best texture and make slicing easier.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 1 minute. Cover with plastic wrap to avoid mess in the microwave.
More sweet corn recipes you might like
Love corn? Here are more ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Check out these recipes to keep the corn goodness going!
- Stir fry corn with chicken: Juicy chicken stir-fried with sweet corn kernels for a quick and flavorful meal.
- Chicken Corn Egg Drop Soup: A Chinese favorite, this soup is comforting and easy to make.
- Frozen Corn on the Cob Air Fryer: Easy and delicious, with a buttery sauce and parmesan sprinkle.
Air Fryer Corn Ribs Recipe
Video
Ingredients
- 2 ear fresh corn on the cob
- 1 tbsp ghee butter room temperature
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp coarse sea salt
- ½ tsp smoked paprika or sweet paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley plus more for garnish
- Garnish Kewpie mayo or regular mayo
Instructions
- Prepare the corn: remove from the husk and cut off the ends.
- Microwave: microwave the whole corn on the cob on high for 2 minutes. Let cool to the touch.
- Slice into ribs: with a sharp chef’s knife and a steady cutting board, place the corn vertically (stand it up) and carefully and slowly dice it in half, then dice those halves into quarters.
- Season: in a bowl, combine ingredients from butter to parsley. Brush the ribs with the seasonings on all sides.
- Air fry: place the ribs in a single layer with some space in-between. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 12 minutes total (flip after 6 minutes).
- Oven: place the ribs on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 12-15 minutes or until they are lightly charred and a little crispy.
- Serve: brush the corn ribs with a thin layer of mayo and sprinkle with more parsley on top. Serve hot or at room temperature!
Notes
- Microwave the whole corn on the cob first: This will make slicing much easier and safer.
- Safety tip: Curve your fingers in when holding the corn in place to avoid cutting yourself.
- Alternative slicing method: If slicing a whole cob makes you nervous, try this: Microwave the whole corn on the cob and cut off both ends. Chop the cob in half (width-wise), then cut each half into quarters vertically. You’ll end up with 8 shorter pieces per cob, making them easier and safer to cut.
- Oven version: The ribs won’t be as curvy, but they will still be very delicious!
- Store and reheat: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 1 minute. Cover with plastic wrap to avoid mess in the microwave.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Literally the best corn I’ve ever had/made! All the flavors are just amazing and the air fryer gives it that crunch. I also think it’s amazing to eat from the cob lol. I did mine in fourths so I literally can bite it using my molars haha. I did have to microwave much longer because I don’t have the best knives and it was definitely ba scary workout cutting them 😬
Thank you so much!
These corn ribs are absolutely delicious! We served them without the mayo and they still taste wonderful. Buttery delicious and thanks for the tips on how to cut corn ribs easily. Super helpful. 🙂
These corn ribs are so delicious and simple to make. I especially love the butter flavor. My husband loves it, too!
Super easy, super tasty, super perfect for a side, snack, or main meal!
Tip – try and get plump, extra juicy corn cobs so there’s loads of “corn meat” to soak up the flavors. Essential drizzle with Kewpie Mayo is a must!
Love it! 😀
So quick and easy, a must for easy holiday meal ideas!
Oh my goodness! These corn ribs are AMAZING! The creamy sauce and paprika give so much delicious flavorI love how quick they are to make too!
We love them, too!
This is genius! They make sure a juicy side dish and my kiddos thought they were kinda cool. Definitely a yummy summer app.
Wow, these are SO GOOD! I can’t wait to make them again.
This is such a smart, unique and creative recipe. Thank you for the details — I followed all your instructions and it came out perfect.
The tip on how to cut the corn is super helpful! We made it last night and it was a super hit with the family!
The hardest part is to cut the corns otherwise the season and cook part are super straightforward.
I might try cutting them into shorter riblets next time (8 smaller pieces). Great recipe!
Thanks for sharing, Kathy! So happy to hear!