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!

Feature image shows 8 pieces of air fryer corn ribs on a white and black color plate
Table of Contents show

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!

Photo shows ingredients needed to make the dish
  • 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.

Photo shows placing the sliced corn cobs on a sheet pan
1. Dice corn into quarters
Photo shows a small white blue color bowl with butter herb seasoning sauce
2. Butter herb sauce
Photo shows corn cobs brushed with butter sauce over a sheet pan
3. Brush with the sauce
  1. Prepare the corn: Remove from the husk and cut off the ends.
  2. Microwave: Microwave the whole corn on the cob on high for 2 minutes. Let cool.
  3. 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.
  4. Season/Sauce: Brush the ribs with butter and olive oil. Season with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and dried parsley.
  5. Air fry: Place the riblets in an air fryer basket at 400°F (204°C) for 12 minutes total (flip after 6 minutes).
  6. Oven: Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 12-15 minutes or until they are lightly charred and a little crispy.
  7. 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:

  1. Use a sharp chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes the job easier and safer.
  2. Prepare a steady cutting board: Ensure it won’t move around.
  3. Microwave the whole corn on high for 2 minutes: This softens the corn and makes it easier to cut. Let it cool before handling.
Photo shows 4 steps on how to cut corn ribs safe

Slice vertically:

  1. Cut off both ends of the corn.
  2. Stand the corn up vertically on the cutting board.
  3. 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:

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

How do you safely cut corn ribs?

 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.

Do you eat the whole corn rib?

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.

Can I use frozen corn on the cob?

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.

How to 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.

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!

Photo shows corn ribs made in air fryer served on a plate
5 from 12 votes

Air Fryer Corn Ribs Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 8 riblets
Author: ChihYu Smith
Air Fryer Corn Ribs are a delightful summer snack/appetizer made with fresh corn on the cob. Ready in under 30 minutes and with 8 ingredients only. They are the best summer food and outrageously delicious!
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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

Serving: 1riblet, Calories: 52kcal, Carbohydrates: 4g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 149mg, Potassium: 66mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 104IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 1mg, Iron: 1mg
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer corn ribs, corn ribs air fryer
Web Story: https://iheartumami.com/web-stories/how-to-make-corn-ribs-in-air-fryer/
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Tag @iheartumami.ny on Instagram and hashtag it #iheartumami.

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