Air Fryer Corn Ribs

Get ready for a buttery and crispy sensation with Air Fryer Corn Ribs—a TikTok favorite that is perfect for summer BBQs and guaranteed to be a delicious and addicting treat. These easy-to-make corn ribs are irresistibly crispy, making them the ideal finger food for dipping and a fun addition to any gathering.

It’s corn! You’ll want to check this out if you are a corn lover. These air fryer corn ribs are the perfect way to enjoy fresh corn with a street corn twist. These mouth-watering morsels balance freshness and flavor by combining savory flavors with a zingy kick from lime juice and Tajin. They just might be the best way to enjoy your ears of corn this summer. 

These delicious air fryer corn ribs combine simple ingredients to make a stunning summer side dish. Perfect alongside some of your favorite summer recipes, this yummy corn dish is impressive and easy to make. Enjoy the great Mexican street corn taste by making your guests this TikTok favorite for your next get-together. 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for those who want to spend less time in the kitchen and enjoy their summer gathering more. Using your air fryer ensures quick and hassle-free cooking, making it convenient for any occasion.
• Versatile and customizable: This recipe offers room for customization and can cater to whatever flavor profile you are looking for. You can adjust the amount of cotija cheese or lime juice to suit your taste. You can also augment the amount of Tajin you use, reducing or increasing your corn’s spice level. 
• Perfect for summer gatherings: The air fryer corn ribs make a fantastic side dish for summer dinners and gatherings. The combination of flavors, attractive presentation, and easy-to-eat format make it a crowd-pleaser that will impress and satisfy your guests.
• Crowd pleaser: Almost everyone loves corn, and this recipe takes it to an entirely different level. Turning the corn into little ribs looks cool, and the flavors are incredible. It’s like Mexican street corn in an easier-to-eat format. Sure to please a crowd, these corn ribs are a must-serve at your next summer get-together.

Ingredients

The full printable recipe card with measurements and instructions is found at the bottom of the post.

• Corn on the cob 
• Melted butter
• Mayonnaise 
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Tajin
• Lime juice
• Crumbled cotija cheese

How to Make Air Fryer Corn Ribs

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Follow along to learn how to make air fryer corn ribs!

• Step One: Husk corn if needed. Use a very sharp knife to cut each cob into quarters, long ways. This will create the ribs. Rinse off any excess hairs.
• Step Two: In a small mixing bowl, mix butter, mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, tajin, and lime juice.

• Step Three: Using a silicone brush, brush each rib with the mixture until coated well but not over-coated. You will have the leftover mixture set aside for garnishing.

• Step Four: Place in the bottom of your air fryer basket (prepare with non-stick cooking spray). Place about four pieces at a time, ensuring they do not touch.
• Step Five: Cook at 400℉ for 10 to 12 minutes. When done, flip the corn ribs (they will be curled) and cook for another 5 minutes.
• Step Six: Carefully remove the corn ribs using a pair of tongs and repeat step 5 for the remaining uncooked ribs.
• Step Seven: Garnish corn ribs with the extra mixture (sling or drizzle on with a spoon), crumbled cotija cheese, and tajin seasoning.

What to Serve With Them

Serve as a side dish with your favorite summer main dishes. 

• Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeno Burgers
• Honey Sriracha Chicken 
• Grilled Flank Steak

Variations and Substitutions

• Grill the corn ribs: Instead of using an air fryer, you can grill the corn ribs on a preheated grill. Brush them with the mixture and grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until they are charred and tender. This method will infuse the corn ribs with a delightful smoky flavor.
• Kick up the spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture if you prefer some heat. This will give the corn ribs an extra kick and spice up the flavors.
• Add lime zest: Add some freshly grated lime zest to the mixture for an extra citrus flavor. This will intensify the lime flavor and add a bright note to this summer side.
• Switch the cheese: Queso fresco works fine in this recipe if you can’t find cotija cheese. You can also use feta, but it won’t have the same pronounced flavor.

Storage Instructions

If this delicious side dish has leftovers (which is highly unlikely), you can store them in the refrigerator. Before storing this recipe, allow the corn ribs to cool to room temperature and then transfer them to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. 

Can I Freeze?

It’s not recommended to freeze the air fryer corn ribs. Freezing can negatively affect the corn’s texture and taste, making it much less enjoyable. Enjoying the corn ribs fresh or storing them in the refrigerator for a few days is best.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh corn: Look for corn on the cob that is fresh and in-season for the best flavor and texture. The sweetness and juiciness of the corn will significantly enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Use a sharp knife: When cutting the corn into quarters, use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. This will ensure the corn ribs are all the same shapes and sizes so they cook evenly.
• Brush the ribs lightly: Brush them lightly when coating the corn ribs with the mixture. You want to coat them well but not overly saturate them, as this can make them too greasy.
• Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket by cooking the corn ribs in batches. This allows for better air circulation and more evenly cooked and crispy corn ribs. Add a single layer of corn ribs into your air fryer to cook each batch properly.
• Flip the ribs: When flipping the corn ribs, use tongs to turn them over carefully. This ensures that both sides get evenly cooked and achieve a beautiful golden brown color.
• Adjust cooking time if needed: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the air fryer model and the thickness of the corn ribs. Keep an eye on them while cooking and adjust the time if necessary. You want the corn ribs to be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your air fryer corn ribs immediately after cooking. The crispy exterior and tender interior are at their best when enjoyed fresh.

What Are They?

Want a cool and unique way to enjoy corn on the cob? Corn ribs are corn cobs sliced lengthwise into quarters, resulting in rib-like pieces. They look really neat when they are done and taste delicious. 

How to Cut the Corn

To cut the corn for corn ribs, you will start by husking the corn. Remove the outer green husk and any remaining silk strands. Then, peel off all the layers until you’re left with the clean corn cob.

Place the husked corn cob on a cutting board and hold it firmly with one hand to prevent it from rolling.

Make sure you have a sharp knife on hand and make a vertical cut down the length of the cob, starting from the top and going all the way to the bottom. This will split the cob into two halves.

Take each half of the cob and make another vertical cut down the middle. This will leave you with gorgeous corn ribs that are perfectly uniform and ready to cook. 

Can I Use Frozen Corn? 

No, you cannot use frozen corn kernels to make air fryer corn ribs. The process of creating corn ribs requires a whole corn cob that is cut into quarters or halves lengthwise.

Frozen corn kernels are unsuitable for this recipe because they are separated from the cob and lack the structure necessary to form corn ribs. It’s important to use whole corn cobs to achieve this recipe’s desired rib-like shape and texture.

Can I Add Other Toppings or Garnishes?

Absolutely! Adding additional toppings or garnishes to the corn ribs can elevate the flavor of the corn and create a unique dish. 

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil over the corn ribs to add a pop of freshness and aromatic notes.
• Hot sauce or chili flakes: For those who enjoy the heat, drizzle your favorite hot sauce or sprinkle chili flakes over the corn ribs to add a spicy kick.
• Lime wedges: Serve the corn ribs with lime wedges on the side to squeeze fresh lime juice over them. The citrusy tang will brighten up the flavors.
• Lemon wedges: Lemon juice can add a delicious flavor to sweet corn. Switch up the lime for lemon, or use them both together.
• Smoked paprika: Dust the corn ribs with some smoked paprika for a smoky and slightly spicy flavor profile.
• Green onions or chives: Finely chop green onions or chives and sprinkle them over the corn ribs for added color and a subtle onion flavor.
• Cilantro-lime crema: Prepare a cilantro-lime crema by blending fresh cilantro, lime juice, sour cream, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle this creamy and zesty sauce over the corn ribs for extra richness.
• Bacon bits: Crumble cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the corn ribs for a savory and crispy addition.
• Honey or maple syrup: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over the corn ribs before serving. This can create a delightful balance of sweet and savory.

No matter what you choose to add, these delicious corn riblets will surely be an absolute favorite of everyone who tries them.

Can I Use Different Types of Corn?

Yes, you can use different types of corn, such as white or yellow, for this recipe. Both white and yellow corn offer unique flavors and sweetness, so feel free to choose whichever variety you enjoy or have available.

When using different types of corn, the cooking time and texture may vary slightly due to moisture content and sweetness variations. Keep an eye on the corn ribs as they cook in the air fryer, and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired level of tenderness and crispiness.

Dipping Sauces

Serving corn ribs with dipping sauces can add variety to this fun snack. Pick your favorite sauce and have a blast with this perfect side dish.

• Spicy aioli
• Chipotle ranch
• Avocado crema
• Cilantro-lime yogurt sauce
• Smoky BBQ sauce
• Salsa verde

How to Eat

You want to bite the kernels off the cob to eat corn ribs. It’s comparable to eating regular corn off the cob. The cob is too tough to eat, but once you have eaten all the kernels, you can chew the cob to get out all the delicious flavor. 

How to Reheat? 

• Step One: Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F.
• Step Two: Place the leftover corn ribs on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding.
• Step Three: If the corn ribs have dried out slightly, lightly brush them with melted butter or olive oil to add moisture.
• Step Four: Place the baking sheet or air fryer basket in the preheated oven or air fryer and reheat the corn ribs for approximately 5 to 8 minutes or until they are heated.
• Step Five: Keep a close eye on the corn ribs during reheating to prevent them from overcooking or becoming excessively dry. The goal is to warm them while preserving their original texture and flavors.
• Step Six: Carefully remove the corn ribs from the oven or air fryer once heated.
• Step Seven: Allow the corn ribs to cool slightly before serving, as they will be hot. Take caution while handling.
• Step Eight: Serve the reheated corn ribs as desired, either as a snack or as a side dish accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces or additional toppings.

Can You Fry Corn Ribs?

Absolutely! It is entirely possible to fry your corn ribs on the stovetop. You can start by prepping the corn ribs, husking them, and removing the corn silks. Then, cut your corn ribs lengthwise into quarters. 

Once you start frying, heat some oil in a deep frying pan. You will want enough oil in the pan to fully submerge your corn ribs so that they fry up nicely. Drop a small piece of corn in the oil to check if your oil is ready. If the oil is ready for cooking, the oil should sizzle right away. 

Once your oil is ready, gently add your corn ribs to the pan and let the frying begin. Keep a close eye on them, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. It usually takes about 3-5 minutes for them to turn golden brown and be ready to get out of their hot oil bath. 

Remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and carefully put your corn ribs on top of a paper towel to drain them. Transfer them to a bowl and season them with the mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, tajin, and lime juice. 

Can I Use an Oven Instead?

Yes, you can use an oven instead of an air fryer to make corn ribs. It’s important to adjust the cooking time and temperature to ensure the best results. Just remember, every oven is different, so it’s recommended to preheat your oven to 400℉ and then work from there.

When using an oven, bake the corn ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking. Keep in mind that oven baking may require you to cook your corn a little longer than it would if you were using the air fryer. 

Periodically check on the corn ribs as they bake. The corn ribs should turn golden brown and become crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.

Air Fryer Recipes 

• Air Fryer Crab Cakes
• Air Fryer Pasta Chips
• Air Fryer Chocolate Croissants
• Air Fryer Caramel Cheesecake Chimichangas
• Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Corn Recipes

• Corn Salad
• Corn Salsa 
• Corn Chowder 
• Cheesy Corn Casserole
• Southern Corn Cake
• Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
• Corn Fritters

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