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If you haven’t tried corn ribs yet, get ready to fall in love! These smoky, crispy, air-fried (or oven-baked) beauties are a fun twist on corn on the cob, cut into rib-like slices that curl up as they cook. They’re packed with flavor, easy to eat, and completely customizable with your favorite toppings.
We love hosting themed get-togethers at our house, and this recipe was born during a fun Mexican-themed night with friends and family. I wanted to serve something a little playful and unexpected—something that brought that smoky, roasted corn flavor we all love, but in a bite-sized, easy-to-eat way. Enter: corn ribs!
They’re a fun twist on classic corn-on-the-cob, but easier to serve, easier to eat, and perfect for dipping, topping, or just grabbing and going. Whether you’re making them for a backyard BBQ, a game day spread, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe gives you a flavorful base to work from—plus tons of topping ideas so you can dress them up for any occasion.
You’ll find instructions for the air fryer and oven, tips for cutting the corn safely (because let’s be honest—it’s not the easiest task), and ideas for how to prep ahead and store leftovers. This one’s a keeper, y’all!
Why We Love this Corn Rib Recipe!
- Simple and Fast: These are super simple to put together and they cook really fast! Meaning they are on the table quickly.
- Nice and crispy edges!
- You can use less fat! You don’t need a lot of fat to get that fried corn taste.
- Versatile: You can make them in the air fryer, oven, and pan fry.
What are Corn Rib or Riblets?
The corn cob acts a bit like a ‘bone’, acting as something to hold while you eat the juicy corn kernels– much like eating ribs! A smoky rub takes them to the next level, so whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a side at a BBQ, they’ll keep your friends and family coming back for more!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Corn Ribs
- Ears of Corn: Pick fresh corn at a local farmer’s market or in the grocery store. You can even get them already shucked and cleaned in the produce section of the store for added convenience.
- Olive Oil or Butter: Use your favorite olive oil to keep these vegan or lighter. Go for real butter for an amazing buttery flavor!
- Seasonings: Smoked paprika and garlic are the perfect blend for corn ribs. Then add a little salt & black pepper to your taste. However, you can really add any seasonings you like.
See Variations and Substitutions for some great flavor combinations and topping ideas.
How to Make Air Fryer Corn Ribs
✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and full recipe instructions!
Step 1 | Prepare Corncobs
Take each whole ear of corn remove any husks and corn silks/threads from the corn cobs.
Step 2 | Slice Corncobs
Using a chef’s knife, very carefully cut each cub into lengthways quarters. Start by standing the corn upright (vertically) with the widest end on a cutting board, then using a very sharp knife, gently apply pressure rocking back and to cut through the center of the cob.
Then slice it again into quarters. Repeat for each cob. (Cutting the halves can be a little more tricky because they’re less stable when held vertically).
* An Alternative Cutting Method is to lay the half cobs down on the chopping board, flat side down, which provides more stability. This method has the cut going against the grain so can be more challenging to get the knife through – a rolling pin can be used to hit the back of the knife to break through the cob.
Step 3 | Make Corn Rib Marinade Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Then with a little salt and pepper (to taste) in order to make the rub. Next, lay out the quartered cobs on a tray or board and use a pastry brush to evenly coat them with seasoned oil or butter.
Step 4 | Air Fry Corn Riblets
Evenly lay out the seasoned corn ribs in the air fryer basket. Cook until tender and the edges have started to brown and crisp.
Depending on the size of your basket, you may need to make them in batches, to prevent the slices of corn from sitting on top of each other.
They should be in a single layer.
How To Bake Oven Corn Ribs
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lay out the corn ribs on a non-stick or parchment-lined baking sheet and put them in the oven and bake until tender and the edges have started to brown and crisp.
Tips
- Use a sharp knife: Corn cobs are tough to cut, so a sharp, sturdy knife is key. A dull blade makes it harder and more dangerous. Always keep your fingers tucked in (like a claw) and away from the blade for safety.
- Microwave the corn first for easier cutting: Want to make slicing even easier? Place the whole cobs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 2 to 3 minutes. Let them cool slightly, then cut. This softens the corn just enough to make slicing into “ribs” more manageable.
- Adjust cook times as needed: Every air fryer and oven heats a little differently. Start checking your corn ribs a few minutes before the suggested time and adjust as needed so they don’t overcook or burn.
- Double the rub for extra flavor: Consider making a little extra of the seasoning rub or garlic butter. Halfway through cooking, you can brush on a bit more to boost flavor and keep the corn nice and juicy.
- Get creative with toppings and seasonings: This recipe is just the beginning! Once the corn ribs are cooked, you can dress them up any way you like. From garlic butter and parmesan to cotija cheese with a squeeze of lime, the possibilities are endless. Try different spice blends, sauces, or dips to match your menu or mood. Be sure to check out the Toppings & Variations section below for some of my favorite ideas to mix things up!
Air Fryer Corn Ribs Variations and Substitutions
Classic & Crowd-Pleasing
- Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan or feta.
- Finish with a pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice.
- Add a pop of color with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or green onions.
Spicy & Bold
- Sprinkle on cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a spicy Cajun seasoning blend.
- Drizzle with sriracha mayo, chipotle mayo, or your favorite hot sauce for some heat.
- Toss in a little BBQ rub and finish with a drizzle of barbecue sauce for smoky heat
Tex-Mex & Taco Inspired
- Use a taco seasoning mix, fajita seasoning, or elote seasoning and a squeeze of lime.
- Go full Mexican street corn style with cotija cheese, cilantro, and Mexican crema.
- Serve with lime wedges for brightness and a finishing touch.
Mediterranean Vibes
- Sprinkle with Greek seasoning and top with crumbled feta.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki for dipping.
Sweet & Unexpected
- Try a light dusting of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist.
- A drizzle of honey butter or even maple syrup can turn these into a fun sweet-savory snack.
Dips & Drizzles
- Serve with ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, elote sauce, or even avocado crema on the side for dipping.
- Mix and match your dips based on your toppings to make it even more interactive for guests.
Seasoning Shortcuts
- Don’t forget about your favorite pantry staples like lemon pepper, ranch seasoning, or Italian seasoning—they all make quick and easy flavor boosters!
How to Store and Reheat Air Fried Corn Ribs
To Prep Ahead:
- Cut the corn ribs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Mix the seasoning rub in advance and keep it sealed on the counter or fridge.
- You can even season the ribs early and refrigerate them until ready to cook (up to 24 hours).
Leftovers & Reheating:
- Store leftover corn ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to crisp them back up.
- Or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- You can microwave them, but it will soften the texture.
Air Fried Corn Ribs FAQs
These corn riblets became popular on TikTok and are now very popular here online. They are unique, fun, and perfect handheld food. And this air fryer version of corn ribs makes them even simpler and quicker to make. There is also an oven method included in case you don’t have an air fryer.
The corn rib is attached to the cob, so you should eat it as if you are eating corn on the cob – or a bone in rib.
To fry corn ribs, do not season before frying. Add ½ inch deep frying oil to a skillet. As soon as the oil is hot (about 350°F) add to the skillet and turn with tongs to brown all sides of the corn riblets. Remove and drain on paper towels. Then toss or brush with the garlic butter.
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What to Serve with Air Fryer Corn Ribs
Main Dishes
These corn ribs pair beautifully with both grilled and oven-baked proteins. Here are a few favorites:
- Grilled Chicken – Think BBQ, honey chiptole, or even a marinated grilled chicken.
- Pulled Pork – That smoky paprika in the corn rub plays perfectly with sweet or tangy pulled pork.
- Burgers or Sliders – A juicy burger with all the fixings and a side of corn ribs? Yes, please!
- Smoked or Grilled Sausages – Try with andouille, bratwurst, or even hot dogs for a cookout-style meal.
- BBQ Ribs or Brisket – Keep it smoky and Southern with slow-cooked or smoked meats.
- Fish – This is perfect with fish tacos.
Salads & Lighter Sides
Corn ribs already bring flavor and texture, so pair them with something fresh:
- Creamy Coleslaw – That cool crunch is the perfect contrast to warm, spicy corn.
- Tomato & Cucumber Salad – A zesty vinegar-based dressing keeps things bright.
- Avocado Salad or Guacamole – Creaminess that balances the smoky corn flavor.
- Watermelon & Feta Salad – Light, refreshing, and a bit salty-sweet.
Grains & Starches
If you’re building a bigger meal, round it out with one of these:
- Mexican Rice or Cilantro Lime Rice
- Mac and Cheese – The ultimate comfort food combo!
- Potatoes or Potato Wedges
- Cornbread or Cheddar Biscuits – You can never have too much corn!
More Side Dish Recipes to Try
- Creamy Cucumber and Tomato Salad
- Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
- Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
- Columbia Restaurants 1905 Salad
- Stuffed Bacon and Cheddar Burgers
- Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce
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Easy Air Fryer Corn Ribs
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 corn cobs
- 4 tablespoons olive oil - (you can also use butter)
- 2 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- salt - to taste
- black pepper - to taste
Instructions
- Remove any husks and corn silks/threads from the corn cobs.
- Stand the cob upright on a sturdy cutting board with the wider end flat on the surface.
- Using a very sharp, heavy knife, slice the cob very carefully straight down the center (lengthwise). Rock the knife gently back and forth if needed. Keep your fingers tucked in and out of the way!
- Repeat this process with each half, cutting again lengthwise to make quarters.(Cutting the halves can be a little trickier because they’re less stable when held vertically). Then repeat the process for each cob.* See Notes for an alternative cutting method
- Make Rub: In a small bowl, mix the oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Next, lay out the quartered cobs on a tray or board and use a pastry brush to coat them evenly with the rub mix.
- Using an air fryer: Evenly lay out the seasoned corn ribs in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 375°F and air fry corns ribs for 10-12 minutes, until tender and the edges have started to brown and crisp. Depending on the size of your basket, you may need to make them in batches, to prevent the slices of corn from sitting on top of each other. They should be in a single layer and leave a little space in between the pieces of corn.
- Using an oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F Lay out the corn ribs on a non-stick or parchment-lined baking sheet and put in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until tender and the edges have started to brown and crisp. For an extra char turn on the broiler setting for a minute or two. Just keep an eye on them so they don't burn.
- To garnish, brush with melted butter and sprinkle on desired toppings. *See the variations section for flavor combinations and topping recommendations.
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Notes
Alternative Method (Flat Cutting)
If you’re not comfortable standing the corn upright or want more control:- Cut the cob in half crosswise so it’s easier to handle.
- Lay the half cob flat-side down on your cutting board to create a more stable surface.
- Carefully slice lengthwise into quarters.
-
- You’ll be cutting against the grain so that it may take a little more pressure.
- A sharp, sturdy knife makes a big difference here—don’t force it with a dull blade.
-
- Use a sharp knife: Corn cobs are tough to cut, so a sharp, sturdy knife is key. A dull blade makes it harder and more dangerous. Always keep your fingers tucked in (like a claw) and away from the blade for safety.
- Microwave the corn first for easier cutting: Want to make slicing even easier? Place the whole cobs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 2 to 3 minutes. Let them cool slightly, then cut. This softens the corn just enough to make slicing into “ribs” more manageable.
- Adjust cook times as needed: Every air fryer and oven heats a little differently. Start checking your corn ribs a few minutes before the suggested time and adjust as needed to prevent overcooking or burning.
