Easy Air Fryer Corn Ribs

Overhead image of a bowl of air fryer corn ribs set on a wooden tray.

5 from 2 votes

Air Fryer Corn Ribs are the perfect side, snack, or appetizer made with fresh corn on the cob. These corn riblets are brushed with olive oil or butter, seasoned to perfection, and fried to crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Author: Nikki Lee

Servings: 16 riblets - serves 4

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Equipment

1 air fryer

Ingredients

Get Recipe Ingredients

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.

Air Fryer Instructions

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.

Oven Instructions

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.

Garnish

To garnish, brush with melted butter and sprinkle on desired toppings.
*See the variations section for flavor combinations and topping recommendations.

Video

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.

RECIPE 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 to prevent overcooking or burning.

Nutrition

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