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Crispy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe with Herb Butter

crispy air fryer corn on the cob - featured image

This easy summer side features sweet, juicy corn on the cob cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer and finished with a flavorful homemade herb butter. It’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn, remove all silk, rinse under cool water, and pat dry. Trim ends if needed to fit in your air fryer basket.
  2. Place corn on a plate and lightly coat each ear with olive oil using a basting brush. Sprinkle evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  4. Arrange corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway with tongs, until golden and lightly blistered. Add 2 minutes for larger ears.
  5. While corn cooks, mix softened butter, parsley, chives, thyme, garlic (if using), and lemon zest in a small bowl until creamy. Add a pinch of flaky salt to taste.
  6. Transfer hot, crispy corn to a serving platter and immediately spread herb butter over each ear.
  7. For extra flavor, sprinkle with additional herbs or a dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes before serving.
  8. Troubleshooting: If corn isn’t crisping, check air fryer temperature or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Microwave butter for 5 seconds if too firm.
  9. Serve immediately. To keep warm, wrap in foil and place in a low oven (200°F) for up to 30 minutes.

Notes

For dairy-free, use vegan butter. For extra crunch, finish with a minute at 420°F. Make herb butter up to 3 days ahead. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for best results. Try variations with different herbs, spices, or cheese. Store leftovers in foil or airtight container for up to 3 days; freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer corn, corn on the cob, summer side dish, herb butter, easy corn recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free option, BBQ side, potluck, crispy corn