Corn Ribs Air Fryer Recipe
If you’re craving a snack that’s just as fun to eat as it is full of flavor, Corn Ribs Air Fryer is about to become your new obsession. Picture tender corn on the cob, sliced into bold, playful “ribs” that crisp and curl up in the air fryer—and then slathered in a creamy, zesty duo of savory cream cheese and spicy mayo. Each bite packs layers of texture, a little heat, fresh herbs, and that irresistible, sunny corn sweetness. This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, family dinners, or just treating yourself to something seriously delicious without a ton of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients for Corn Ribs Air Fryer, and each one brings its own spark to the party. These basics work together to create a creamy, tangy, and just-spicy-enough flavor explosion that turns humble corn into an absolute sensation.
- Corn on the cob: The star of the show—choose fresh, juicy ears for maximum sweetness and that signature “rib” shape when sliced.
- Cream cheese: Adds a velvety richness, helping the seasonings stick while creating a luscious crust.
- Fresh parsley: Pops of green that brighten up every bite and add an herbaceous, garden-fresh flavor.
- Garlic powder: For an aromatic kick that infuses the cream cheese layer with mellow, irresistible savory notes.
- Mayonnaise: This base for the spicy mayo drizzle brings creaminess and a touch of tang that balances the heat.
- Tabasco sauce: Just enough vinegar and heat to wake up your taste buds—feel free to adjust the amount.
- Ground chili: Adds a lingering warmth and color that’s totally craveable.
- Lime: A bright splash to squeeze over everything, making all the flavors pop.
- Jalapeños (optional): For those who like it hot, a little extra crunch and fire to finish things off in style.
How to Make Corn Ribs Air Fryer
Step 1: Prep the Corn
Start by cutting off the ends of each corn cob and removing every bit of husk and silk. Give the cobs a quick rinse to make sure they’re super clean. Now comes the fun part: grab a large, sharp knife and carefully slice each cob lengthwise into quarters—aim for even ribs so they cook perfectly and curl up nicely in the air fryer.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Spread
In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, garlic powder, and chopped parsley. Really work the mixture so it’s smooth and everything is mixed in evenly. This spread is your secret to that wonderful creamy coating that will turn into a flavorful crust when cooked.
Step 3: Brush and Coat
Using a silicone brush or the back of a spoon, generously yet thinly coat all sides of the corn ribs with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t pile it on too thick—just enough to coat them will keep the cheese from burning and let that fresh corn flavor shine.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C) and give it about 5 minutes to get nice and hot. This step helps the ribs crisp up and curl in all the right ways for that real Corn Ribs Air Fryer experience.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the corn ribs in the basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not crowded. Cook for about 8 minutes in total, flipping them halfway for even coloring. You’re aiming for curl, char, and crispiness—watch as they transform into beautiful “ribs” that practically jump off the plate.
Step 6: Mix the Spicy Mayo
While the corn is crisping, stir the mayonnaise, ground chili, and Tabasco sauce together in a fresh bowl. This spicy mayo is the finishing touch that rounds out all the flavors and adds a creamy, tangy zip.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
When the corn ribs are golden and curled, transfer them to a serving plate. Immediately drizzle with your spicy mayo, sprinkle with diced jalapeños if you love heat, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve extra lime wedges on the side for anyone who wants even more zing.
How to Serve Corn Ribs Air Fryer
Garnishes
For next-level Corn Ribs Air Fryer, always finish with bright, colorful garnishes. Scatter diced jalapeños for a pop of color and a spicy crunch, and don’t forget that irresistible squeeze of lime to kick up the freshness. A few extra parsley leaves also add eye-catching green and a woodsy aroma.
Side Dishes
Pair your corn ribs with all sorts of sides: think crisp salads, loaded nachos, or a simple black bean salsa for a Tex-Mex touch. They also shine alongside grilled meats or as a playful addition to taco night—basically, anywhere you want easygoing, bold flavor and a little bit of fun.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling the curled corn ribs in a big bowl in the center of the table so everyone can grab their own. Or serve each portion on a platter lined with parchment, with lots of dipping sauces and lime wedges around the edges. For parties, stand the corn ribs upright in shot glasses filled with spicy mayo for a whimsical, grab-and-go appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Corn Ribs Air Fryer, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to two days, though the sauce is best added just before serving.
Freezing
While freshly made corn ribs have the best texture, you can freeze cooked corn ribs if you need to. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a bag or container. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To bring leftover Corn Ribs Air Fryer back to life, simply pop them into the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350 degrees F until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as this tends to make the corn soggy—let the air fryer work its magic again!
FAQs
How do I safely cut the corn into ribs?
Start by placing each cob flat on a sturdy cutting board, then slice in half vertically, keeping your fingers clear. For extra safety, use a chef’s knife with a rocking motion, and don’t rush—corn can be tough, but a steady hand does the trick.
Can I make Corn Ribs Air Fryer with frozen corn?
Fresh corn works best for cutting and flavor, but in a pinch, you can use frozen corn on the cob—just thaw completely and dry it well before slicing and seasoning to get that crispy result.
Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream cheese?
Absolutely! Use any plant-based cream cheese or try a thick cashew spread seasoned the same way. You’ll still get a creamy, flavorful coating that holds up in the air fryer.
What’s the best way to adjust the spice level?
To suit your taste, simply dial up or down the amount of ground chili and Tabasco in the mayo. For extra spice, add thin jalapeño slices on top—or skip them and just enjoy the subtle warmth from the sauce.
Can I make this recipe in the oven if I don’t have an air fryer?
Yes! Arrange the prepared corn ribs on a lined baking sheet and roast in a very hot oven (about 425 degrees F) until curled and golden, flipping halfway. The texture is slightly different, but you’ll still get all the fabulous flavors of Corn Ribs Air Fryer.
Final Thoughts
If you love transforming simple ingredients into playful, flavor-packed creations, you absolutely have to try Corn Ribs Air Fryer for your next gathering or cozy night in. Trust me, once you experience these crisp, spicy, creamy “ribs,” you’ll want to make them again and again!
Print
Corn Ribs Air Fryer Recipe
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and crispy Corn Ribs made in the Air Fryer, a perfect appetizer or side dish bursting with flavor. These corn ribs are coated in a creamy cheese mixture, air-fried to perfection, and served with a zesty spicy mayo.
Ingredients
Corn Ribs:
- 4 ears corn (husked and cut into 16 ribs)
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup (250g) cream cheese
- ¼ cup (14g) fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ tablespoon garlic powder
Spicy Mayo:
- 1 cup (250g) mayonnaise
- ½ tablespoon Tabasco sauce
- ½ tablespoon ground chili
For Serving:
- 1 lime (for serving)
- 2 jalapeños (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cut the Corn: Remove husk and silk from corn, cut into ribs.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Combine cream cheese, parsley, and garlic powder.
- Coat Corn Ribs: Brush corn ribs with cream cheese mixture.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (204°C).
- Cook Corn: Air fry corn ribs for 8 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise, chili, and Tabasco.
- Serve: Drizzle corn with spicy mayo, garnish with jalapeños, lime, and serve.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels to taste.
- Ensure cream cheese layer is thin to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn ribs
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Corn Ribs, Air Fryer, Appetizer, Vegetarian, Spicy Mayo
