Easy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe – Smoked Paprika Spice

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe – Smoked Paprika Spice

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you absolutely love the sweet, juicy goodness of corn on the cob. But honestly, sometimes boiling or grilling just feels like… too much effort. That’s where this air fryer recipe comes in! It’s seriously a game-changer, delivering perfectly cooked corn with a delicious smoky kick in just 15 minutes. I first made this when I was craving a quick and easy side dish for a weeknight dinner, and it’s been a family favorite ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer corn on the cob is unbelievably simple and fast. Forget about waiting for water to boil or fussing with the grill. It’s also wonderfully flavorful – the smoked paprika adds a lovely depth that takes it beyond your average corn. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Honestly, what’s not to love?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 2 Corn on the cob
• 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Powder (or to taste)
• Salt to taste
• ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika (plus extra for garnish)
• Finely chopped cilantro/coriander for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec!

• Smoked Paprika: This is the star of the show! It adds a beautiful smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn. Don’t skimp on this one – it really makes a difference. You can find it in most supermarkets or online.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. It helps the spices adhere to the corn and gives it a lovely sheen. But feel free to use any cooking oil you have on hand.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super easy, I promise.

1. First things first, shuck the corn and remove all those silky threads. Give it a good rinse and pat it dry.
2. Now, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 3-4 minutes. This ensures the corn cooks evenly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika.
4. Place the corn in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Brush each cob generously with the oil-spice mixture.
5. Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for 15 minutes, flipping the corn halfway through. This ensures all sides get beautifully cooked.
6. Once it’s done, garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and a generous helping of fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

• Don’t overcrowd the basket! Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• For extra flavor, you can marinate the corn in the spice mixture for 15-20 minutes before air frying.
• Keep a close eye on the corn during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level Adjustment: My family loves a little heat, so I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture. For a milder flavor, simply omit the cayenne.
• Chili-Lime Corn: Add a teaspoon of chili powder and the zest of one lime to the spice mixture for a zesty kick. My friend, Priya, swears by this one!
• Garlic Herb Corn: Mix in a clove of minced garlic and a teaspoon of your favorite dried herbs (like oregano or thyme) to the oil-spice mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This air fryer corn on the cob is the perfect side dish for just about anything!

• It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish.
• It’s a fantastic addition to a summer barbecue.
• Serve it alongside your favorite Indian curries for a delicious and colorful meal.

Storage Instructions

Leftover corn on the cob can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispness.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

1. What’s the best way to tell if corn on the cob is fresh?

Look for husks that are bright green and tightly wrapped. The silk should be slightly damp and golden. Gently press a fingernail into a kernel – if it’s milky, it’s fresh!

2. Can I use other oils besides Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter. Each will impart a slightly different flavor.

3. Can I prepare the spice mixture ahead of time?

Yes, definitely! You can mix the spices together and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

4. How do I adjust cooking time for different air fryer models?

Air fryers can vary, so it’s always best to start with the recommended cooking time and check for doneness. If the corn isn’t tender enough, add a few more minutes.

5. What if I don’t have smoked paprika – what can I substitute?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika, but it won’t have the same smoky flavor. A pinch of chipotle powder can also add a similar smoky note.