Crispy Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob (Air Fryer Recipe)

Try this air fryer garlic parmesan corn on the cob — an easy, flavorful way to get grilled-style corn without firing up the grill. Air frying delivers juicy, slightly crisp kernels and the garlic-parmesan topping adds a savory finish that’s hard to resist.

air fryer garlic corn in basket

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Corn Recipe

The classic pairing of garlic and parmesan works beautifully on air-fried corn on the cob. If you haven’t tried cooking corn in the air fryer, you’ll be pleasantly surprised: the kernels cook quickly, stay juicy, and pick up a subtle char that mimics the grill. This recipe is fast, simple, and perfect as a side for weeknight dinners or summer meals.

air fryer corn on plate

Video: How to Air Fry Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Corn

  • Use fresh corn when possible — it’s the sweetest and juiciest.
  • If using unsalted butter, season to taste; salted butter already contains salt.
  • Grated parmesan adheres better to the corn than thicker shredded varieties.
  • This recipe uses garlic powder for convenience. If you prefer fresh garlic, add minced garlic in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking to avoid burning.
  • If you like heat, drizzle with sriracha or another hot sauce before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • All recipe details are in the recipe card below.
corn in air fryer baset

Can You Use Frozen Corn on the Cob?

Yes. If cooking from frozen, add 2–3 minutes to the cook time and check for doneness because air fryer models vary. You can also thaw the corn first, which may reduce cooking time since some frozen corn is pre-cooked and only needs reheating.

Other Toppings to Consider for Air Fryer Parmesan Corn

  • Hot sauce such as sriracha or Tabasco
  • Nutritional yeast for a cheesy, dairy-free option
  • Grated cheddar
  • Montreal steak seasoning for a savory twist

Plant-Based / Vegan Version

To make this vegan, use vegan butter and nutritional or brewer’s yeast in place of parmesan for a cheesy flavor. Use a vegan butter spread and sprinkle nutritional yeast after air frying for best results.

air fryer garlic corn in basket

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Corn On The Cob

Yield: 3 servings
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
You can use minced fresh garlic if preferred; add it near the end of cooking to keep it from burning. Adjust the number of ears to fit a single layer in your air fryer basket — larger loads may need more cook time.
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Ingredients

  • 3 ears fresh corn, shucked and cleaned
  • 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder, or to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan, or to taste
  • 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) chopped parsley

Equipment

  • Air fryer

Instructions

  • Shuck and clean the corn, removing husks and silk. Trim the ends or cut ears in half if needed to fit your air fryer basket.
  • Coat all sides of each ear with the softened butter.
  • Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Place the corn in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray.
  • Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10 minutes, then flip the corn.
  • Continue air frying another 3–8 minutes, until the corn is tender and cooked to your liking. Times vary with ear size, basket fullness, and air fryer model.
  • Remove the corn, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Video

Nutrition Information per Serving

Calories: 184 kcal,
Carbohydrates: 19 g,
Protein: 6 g,
Fat: 11 g
Course: Side Dish, Snack, Vegetables
Cuisine: American
Calories: 184

More Great Corn Recipes

  • Buttery 5-minute corn on the cob in the microwave
  • Grilled garlic corn
  • Chicken and corn salad — a refreshing option
  • Stovetop cheese corn dip