Air Fryer Corn Ribs with Spiced Butter and BBQ Dipping Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Corn ribs are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy fresh corn on the cob with a crispy edge and tender inside. This air fryer recipe makes them easy to prepare, perfect as a snack or a side dish with your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 4 corn on the cob ears
• 3 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil (optional)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut off the ends of the corn, remove the husks and silk, then rinse and clean each ear thoroughly.
2. Step 2: Microwave the ears for 2 minutes to soften them, then let them cool for 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Using a sharp knife, place each ear vertically and slice it in half, then cut each half into quarters to create four ribs per ear.
4. Step 4: If cutting into ribs is difficult, slice the ears in half horizontally to make 8 shorter ribs instead.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and fresh herbs if using, until well combined.
6. Step 6: Brush the corn ribs on all sides with the butter mixture using a pastry brush or spoon.
7. Step 7: Arrange the corn ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
8. Step 8: Air fry at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the ribs halfway through. They should curl, become lightly charred, and crispy when done.
9. Step 9: Mix the mayonnaise and BBQ sauce in a small bowl to make a simple dipping sauce. Serve with your favorite dips like whipped feta, ranch, or melted butter.

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the butter mixture.
• Try fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme for different flavor notes.
• For a vegetarian option, use plant-based butter and mayonnaise.
• Make extra dipping sauces such as garlic aioli or chipotle mayo for variety.

Storage

Store leftover corn ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn to make corn ribs?

Fresh corn works best for corn ribs because it holds its shape when cut and crisps up nicely. Frozen corn is not suitable as it lacks the cob needed to create the rib shape.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the corn ribs in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to get a similar crispy texture.

Air Fryer Corn Ribs with Spiced Butter and BBQ Dipping Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 165 reviews

This Air Fryer Corn Ribs recipe transforms fresh corn on the cob into crispy, flavorful ribs using a quick and easy air frying method. Seasoned with a smoky butter mixture and served with a tangy mayo-BBQ dipping sauce, these corn ribs make a perfect appetizer or side dish with a satisfying crunch and a hint of char.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings (approximately 32 corn ribs) 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Corn Ribs

• 4 ears of corn on the cob
• 3 tablespoons softened butter
• 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

Dipping Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the corn: Cut off the ends of each ear of corn. Remove the husks and silk threads thoroughly. Rinse and clean each ear to remove all silks.
2. Soften the corn: Microwave the ears on high for 2 minutes to slightly soften the kernels, making them easier to cut. Let the ears cool for 5 minutes after microwaving.
3. Slice into ribs: Using a sharp knife, place an ear vertically and cut it in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into quarters, resulting in four ribs per ear. If cutting is difficult, cut the ear in half horizontally first, then slice to create 8 shorter ribs.
4. Make the butter seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with paprika, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs (if using), and salt. Combine thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Brush the corn ribs: Using a silicone pastry brush or spoon, coat all sides of the corn ribs with the prepared butter mixture ensuring full coverage.
6. Arrange in the air fryer: Place the corn ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, taking care not to overcrowd for even cooking.
7. Air fry: Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip the ribs halfway through at 5-6 minutes to ensure even charring and crispiness. They will curl slightly with a light char when done.
8. Prepare dipping sauce: While the corn cooks, mix mayonnaise and BBQ sauce in a small bowl until smooth for a creamy, tangy dipping sauce. Alternative dips like whipped feta, ranch dressing, or melted butter work well too.
9. Serve: Remove corn ribs from the air fryer, serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Microwaving softens the corn slightly, making it easier and safer to slice into ribs.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the butter mixture.
• Ensure ribs are in a single layer in the air fryer to get crispy edges without steaming.
• Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the air fryer model; monitor the corn closely to avoid burning.
• You can prepare the butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• This recipe works well with fresh corn; avoid frozen corn as it won’t hold shape for ribs.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.

Keywords: air fryer corn ribs, crispy corn ribs, corn on the cob appetizer, air fryer recipes, easy corn side dish, smoky corn ribs, BBQ corn ribs