Print

Crispy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob with Cotija Butter Sauce

crispy air fryer corn on the cob with cotija butter sauce - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy air fryer corn on the cob topped with a creamy, salty cotija butter sauce that’s perfect for last-minute gatherings and outdoor parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, crumbled cotija cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Microwave for 10 seconds if butter is too hard.
  3. Using a spoon or butter knife, spread a generous layer of the cotija butter sauce all over each ear of corn.
  4. Place 2 ears of corn at a time in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, turning the ears halfway through cooking with kitchen tongs, until golden and slightly charred.
  6. If cooking in batches, keep cooked corn warm wrapped in foil or a clean kitchen towel.
  7. Once all corn is cooked, brush each ear with any leftover cotija butter sauce and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Keep the air fryer basket lightly oiled before cooking to prevent sticking. Turn the corn halfway through cooking for even crispiness. Avoid overcooking to prevent burning the butter sauce. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer corn, crispy corn on the cob, cotija butter sauce, quick side dish, easy corn recipe, party side, gluten-free corn recipe