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Crispy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob with Elote Butter

crispy air fryer corn on the cob - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, flavorful corn on the cob with a smoky, spicy elote-style butter using an air fryer for quick and easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix together softened unsalted butter, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fold in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. Set aside.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  3. Husk the corn and remove all silk strands. Pat dry with a paper towel. Optionally brush lightly with oil or melted butter.
  4. Place corn ears in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes, turning halfway through. Add 1-2 more minutes if a crispier texture is desired.
  5. Remove corn from the air fryer and immediately brush generously with the prepared elote-style butter.
  6. Optionally sprinkle extra cotija cheese and cilantro on top. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Pat corn dry to ensure crispness. Turn corn halfway through cooking for even browning. Use softened butter for easy spreading. Adjust chili powder for desired heat. Can substitute vegan butter and dairy-free mayo for dairy-free version. Broiling is an alternative cooking method if no air fryer is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn on the cob, air fryer, elote butter, crispy corn, Mexican street food, easy side dish, summer recipe