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Crispy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob Recipe with Easy Elote Butter and Tajín

crispy air fryer corn on the cob - featured image

A quick and flavorful recipe for crispy, juicy corn on the cob made in the air fryer, topped with creamy elote butter and spicy Tajín seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 68 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons Tajín seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A few tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Husk and clean the ears of corn thoroughly. Trim the ends if needed to fit in the air fryer basket (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, crumbled cotija cheese, fresh lime juice, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy (3-5 minutes). Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  4. Using a brush or spatula, spread a generous layer of the elote butter all over each ear of corn.
  5. Place the buttered corn in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden with slightly charred spots and crispy exterior.
  6. Immediately sprinkle Tajín seasoning all over the hot corn after air frying.
  7. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

Use softened butter, not melted, for better coating. Preheat the air fryer for crispier corn. Turn corn halfway through cooking for even browning. Do not overcrowd the basket. For vegan version, substitute vegan butter and plant-based cheese. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. Add fresh lime juice before serving leftovers to refresh flavor.

Nutrition

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