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    Home » Recipes

    Mar 3, 2021 · Modified: Jan 27, 2023 by Carita · This post may contain affiliate links · 23 Comments

    How To Make Air Fryer Corn Ribs, Elotes Style-Recipe Video

    These elotes style corn ribs prepared in the air fryer are the new craze trending on Tik Tok! Ready in under 20 minutes, these corn "riblets" are bursting with tangy, chili and savory flavors.

    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with with top down focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom and two wedges of lime.
    Elotes Style Air Fryer Corn Riblets

    If you like recipes like this, you'll love this Tex Mex Nacho Charcuterie Board, Mexican Pizza with Shredded Chicken or Southwestern Egg Rolls with Spicy Avocado Ranch!

    WHAT ARE THE TIK TOK AIR FRYER CORN RIBS?

    If you've been under a rock, Tik Tok provides the latest trends from food to DIY hacks. One of the trends floating around are corn "ribs" prepared in the air fryer, giving a resemblance of bbq'd ribs.

    Most Tik Tok food hacks are fun to prepare and devour and this hack did not disappoint! Fresh corn on the cob is sliced in half and then quartered. This dish makes for a fun snack or side dish and bursts with flavor!

    For instance, there are several ways to season and style these corn riblets. Prepared elotes style or Mexican Street Corn flavor, these riblets are satisfying until the last kernel is gone.

    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with multiple corn "ribs" in focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom and two wedges of lime.
    Tik Tok Corn Ribs, Elotes Style

    WHAT MAKES THESE CORN RIBLETS MEXICAN STREET CORN FLAVORED?

    Mexican Street Corn is prepared off the cob and served in a cup. The corn is grilled, drizzled with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice and topped with Tajin (and sometimes Cilantro).

    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with one corn "rib" in focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom, a squeezed wedge of lime and corn husks.
    Tik Tok Corn Ribs, Elotes Style

    For one thing, this recipe holds true to the flavors of Mexican Street Corn. If you've never tried this style of corn, this is the perfect way to taste test.

    The corn "riblets" are prepared to a crispy texture, topped with cotija cheese and served on a bed of charred roasted poblano peppers.

    WHAT INGREDIENTS ARE IN AIR FRYER CORN RIBLETS RECIPE?

    The ingredients in this recipe hold true to the base of the Tik Tok trend of making corn riblets in the air fryer. With the addition of the ingredients making these true to elotes, you'll need:

    • Corn on the Cob
    • Taco Mix Seasoning
    • Smoked Salt (or Kosher Salt)
    • Garlic Powder
    • Lemon and Pepper Seasoning
    • Mayonnaise
    • Cotija Cheese (or Feta)
    • Butter (room temperature)
    • Cooking Spray
    • Poblano Pepper
    • Cilantro
    • Lime
    • Tajin

    There are several variations to this recipe, in detail there are options to substitute many of the ingredients listed above.

    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with one corn "rib" in focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom and a two wedges of lime.
    Tik Tok Corn Riblets

    HELPFUL SUBSTITUTIONS FOR MAKING CORN RIBLETS

    There's no wrong way to season and style these air fryer corn ribs, elotes style. Here are a few variations:

    • Don't have an air fryer? Prepare these corn ribs in the oven by placing the riblets on lined baking sheet on 425 degrees fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes until charred and crispy.
    • Can't locate cotija cheese? Feta cheese is an excellent option to replace cotija cheese. In detail, it's flavor and texture is very similar to cotija cheese.
    • Missing some of the listed seasonings?
      • Substitute Taco Seasoning for Chili Powder.
      • Use Kosher Salt in place of Smoked Salt.
      • Don't have a poblano pepper on hand? Jalapeno peppers thinly sliced in rounds work just as great.
    • Use butter or oil to create the paste (or compound butter) that will be spread over the corn before cooking.
    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with corner of bowl with corn riblets in focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom and a two wedges of lime.
    Air Fried Corn Riblets, Elotes Style

    HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER CORN RIBS, ELOTES STYLE

    There's one specific step in this recipe that requires a bit of skill. In detail, it took two attempts before I identified the best technique to slice the corn into riblets.

    SLICING THE CORN ON THE COB INTO "RIBS"

    First, begin by peeling the corn, removing the husk and excess debris. Rinse and clean the corn, dry and set aside.

    Next, with a sharp butchers knife, carefully slice the corn on the cob in half. Then, slice the half into quarters creating four "ribs" per corn. It's important to note, a heavy utensil may be needed to assist during this step.

    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with one corn "rib" in focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom and a squeezed wedge of lime.
    Tik Tok Corn Riblets, Elotes Style

    It it helpful to refer to the recipe video for assistance!

    SEASONING AND AIR FRYING THE ELOTES STYLE RIBS

    First, add room temperature butter to a small bowl. To that same bowl, add the listed seasonings stirring until thoroughly combined. The spread is ready when a smooth paste forms.

    Next, spread butter mixture over each corn riblet. Place riblets in the air fryer being careful not to overcrowd. Air fry corn riblets (and sliced poblano peppers, optitonal) up to 15 minutes until charred and crispy.

    While the corn riblets air fry, prep additional ingredients such as roughly chopping the cilantro and lime wedges.

    NOW IT'S TIME TO DRESS AND STYLE THE AIR FRIED CORN RIBS!

    Now, the corn riblets are ready for the last steps! Begin by using a pastry brush to spread mayonnaise over each corn rib. Then, place the corn ribs in a plate or bowl. Third, add the charred poblano pepper slices to the bowl.

    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with one corn "rib" in focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom and a squeezed wedge of lime.
    Tik Tok Corn Riblets, Elotes Style

    At this instant, take one wedge of lime and drizzle over the corn ribs. Second, sprinkle cotija or feta cheese over the plated corn riblets.

    Finally, sprinkle the elotes style corn ribs with cilantro and tajin and enjoy!

    THE BEST WAY TO STORE THE AIR FRYER CORN RIBS, ELOTES STYLE

    Now that the tasty elotes style corn ribs are prepared, serve immediately! They are best served right out of the air fryer and dressed, warm and crispy.

    If there's leftovers, which I'm certain it won't be, wrap each riblet in clear wrap or place in an airtight safe storing dish. When ready to eat, microwave each corn riblet for 10-15 seconds and enjoy.

    IF YOU TRY THIS RECIPE OUT, LET ME KNOW BY LEAVING A REVIEW BELOW!

    If you try these air fryer corn ribs, elotes style let me know by leaving a review down below! I love to connect, hear your thoughts on the recipe and how you created your own version.

    How To Make Air Fryer Corn Ribs, Elotes Style

    Don't forget to connect with me on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and Tik Tok!

    Tik Tok Trend Corn Ribs piled onto a blue bowl with multiple corn "ribs" in focus. Styled with sliced poblano peppers on the bottom and two wedges of lime.

    How To Make Air Fryer Corn Ribs, Elotes Style

    Carita
    These elotes style corn ribs prepared in the air fryer are the new craze trending on Tik Tok! Ready in under 20 minutes, these corn "riblets" are bursting with tangy, chili and savory flavors.
    4.94 from 15 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 mins
    Cook Time 10 mins
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish
    Cuisine American, Mexican
    Servings 4 people

    Equipment

    • Air Fryer

    Ingredients
      

    Elotes Dry Seasoning

    • ½ teaspoon Taco Mix Seasoning
    • ½ teaspoon Smoked Salt Kosher Salt
    • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
    • ½ teaspoon Lemon and Pepper Seasoning

    Additional Ingredients

    • 3 Ears of Corn
    • ½ cup Butter (room temperature)
    • Cooking Spray
    • 2 tablespoon Mayonnaise
    • ½ cup Cotija Cheese Feta Cheese
    • 1 small Poblano Pepper
    • ¼ cup Cilantro
    • ½ small Lime
    • ½ teaspoon Tajin

    Instructions
     

    • First, begin by peeling the corn, removing the husk and excess debris. Rinse and clean the corn, dry and set aside.
    • Next, with a sharp butchers knife, carefully slice the corn on the cob in half. Then, slice the half into quarters creating four "ribs" per corn.
    • Add room temperature butter to a small bowl. To that same bowl, add the listed seasonings stirring until thoroughly combined. The spread is ready when a smooth paste forms.
    • Next, spread butter mixture over each corn riblet and place riblets in the air fryer being careful not to overcrowd.
    • Air fry corn riblets (and sliced poblano peppers, optitonal) up to 15 minutes until charred and crispy. Air fryer oven temps and times will vary.
    • Use a pastry brush to spread mayonnaise over each corn rib. Place the corn ribs in a plate or bowl and add the charred poblano pepper slices to the bowl.
    • Take one wedge of lime and drizzle over the corn ribs.
    • Sprinkle cotija or feta cheese over the plated corn riblets.
    • Finally, sprinkle the elotes style corn ribs with cilantro and tajin and enjoy!
    Keyword Air Fryer Corn Ribs, Mexican Street Corn, Tik Tok Corn Ribs

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Marta says

      March 04, 2021 at 2:38 pm

      5 stars
      I've never in my life thought of or heard of corn ribs, but now I'm a convert. Such a fantastic way to make elotes de maiz!

      Reply
      • Carita says

        March 05, 2021 at 2:13 pm

        Same! Apparently it's a new trend but it's SO GOOD. You have to try it! 🙂

        Reply
      • Robin says

        March 08, 2021 at 1:39 am

        5 stars
        I am a Mexican Corn fanatic so this rendition was a terrific hit with my family!

        Reply
        • Carita says

          March 08, 2021 at 4:08 pm

          Awesome to hear! So happy you all enjoyed it!

          Reply
      • Anita Hill says

        May 27, 2022 at 2:58 am

        5 stars
        Carita you know I love to see your recipes they are so informative and really are the best. Give my little sweetheart a hug for me.

        Reply
    2. Kate says

      March 07, 2021 at 10:33 pm

      5 stars
      Many thanks for sharing this recipe. I especially love that it is made with poblano pepper as an ingredient. I am really looking forward to trying this.

      Reply
      • Carita says

        March 08, 2021 at 4:09 pm

        Yes! The poblano pepper was a nice addition! Thanks so much!

        Reply
    3. Cat William says

      March 08, 2021 at 2:01 am

      5 stars
      I love Elotes anything! I enjoyed this recipe because you can eat it with your hands. It has so much flavor.

      Reply
      • Carita says

        March 08, 2021 at 4:08 pm

        Yes! So good and so much fun to prepare!

        Reply
    4. Tamara says

      March 08, 2021 at 9:59 pm

      5 stars
      WOWSA! This corn was so darn delicious! My kids and I made them together this past weekend. They had a blast making them with me, and we had even more fun eating them! I will definitely be making these again very soon!

      Reply
    5. Kaluhi says

      March 09, 2021 at 9:38 am

      5 stars
      I could never hsve enough airfryer recipes!!! Loved this corn rib recipe and the lemon pepper note in particular! This was scrumptious!

      Reply
    6. Eric & Shanna Jones says

      March 09, 2021 at 2:57 pm

      5 stars
      You just took our love for elotes to new heights! This was our first time enjoying elotes this way, and wow! We are fans!! Can't wait to make it again soon.

      Reply
    7. Capri says

      March 09, 2021 at 7:22 pm

      5 stars
      WOW! These corn ribs are incredible! It was much easier to make than I thought it would be-- thanks to your step-by-step video! I'll definitely be making these again!

      Reply
    8. Chenée says

      March 10, 2021 at 6:06 am

      5 stars
      This was so fun to make and eat! I love getting elotes in the summer and this gave me the summer vibes that I've been craving right now. Thanks for an awesome recipe!

      Reply
    9. Jazz says

      March 10, 2021 at 5:48 pm

      5 stars
      These are my new favorite way to eat corn. So easy and the flavor was on point. Thank you!

      Reply
    10. Salina says

      June 11, 2021 at 7:27 pm

      4 stars
      Everything about this recipe is delicious except I will never make them into corn ribs again. Not only is it incredibly difficult to cut a corn lengthwise into quarters without it breaking into 30 pieces, but it would also just be easier to eat these if they were left intact. Again, love this recipe, the flavor is incredible, but I don’t recommend cutting them into corn ribs.

      Reply
      • Carita says

        July 10, 2021 at 4:48 pm

        Hi Salina! I'm glad you loved most everything about the recipe! The ribs are more for "fun" but glad you too agree the flavor is incredible! 🙂

        Reply
    11. Sacha says

      June 21, 2021 at 1:13 pm

      5 stars
      I tried it and loved it. Everyone's airfryer is different so mine only needed 5 minutes and not 15 because they definitely would have burned. But love it and will definitely save this recipe.

      Reply
    12. Olivia says

      December 06, 2021 at 10:37 pm

      5 stars
      Absolutely delicious, thanks for the recipe!

      Reply
      • Carita says

        December 12, 2021 at 3:29 pm

        Thanks Olivia, happy you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    13. yesbet88 says

      July 03, 2022 at 11:52 am

      Beast

      Reply
    14. WAG says

      September 04, 2022 at 5:26 pm

      5 stars
      These are delicious! I made them for the 4th of July & my family loved them! I’m hosting Labor Day & they’re requested!!! I panicked because I couldn’t find the recipe, I figured one last try & I found ya!!! Thanks

      Reply
      • Carita says

        September 18, 2022 at 10:24 am

        So happy to hear you found the recipe and thank you so much for the positive feedback! 🙂

        Reply

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    Hi, I'm Carita a true southern girl at heart. My love for cooking started as a child watching my grandmothers cook with such ease in the kitchen. Creating delicious meals doesn't always require hours in the kitchen. I have taken all that I've learned and work to develop simplified versions of staple recipes for you to share with family and friends!

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