Go Back
Viral TikTok corn ribs in a white ceramic dish on marble

Viral TikTok Corn Ribs

Quartered corn cobs seasoned with a smoky spice rub and cooked until curled and caramelized in the air fryer or oven, served with cotija and fresh lime.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ears fresh corn husked
  • 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 oz cotija cheese crumbled, for serving
  • 1 lime cut into wedges, for serving
  • fresh cilantro for serving

Method
 

  1. Stand each corn cob upright and carefully slice straight down through the center to halve it, then cut each half into two quarters.
  2. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper together. Brush corn ribs with oil, then rub the spice mix all over every surface.
  3. Air fryer: cook at 400F for 12 to 14 minutes until edges are golden and corn starts to curl. Oven: place cut-side down on a sheet pan and roast at 425F for 20 to 25 minutes until caramelized.
  4. Transfer to a platter, squeeze fresh lime juice over everything, scatter cotija and cilantro on top, and serve immediately with dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Use a sharp, heavy knife and go slowly when cutting the corn cobs into quarters. Fresh corn gives the best results and curls more dramatically than frozen. Serve immediately from the oven or air fryer for the crispiest texture.