YT Recipe

Corn Ribs

Corn Ribs is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by QVC Originals on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 14 min | Total: 39 min

Cost: $4.21 total, $1.05 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 ears Corn (fresh, husked)
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground if possible)
  • 1/4 tsp Salt (optional, to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (full‑fat for best flavor)
  • 1 Tbsp Hot Sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 Tbsp Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 Tbsp Cotija Cheese (crumbled; if unavailable, use queso fresco)
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
  • 1 Lime Wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cut the corn into ribs

    Place each ear of corn on a cutting board, slice it lengthwise into halves, then lay each half flat and cut again to create quarters (8 pieces total).

    Time: PT5M

  2. Prepare the oil marinade

    In a mixing bowl whisk together olive oil, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Brush corn with the marinade

    Using a basting brush, coat each corn quarter thoroughly, making sure the mixture gets into the kernels.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Preheat the air fryer

    Set the air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 400°F

  5. Air‑fry the corn ribs

    Place the brushed corn quarters in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 14 minutes, shaking or turning halfway through.

    Time: PT14M

    Temperature: 400°F

  6. Make the creamy sauce

    While the corn cooks, combine mayonnaise, hot sauce, and fresh lime juice in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Coat the hot corn with sauce

    When the corn is done, transfer it to a serving plate and brush generously with the mayo‑hot‑sauce mixture.

    Time: PT2M

  8. Add cheese, herbs, and lime

    Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the sauced corn, then add chopped parsley and a final squeeze of fresh lime juice.

    Time: PT2M

  9. Serve

    Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
3g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
7g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Eggs (mayonnaise), Dairy (cotija cheese)

Last updated: March 15, 2026

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Corn Ribs

Recipe by QVC Originals

A quick and tasty summer side dish inspired by Mexican street corn (elote). Fresh corn ears are cut into "ribs", brushed with a spicy oil marinade, air‑fried until caramelized, then slathered in a creamy mayo‑hot‑sauce, topped with crumbled cotija cheese, parsley and a squeeze of lime.

EasyMexicanServes 4

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Source Video
15m
Prep
22m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
47m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.21
Total cost
$1.05
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • • Brush the corn thoroughly so the seasoning reaches the kernels.
  • • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in a single layer.
  • • Apply the creamy sauce while the corn is hot for proper coating.
  • • Finish with cotija cheese and lime to balance richness.

Safety Warnings

  • • Use caution when handling the hot air fryer and hot corn.
  • • Sharp knife required for cutting corn; keep fingers clear of blade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Mexican Street Corn (Elote) in Mexican cuisine?

A

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a beloved snack sold by vendors throughout Mexico. Traditionally, corn on the cob is grilled, slathered with mayo or crema, sprinkled with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime, reflecting the country's love of bold, layered flavors.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Elote in Mexico?

A

In the Yucatán, elote may be served with a cheese called queso de mano and a drizzle of achiote sauce. In central Mexico, it’s often brushed with Mexican crema and topped with chili powder, while in the north, butter and a simple salt coating are common.

cultural
Q

How is Mexican Street Corn traditionally served in Mexico?

A

It is usually served hot, on the cob, with a wooden stick for easy handling. Vendors hand‑roll the corn in a paper wrapper after coating it, allowing diners to eat it on the go.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Mexican Street Corn associated with in Mexican culture?

A

Elote is a staple at fairs, festivals, and street markets, and it’s also a popular side at family gatherings, barbecues, and Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

cultural
Q

What makes this Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn Ribs recipe special compared to the classic grilled version?

A

Using an air fryer gives the corn a quick, even char without needing an outdoor grill, making it convenient for indoor cooking while still delivering the smoky, caramelized flavor that defines elote.

technical
Q

Why does the recipe use a mayo‑hot‑sauce mixture instead of traditional crema?

A

Mayonnaise provides a stable base that holds the hot sauce and lime juice together, creating a creamy, tangy coating that stays on the corn ribs even after air frying, while still mimicking the richness of crema.

technical
Q

Can I make the sauce ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, mix the mayo, hot sauce, and lime juice up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before using.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the corn ribs are done?

A

The kernels should be lightly browned and slightly curled at the edges, with a faint char. The corn should be tender but still have a bite, and the coating should be glossy from the sauce.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel QVC Originals specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel QVC Originals focuses on easy, approachable home cooking demonstrations that highlight seasonal ingredients and quick kitchen gadgets, often featuring product tie‑ins and practical tips for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel QVC Originals' approach to Mexican cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

QVC Originals blends product showcases with straightforward recipes, emphasizing convenience tools like air fryers, and presents Mexican dishes in a way that’s accessible to home cooks who may not have traditional outdoor grills.

channel
Q

What other Mexican recipes is the YouTube channel QVC Originals known for?

A

QVC Originals has popular videos on Chicken Enchilada Casserole, Easy Guacamole, and Quick Chipotle Beef Tacos, all presented with a focus on simple steps and kitchen gadget integration.

channel
Q

What are common mistakes to avoid when making Air Fryer Mexican Street Corn Ribs?

A

Common errors include overcrowding the air fryer basket, which prevents proper browning, under‑coating the corn with the oil marinade, and applying the sauce after the corn has cooled, which reduces adhesion.

technical
More like this:Mexican RecipesSide Dish RecipesMore by QVC Originals

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