There’s something incredibly satisfying about the crunch and spice combo of these Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe. They turn simple corn into crispy, flavorful ribs that you'll want at every gathering or cozy night in.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients & Why They Work
- Make It Your Way
- Step-by-Step: How I Make Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe
- Top Tip
- How to Serve Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe
- Make Ahead and Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Final Thoughts
- Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe
Why You'll Love This Recipe
I remember the first time I made baked corn ribs — such a simple idea, but these crispy, spicy bites blew me away. They’re a crowd-pleaser and so easy to whip up, even when you’re short on time.
- Crunchy and Flavor-Packed: The unique cutting method exposes more surface to seasoning and baking, creating a crispy outside with juicy kernels inside.
- Simple Ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples means you can make this recipe anytime without a special trip to the store.
- Versatile Snack or Side: Serve them at BBQs, game days, or just as a fun twist to your weeknight dinner.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite herbs and dips to make it truly your own.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This recipe comes together beautifully thanks to the balance of buttery richness, smoky paprika, and a little kick from spices that bring out the sweetness of the corn perfectly. Plus, the olive oil helps everything get that perfect crisp.
- Unsalted Butter: Melts into every kernel, adding rich flavor and helping the seasoning stick.
- Olive Oil: A little healthy fat that encourages crisp edges and seals in moisture.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without being overpowering.
- Ground Paprika: Adds that warm smoky note that pairs beautifully with corn.
- Garlic Powder: A subtle punch of garlic flavor that blends seamlessly.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic and intensifies the savory depth.
- Fresh Corn on the Cob: The star—choose fresh, firm ears for the best texture.
Make It Your Way
While this recipe is delicious as-is, I love adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat or swapping paprika for smoked paprika when I want that campfire flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings!
- Variation: Sometimes I add a dash of chili powder and a squeeze of lime after baking to give it a zingy, fresh twist that's irresistible.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Corn
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me, this makes cleanup so much easier. Then, trim your corn by cutting each ear in half lengthwise, followed by cutting each half into 2-inch “ribs.” This shape is key to getting those crispy edges.
Step 2: Mix and Brush on the Spicy Seasoning
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over each corn rib—don’t skimp, every nook should be coated for max flavor.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place the ribs cut side down on your baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them near the end; you’re looking for a deep golden color and crispy edges without burning.
Step 4: Cool, Garnish, and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the corn ribs cool for a few minutes so the crispiness settles in. Serve them with more melted butter, some fresh parsley, and your favorite dipping sauce — I’m partial to a tangy chipotle mayo.
Top Tip
Over the years, I’ve learned a few things that really elevate this Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe and make sure you always get that perfect crispy bite.
- Cutting Technique Matters: Cutting the corn into ribs isn’t just for looks—it exposes more surface area to the seasoning and heat, which is the secret to that crispy crust.
- Don’t Skip the Oil/Butter Mix: That combination prevents drying out and helps the spices stick for even flavor and browning.
- Single Layer Baking: Crowding the pan leads to steaming, not baking, so keep ribs spaced out for crispiness.
- Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking at 30 minutes to avoid burning and get that perfect golden finish.
How to Serve Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping mine with freshly chopped parsley for color and a squeeze of lime to brighten the spicy butter. A sprinkle of cotija cheese also adds a lovely salty touch that my family adores.
Side Dishes
These corn ribs are incredible alongside grilled meats, fresh salads, or even as a fun appetizer with dips like ranch, chipotle aioli, or salsa verde. For a full meal, serving them with BBQ ribs or roasted chicken turns dinner into a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, I’ve arranged baked corn ribs standing upright in a rustic wooden board, surrounded by colorful bowls of dipping sauces. Kids love the “rib” shape, making these a fun finger food at birthdays or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover corn ribs store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating them in the oven to help maintain their crispness rather than using a microwave.
Freezing
I’ve tried freezing corn ribs wrapped tightly in foil and placed in freezer bags. They freeze well for up to a month, though the texture is best when reheated in the oven rather than microwaved.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, arrange the ribs on a lined baking sheet and pop them back into a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy instead of soggy, which is key to enjoying them again.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Fresh corn really shines in this recipe because the texture and natural sweetness come through best. Frozen corn kernels won’t work for ribs since you need whole ears to cut into ribs, but you can definitely make a similar seasoned corn dish using frozen kernels.
I love pairing these spicy corn ribs with creamy sauces like chipotle mayo or ranch dressings. A tangy lime crema or even a fresh salsa verde can balance the heat and keep things fresh.
Simply reduce or omit the paprika and adjust the garlic and onion powders to taste. You can add a touch of smoked paprika for flavor without adding heat, and leaving out any cayenne or hot chili powders keeps it mild but flavorful.
Yes! Grilling is a great alternative that adds a smoky char. Just be sure to brush on the seasoned butter and turn frequently to prevent burning. Grilling times will be shorter, so watch closely.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe have become a favorite for me because they’re such a fun, flavorful way to enjoy corn. Whether you’re making them for a casual snack or to surprise guests at your next party, they never disappoint. I genuinely hope you try them out soon—you’re going to love that crispy edges and spicy bite!
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Baked Corn Ribs with Spicy Seasoning Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 ribs
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy, golden corn ribs are a delightful and flavorful twist on traditional corn on the cob. Seasoned with a blend of butter, olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, then baked to perfection, they make a fun and tasty snack or side dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Corn Ribs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, ¼ stick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 3 ears fresh corn on the cob (shucked and silks removed)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, kosher salt, ground paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until fully combined.
- Cut the Corn: Place each shucked ear of corn on a large cutting board. Cut each ear in half lengthwise, then cut each half into about 2-inch-wide sections to create corn “ribs.”
- Arrange Corn Ribs: Lay the corn ribs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure the cut side is facing down to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Brush with Seasoning: Generously brush the seasoned butter mixture over each piece of corn, making sure all surfaces are coated for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Corn Ribs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes until the corn ribs are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the corn ribs from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with additional butter, freshly chopped parsley, and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip the corn ribs halfway through baking to brown both sides evenly.
- Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky flavor twist.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
- Serve with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
- These corn ribs work well as a fun appetizer or a unique side dish for summer barbecues.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib
- Calories: 47 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 101 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
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