I’m on team everything is better with bacon, and this bacon wrapped corn on the cob is no exception! Savory, salty bacon complements fresh sweet corn for the perfect summer side dish. I make mine in the air fryer, but it’s equally good on the grill or in the oven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The perfect sweet-and-savory combination. Sweet corn and smoky bacon are a match made in heaven!
- Made for the air fryer. The air fryer helps the bacon crisp up beautifully while keeping the corn tender and juicy
- Easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a side dish that looks and tastes impressive
- Perfect for cookouts and barbecues. It fits right in alongside all your summer favorites!
- A fun twist on corn on the cob. Wrapping corn in bacon instantly makes it feel a little more special
- Packed with flavor. The bacon adds smoky, salty goodness to every bite
- Great for entertaining. It’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that always gets attention
- Customizable. Add your favorite seasonings, sauces, or finishing touches to make it your own!
- Pairs with almost everything. From burgers and hot dogs to chicken and steak, it’s an easy side for countless meals
- Looks as good as it tastes. The crispy bacon-wrapped corn makes an eye-catching addition to any dinner table or party spread
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Ingredients List
- 4 ears fresh sweet corn, shucked and silk removed
- 8 strips bacon (regular; not thick cut bacon)
- 2 Tbsp melted butter (or olive oil)
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp BBQ seasoning
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- You can also use half ears of corn (they’re the perfect size for smaller hands) and use one slice of bacon for each one if you like
- For a little heat, use hot honey instead of regular honey. You can also swap in maple syrup or brown sugar, or omit for a more savory option
- Choose your favorite BBQ dry rub (if you need a gluten-free one, make sure it is marked as such since it can vary between brands), or you can also use Cajun seasoning for a little kick! I don’t think you need any additional salt or pepper, but you can adjust to taste
Step By Step Instructions
- Combine melted butter, honey, and BBQ seasoning in a small bowl. Brush evenly over the ears of corn (you can reserve any extra for brushing on after cooking). Then, wrap each ear of corn in 2 strips of bacon. Start at the thicker end, wrapping taught but not overly tightened, with just a small amount of overlap. Tuck the ends in to secure it
- Add the bacon wrapped corn to your air fryer, bacon seams down, and allowing a little air space between each one. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, until the bacon is crisped to your liking (no need to flip, as it unravels the bacon more)
- Brush with any remaining honey butter, and enjoy!
Pairing Suggestions
Bacon wrapped corn is sweet, smoky, salty, and savory, making it a natural fit for cookouts, barbecues, and hearty family dinners.
Main Dishes
- Grilled steak: A steakhouse-worthy pairing with plenty of bold flavor
- BBQ chicken: Sweet corn and smoky barbecue flavors are a perfect match. Try my Peach Whiskey BBQ Chicken!
- Pulled pork: Rich, tender pork pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon
- Baby back ribs: A backyard barbecue favorite
- Burgers: An easy, crowd-pleasing meal combination!
- Hot dogs and brats: Classic cookout fare that pairs naturally with corn. Try any of my amazing Air Fryer Hot Dog Recipes!
Other Sides
- Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy to balance the richness
- Cucumber salad: Cool and refreshing alongside the smoky bacon
- Tomato salad: Fresh summer tomatoes are a natural companion
- Garden salad: A simple way to round out the meal!
- Watermelon salad: Sweet fruit provides a refreshing contrast
Comfort Food Favorites
- Potato wedges: Crispy potatoes and bacon wrapped corn make a hearty side duo. Try my easy Air Fryer Frozen Potato Wedges!
- Mac and cheese: Creamy, cheesy comfort food at its finest.
- Baked beans: A barbecue staple that complements the smoky flavors. My Air Fryer Baked Beans are a great choice!
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet and perfect for cookouts!
Appetizers & Party Foods
- Jalapeño poppers: Spicy, cheesy, and bacon-friendly. Double down with my Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers!
- Buffalo chicken dip: Great for game days and gatherings. Yep, you can make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Dip too!
- Loaded potato skins: Another crowd-pleasing appetizer. My Air Fryer Potato Skins are a great choice!
- Deviled eggs: A picnic and cookout classic
Drink Pairings
- Moscow Mule: The ginger and lime cut through the richness of the bacon. Try my Watermelon Moscow Mule for a summer favorite!
- Classic Margarita: Bright citrus balances the sweet corn and smoky bacon.
- Lager or pilsner: Crisp and refreshing with savory foods.
- Sweet tea: A Southern-inspired pairing that works beautifully with barbecue flavors
Best Occasions
Bacon wrapped corn is perfect for summer cookouts, backyard barbecues, holiday weekends, potlucks, tailgates, and family dinners when you want a side dish that’s just a little more exciting than traditional corn on the cob!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Make This On The Grill?
Yes! Bacon wrapped corn is excellent on the grill. Cook over indirect or medium heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the corn is tender (usually about 20 minutes). For less charred bacon, you can wrap the ears in foil.
How To Make Bacon Wrapped Corn In The Oven?
Wrap the corn in foil, then place on a baking sheet or wire rack and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and the corn is cooked through. Unwrap and cook an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the bacon.
Do I Need To Cook The Bacon Before Wrapping?
No. The bacon will cook alongside the corn, allowing the flavors to meld together. For the best results, use regular-cut bacon rather than thick-cut bacon, which takes longer to crisp.
Tips For the Best Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob
- Cooking times are based on my Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Other air fryers can vary slightly, so adjust in 1-3 minute increments as needed for your setup (as well as your personal bacon browning preferences)!
- You can also rub or drizzle the melted honey and butter on the corn and then sprinkle the seasoning on afterwards if your find that easier (it can be a little lumpy and difficult to spread depending on your specific rub)
- I usually pause after about 5 minutes and see if any of the bacon has come loose (it happens) and try to gently tuck it back down. It may still come a bit loose, but will still be delicious, so don’t worry about it too much!
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips
- Allow the corn to cool completely before storing
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or zippered bag in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Wrap individual pieces separately in foil if you’re storing them for quick grab-and-go leftovers!
Reheating Tips
- Air fryer (best method): Reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until the bacon is hot and crisp
- Oven: Warm at 350°F for 8-10 minutes on a baking sheet
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals if needed, though the bacon will lose its crispness
- Turn halfway through reheating for more even warming
- Serve immediately after reheating for the best texture
- Wingstop Copycat Corn
Final Thoughts
This air fryer bacon wrapped corn is the perfect easy side for your next cookout! The air fryer does an amazing job of getting the corn roasted and the bacon browned and crisp, all without having to turn on the range oven in the summer heat!
Of course, you can also grill it if preferred, but either way this is a great option for your backyard barbecue, pool party, or just a warm summer evening. It’s one of my favorite ways to serve up fresh summer sweet corn!
Katie’s tip
Looking for more great options featuring this seasonal vegetable? Check out all of my delicious Air Fryer Corn Recipes for more inspiration!
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Corn on the Cob
Servings: 4
Air fryer bacon wrapped corn is the perfect balance of sweet and savory! It’s easy to customize with different seasonings, and is a great way to use summer sweet corn!
Equipment
- Basting brush (or similar)
Ingredients
- 4 ears sweet corn (shucked and silk removed)
- 8 strips bacon (regular; not thick cut)
- 2 Tbsp melted butter (or olive oil)
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 2 tsp BBQ seasoning
Instructions
- Combine melted butter, honey, and BBQ seasoning in a small bowl. Brush evenly over the ears of corn (you can reserve any extra for brushing on after cooking). You can also brush on just honey butter and then sprinkle the seasoning on if you find that easier.2 Tbsp melted butter, 1 Tbsp honey, 2 tsp BBQ seasoning, 4 ears sweet corn
- Wrap each ear of corn in 2 strips of bacon. Start at the thicker end, wrapping taught but not overly tightened, with just a small amount of overlap between pieces. Tuck the ends in to secure it8 strips bacon
- Add the bacon wrapped corn to your air fryer, bacon seams down, allowing a little air space between each one. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed
- Cook on the air fry setting at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, until the bacon is crisped to your liking (no need to flip, as it unravels the bacon more)
- Brush with any remaining honey butter (optional), and enjoy!
Notes
- For a little heat, use hot honey instead of regular honey. You can also swap in maple syrup or brown sugar, or omit for a more savory option
- Choose your favorite BBQ rub (make sure it’s marked as gluten-free if needed), use Cajun seasoning for a little kick, or experiment with other spice blends as desired! You shouldn’t need additional salt or pepper, but you can adjust to taste
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand, size, and flavor of ingredients, any sauces or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
Serving: 172g | Calories: 380kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 52mg | Sodium: 607mg | Potassium: 392mg | Fiber: 2.1g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 212.8IU | Vitamin C: 7.5mg | Calcium: 7.4mg | Iron: 0.9mg
