If you've ever found yourself licking your fingers after devouring a batch of Wingstop's famous cajun fried corn, you're not alone. That salty-spicy crunch with a hint of garlic and butter is completely addictive—and now, you can recreate it at home. This copycat Wingstop corn recipe captures everything you love about their cajun corn on the cob but takes it up a notch with a golden parmesan crust. Think of it as part fair food, part comfort side dish, and completely satisfying. Whether you're into deep fried corn on the cob, looking for fresh corn recipes for the season, or simply want an easy dinner recipe side that steals the spotlight, this one's for you.

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Corn with a Savory Parmesan Crust

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 12

Total Time 27

Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Equipment

Large skillet or cast iron pan Perfect for getting a good sear. A grill pan or even a flat-top griddle works as an alternative.
Tongs For turning the corn evenly while frying.
Mixing bowl To toss the corn with seasonings.
Basting brush For applying the butter and mayo-parmesan mixture.
Paper towels To pat dry the corn before frying; this helps achieve a crispier surface.
Sheet tray or platter For letting the corn rest once it’s coated.

Ingredients

For the corn

4 ears of corn shucked and cut into thirds (fresh is ideal, but frozen corn cobs work if thawed)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cajun seasoning store-bought or homemade
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt to taste
Fresh cracked black pepper

For the parmesan crust

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese finely grated works best for sticking
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream for extra adhesion
1 teaspoon lemon juice optional, for a bit of tang
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Optional spice mix tweak (for extra flavor)

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper if you like it spicy
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the corn

Whether you're using fresh or frozen corn, make sure it's dry. If it's frozen, thaw it completely and pat dry with paper towels. Cut each ear into thirds for snackable chunks that resemble the classic cajun corn on the cob Wingstop style.

Step 2: Season it up

In a large bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the corn pieces in the bowl, making sure they're well-coated.

Step 3: Sear or fry

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. If you're using a grill pan or cast iron, give it a couple of minutes to get hot. Arrange the corn pieces in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until you see golden brown char marks and the kernels begin to crisp.

Optional deep fry method:

If you're after that deep fried corn on the cob texture, heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a heavy-bottomed pot. Carefully lower the corn in batches and fry for 3-4 minutes until crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Create the parmesan crust

While the corn is still warm, brush each piece with a light layer of mayo or sour cream. This helps the parmesan stick and adds a creamy contrast to the spices. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan generously, rolling the corn slightly to coat all sides.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Finish with a drizzle of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness. Serve immediately while the crust is hot and melty.

Perfect Pairings

This cajun corn recipe is a knockout side dish and pairs well with a wide range of mains. If you’re going for a full-on Wingstop copycat night, serve it alongside crispy chicken wings with a variety of sauces—lemon pepper, garlic parmesan, or mango habanero.

For a twist, pair it with:

Grilled Cajun Chicken Sandwiches – Keep the cajun theme going.
BBQ Ribs or Pulled Pork – The sweet and spicy flavor contrast hits just right.
Loaded Nachos or Tacos – Use chopped leftover corn as a topping.
A zesty ranch or chipotle aioli dip – For dunking, because you can never have too much sauce.

This is also one of those fried corn recipes that doubles as a party snack. Serve it with toothpicks and extra parmesan on the side and watch it disappear.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, absolutely! For those looking into frozen corn recipes, this one adapts well. Just be sure to thaw and pat the corn dry to avoid sogginess when frying or searing.

2. What kind of corn works best?

Sweet corn is ideal for its juicy kernels that hold up well during cooking. Fresh ears offer the best texture, but frozen cobs are a solid substitute.

3. How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is medium but very adjustable. Want it milder? Reduce the cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne. Want more heat? Add hot sauce or extra chili powder to the butter mix.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can pre-season the corn and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. However, for best texture, fry or sear it fresh and serve immediately after applying the parmesan crust.

5. What if I don’t like mayonnaise?

No problem. Swap mayo with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even melted butter for a similar creamy base to help the parmesan stick.

Crispy Wingstop-Inspired Corn with a Savory Parmesan Crust