The Best Way to Cook Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a beloved summer staple, offering a burst of sweetness and a satisfying crunch in every bite that pairs perfectly with so many dishes! Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a simple dinner, corn on the cob is perfect for any occasion. As a proud Midwesterner, corn was a staple during the summer months and it’s not summer without corn! So, I’m sharing the best way to cook corn on the cob so you can enjoy this seasonal vegetable (yes, I said vegetable), all summer long!

If you’re looking for more kitchen knowledge, check out some of my other articles like How to Make Burgers Healthy, Tips for Making a Cheeseboard, What the Hell is Corn?

What is corn on the cob?

Corn on the cob is the ear of corn that is harvested while the kernels are still tender. In this state, corn is considered a vegetable. Read more about corn in my article What the Hell is Corn? While you can eat raw corn on the cob, it’s really best if it’s cooked! So, I’m sharing 4 ways to cook corn on the cob. You can try them all and decide which you think is the best way to cook corn on the cob! 

How to Choose the Best Corn

Before diving into cooking methods, it's crucial to start with fresh, organic, high-quality corn. I commonly helped my mom pick out corn at the grocery store as a child. Here are some of my top tips selecting the best ears. 

• Look for Bright Green Husks: The husks should be vibrant green and tightly wrapped around the cob, indicating freshness.
• Check the Tassels: The tassels (the silky threads at the top) should be brown and sticky. Dry or blackened tassels suggest older corn.
• Feel for Firm Kernels: Gently squeeze the corn to ensure the kernels are plump and firm. Avoid ears with missing or mushy kernels as these won’t be good to eat.
• Choose Sweet Corn: There is sweet yellow corn and white corn. As a true Midwesterner, I am very snobby and only eat sweet yellow corn! Just be careful you know which one you are buying because white corn is less sweet. 

How to Prep Corn on the Cob

Once you’ve selected the perfect ears, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Remove the husks and silk from the corn, and make sure the kernels are clean. This was a kitchen chore I was assigned on a regular basis growing up. 

We even had a corn silk brush, I’ve linked one here. This helps remove the silk after you husk the corn to ensure there are no stringy bits left on your cob. But, if there is, you can just pull them off after they cook too! Last, rinse the ears under cold water to remove any remaining silk.

The Best Way to Cook Corn on the Cob

This is debatable, because there are multiple ways to cook corn. If you ask me, the best method to cook corn on the cob is boiling. This is how my mom made it most of the time and it’s still how I make corn on the cob today. This method is quick, easy, and it creates the best juicy, plump, and crisp corn, in my opinion. 

But, you can also grill corn, steam corn, and even microwave corn as well. I will provide methods for all four ways to cook this beloved vegetable. You can test them out for yourself and find your preferred method for cooking corn on the cob. But, I will always say — boiling is best! 

Things You’ll Need

• 3-Quart Pot (or larger if you’re cooking more than 2 cobs)
• Corn Dishes
• Corn Holders

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Method 1: Boiling

Boiling is a classic and straightforward method that guarantees juicy, tender corn every time. 

Step by Step Instructions

1. Fill a Large Pot with Water: Fill a large pot three-quarters full with water. You can add a tablespoon of sugar to the water to enhance the corn’s natural sweetness (but if you have good corn, you do not need this!). But do not add salt, which can toughen the kernels.
2. Add the Corn: Add the corn into the water and put over high heat.
3. Cook for 4-6 Minutes: Boil the corn for 4-6 minutes, depending on the size of the ears. When it’s ready, the kernels will look brighter in color and plump. The kernels should be tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Remove and Serve: Use tongs to remove the corn from the water and allow it to drain. Serve immediately with butter, salt, and pepper, or your favorite toppings.

Method 2: Grilling

Grilling adds a smoky flavor and a slight char to the corn, making it a favorite for summer cookouts.

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Husk or Leave in the Husk: You can grill corn with or without the husks. For a smoky flavor, remove the husks and silk. For a steamed effect, leave the husks on but pull them back to remove the silk, then fold them back into place.
3. Season the Corn: If grilling without the husks, brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 10-15 Minutes: Place the corn on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove and Serve: Remove the corn from the grill and serve with your favorite toppings.

Method 3: Steaming

Steaming preserves the corn’s natural flavor and nutrients, resulting in sweet and tender kernels.

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare a Steamer Basket: Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and place a steamer basket inside.
2. Bring Water to a Boil: Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the Corn: Place the husked corn in the steamer basket.
4. Steam for 6-8 Minutes: Cover and steam the corn for 6-8 minutes, until the kernels are tender.
5. Remove and Serve: Use tongs to remove the corn from the steamer and serve immediately.

Method 4: Microwaving

Microwaving is a quick method, but it’s really not much faster than boiling! 

Step by Step Instructions

1. Place Corn in Microwave: Place one or two ears of husked corn on a microwave-safe plate. If leaving the husks on, trim the ends to fit in the microwave.
2. Microwave on High: Cook on high for 3-5 minutes per ear. The exact time will depend on your microwave’s power, so you may need to adjust.
3. Let Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the corn from the microwave (it will be hot) and let it cool for a minute before serving.

Video

Toppings and Serving Suggestions

Once your corn is perfectly cooked, there are endless ways to enjoy it. Here are some topping ideas to enhance the flavor.

• Butter, Salt & Pepper: A pat of butter and a sprinkle salt and pepper is all you need.
• Herb Butter: Try my Garlic Herb Butter on top of corn, it’s so good!
• Butter & Seasoning Mix: Roll corn in butter and sprinkle with your favorite seasoning mix like this Garlic Pepper Seasoning.
• Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cotija cheese over the corn for a savory touch.

The Takeaway

Corn on the cob is a versatile and delicious side dish that can complement any meal. Whether you prefer boiling, grilling, steaming, or microwaving, each method offers a unique way to enjoy this summer favorite. 

With these easy instructions and tips, you’ll be able to cook perfect corn on the cob every time. Try them all out and see which method you prefer! 

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