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I know you’re probably rolling your eyes because everyone knows how to boil corn on the cob. But when you cook corn on the cob this way, it’s a game-changer for the best, buttery, most delicious boiled corn on the cob ever. You’ll learn how to correctly prepare the boiling water and how long to boil corn on the cob so it comes out perfectly tender. Every time I make it, my husband and kids snatch them up. For holidays, these are as good as gone minutes after you put them on the table.

Best boiled corn on the cob recipe

Best Boiled Corn on the Cob Recipe

The best way to cook corn on the cob fast and easy is by boiling it. This boiled corn on the cob recipe goes a step further to render your ears tender, buttery, and just amazing! You’ll wish you knew these tricks sooner, but now that you do, you too can make the best corn on the cob for your friends and family!

Easy Boiled Corn on the Cob Recipe

With just a few ingredients, 8 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cook time, this is an easy side dish to make for holidays, potlucks, barbecues, and of course, the holidays. You’ll be amazed the difference it makes adding these things to the water to boil with your corn. Learning how to cook corn on the cob is fun and easy!

Boiled corn on the cob ingredients

Boiled Corn on the Cob Ingredients

  • Ears of corn – Husk them and halve them first.
  • Milk – You’ll need a cup and a half to add to the boil.
  • Butter – One stick and it’s done! Buttered corn is so simple yet so delicious!
  • Sugar – When learning how to make sweet corn, sugar is the only corn on the cob seasoning you’ll need. Add it to your desired sweetness to bring out the best in the sweet corn.

Easy boiled corn on the cob recipe

How do you Make Boiled Corn on the Cob from Scratch

When cooking corn on the cob on the stove, start by grabbing your large soup pot and fill it halfway with water, then bring to a rolling boil. Then add the milk, butter, and sugar. Let the stick of butter melt, then add you are ready to add your corn. I always get asked how long do you boil corn on the cob? Knowing how long to boil corn on the cob is the key to your corn coming out juicy and tender every time. Boil for 8 to 10 minutes and serve.

I know its corny, but you are ah-maze-ing!!!
Megan

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Boiled Corn on the Cob Every Time

  • Use regular milk. Full-fat milk or even 2% is a good choice. You want the fattiness of the milk to bring out the corn’s natural sweetness.
  • Don’t use salted butter. It will change the taste and if you really want a savory component to this sweet corn, you can always sprinkle it on your cob to taste.
  • Adjust the sugar your way. If you prefer another sweetener, that’s fine. You can add in more or less sugar to make it as sweet as you wish.

How do you make boiled corn on the cob from scratch

How to Cook Corn on the Cob?

There are two traditional ways of cooking corn on the cob, boiling it and grilled corn on the cob. Boiling corn on the cob is quick and easy. You just wait for the water to boil, then add the other ingredients and let them come together, and then the corn. Set a timer and they’ll be done in 8 to 10 minutes.

Do you add anything to the water when boiling corn on the cob?

Yes, you’ll add milk, butter, and sugar. This will make your corn on the cob the best you’ve ever had.

Why do you put milk in water when boiling corn?

Milk added to boiling water for corn renders the corn sweeter and juicier. Trust the process, it really makes a difference.

Do you add salt when boiling corn?

Salt can work to make the kernels tough. If you prefer a salty taste to balance the sweetness, try adding it to your cooked corn before taking a bite.

Do you boil corn covered or uncovered?

It is better to boil corn uncovered until the kernels are tender and juicy.

How many minutes do you boil corn on the cob?

Once the water starts boiling and you throw everything in and add the corn, it will take 8 to 10 minutes to boil corn on the cob.

Can you boil corn on the cob too long?

Yes, you can. And if you do, you’ll wind up with mushy, bland kernels. Stick to this cook time and you’ll never go wrong!

Is 30 minutes too long to boil corn?

Yes, 30 minutes is too long to boil corn. The correct time to boil corn on the cob is 8 to 10 minutes.

How long does it take to boil small corn on the cob?

In this recipe, you halve the cobs making them smaller. No matter the size, they are still best boiled between 8 and 10 minutes.

How many minutes do you cook corn on the cob?

Corn on the cob should cook for 8 to 10 minutes when boiling.

How to boil corn on the cob

Do we need to boil sweet corn?

Yes, you can’t just eat raw corn of any kind. Boiling it brings out the flavors and sweetness, and this recipe can help with that.

How long to boil corn on the cob?

Knowing how long to cook corn on the cob is important to ensure your corn comes out perfectly cooked. Boil your corn on the cob for 8 to 10 minutes and it will come out juicy and tender.

What is the healthiest way to cook corn on the cob?

The healthiest way is to omit the milk, sugar, and butter, but then where would you be? It wouldn’t be very flavorful. Adding nothing makes it unrewarding. And these simple ingredients are distributed sparingly so it won’t be enough to make an impact to your diet.

What goes well with Corn on the Cob?

Maybe a better question is what doesn’t go well with corn on the cob, but whatever. You can serve this with steaks or your big holiday feasts. Corn on the cob is excellent for barbecues too, or as a side for any hearty meal you serve during the week.

How to Store Corn on the Cob

Wrap your corn up after it’s cooled but before it’s been 2 hours sitting out. Then store it in your fridge.

How Long Does Corn on the Cob Last?

If you’ve made a huge batch, don’t worry. You can keep that corn on the cob in your fridge for 3 to 5 days.

Can You Freeze Corn on the Cob?

And yes, you can freeze it too! When properly wrapped, it will last 8 to 10 months.

How to Reheat Corn on the Cob?

Simply set your oven to 400F and put the corn in a baking dish with about a tablespoon of water at the bottom. Cover with foil and then heat for 5 minutes.


Watch How To Make Boiled Corn on the Cob (Video)

Boiled Corn on the Cob Recipe

5 from 152 votes
Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 112
Learn how to make the perfect boiled corn on the cob with this easy corn on the cob recipe. This way of boiling corn on the cob ensures your corn comes out juicy, buttery, and sweet every time. This classic is a crowd favorite!

Ingredients

  • 8 ears of corn (husked and halved)
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1 stick butter
  • 1-2 tbsp sugar (to desired sweetness)

Instructions 

  • Fill a large soup pot halfway with water. Bring the soup pot to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling, add in the milk, butter, and sugar. Once the butter has melted, add the halved corn cobs. Simmer the corn for 8-10 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the corn from the soup pot and serve.
Calories: 112kcal
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 112kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 33mg | Potassium: 304mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 242IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 1mg

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I’m a mom of two, food and wine lover, and recipe creation enthusiast. Good food brings families together. Which is why I’m devoted to sharing my best recipes that are simple enough for even the beginner cook that your family will love!

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