Boiled Corn on the Cob is a summertime staple, and with this method, it’s super easy to prepare. Tender, juicy, and sweet.
Whether you cut the kernels off the corn, eat it in rows, or munch away randomly, corn on the cob with this classic summer side is always a favorite with a little butter and salt.
A Summertime Staple
- This is the perfect way to enjoy a fresh (or frozen) ear of corn.
- We love grilled corn but simply boiling corn makes the flavor of the sweet corn shine.
- This method ensures perfect corn every time and it’s easy.
- No watching a boiling pot required, focus on making juicy hamburgers, steak, or ribs!
- Corn is all of the goodness of summer in one bite. Sweet and buttery.
No Fancy Ingredients Needed
While some recipes add sugar or milk to the water, I find with fresh sweet corn it isn’t needed.
Choosing Corn Cobs – In the summer we head to farmers markets for the best corn!
To select the freshest corn, ensure they have bright green husks and the husks don’t seem dry or brown. There should be a lot of silk that is a golden color and has a slight stickiness to it. Peel back a few leaves to ensure the corn is bright and fresh inside.
Seasoning – We love salted butter (and a little extra salt) and pepper. Simple perfection.
Variations – Change up the seasoning by adding fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro), a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, some chili powder, or try herbed butter.
How Long to Boil Corn on the Cob
This is an easy fix-it and forget-it method of cooking corn.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Use tongs to add the cobs to boiling water and let them boil for 4-5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and cover, let the corn rest in the water for 5-6 minutes or up to 30 minutes.
- Drain the corn and place the cobs back into the warm pot. Add butter (or even garlic butter) and salt & pepper to taste.
Got Leftovers?
Always cook a little bit extra to add to other recipes like fresh corn salad or Frito corn salad. Otherwise, leftovers can be frozen. They will also keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat add a little water or butter to a pan, add the corn, then cook until heated through. The cobs can also be heated up on the grill.
Best Ways to Cook Corn
- Air Fryer Corn on the Cob – so fast and easy!
- Baked Corn on the Cob – moist & flavorful
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – a summer time fave
- Microwave Corn on the Cob – an easy time saver
- Crock Pot Corn on the Cob – totally effortless
Did you make this Boiled Corn on the Cob? Leave a rating and a comment below!
Easy Boiled Corn on the Cob
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn
- 2 tablespoons butter or to taste
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
- Remove husks and silk from corn. Break cobs in half if desired.
- Once water is boiling, add corn and boil for 4-5 minutes. Turn off the heat and cover.
- Leave the corn in the hot water for 5 minutes longer or up to 30 minutes. Drain well.
- Place corn back into the warm pot, add butter, salt & pepper and toss to coat.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American© SpendWithPennies.com. Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is both encouraged and appreciated. Copying and/or pasting full recipes to any social media is strictly prohibited. Please view my photo use policy here.
Like our recipes?
Follow us on Pinterest!
We put a large pot on the stove and bring water to a boil. Place the corn in the water and cover with a lid. When steam starts to come out at the lid, the corn is done. I see where people put milk in the water and sugar. Those tricks don’t work. Fresh picked corn is what makes the difference in how it tastes.
Thanks for sharing your tips, Loren!
Looking forward to trying the corn on cob, and scrambled eggs! So enjoy trying new recipes. Thank you!
Thank YOU Linda, you are very welcome!