How To Cook Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob in a stock pot. One piece is being puled out with a pair of tongs.

4.95 from 19 votes

This secret method for how to cook corn on the cob comes straight from our Mom’s kitchen. It comes out perfectly sweet and crunchy every time!

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Side, Side Dish

Servings:

Calories: 130kcal

Author: Erica Walker

Equipment

Large Stockpot

Ingredients

3 quarts water enough to cover corn
2 cups milk (we like using whole)
1/2 cup butter optional
1/2 cup sugar
6 ears corn on the cob shucked
butter to taste
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Fill a large stockpot about halfway with cold water, add milk, butter (optional), and sugar and bring to a LOW simmer. Do not add salt.
Once water is at a low simmer, add corn. Cover and simmer for about 8-10 minutes.
Remove corn with tongs and serve with butter, salt and pepper (see tips above).

Video

Notes

More Ways To Make Corn On The Cob

The recipe below is our favorite method because it is quick, easy, and foolproof. You get perfectly sweet, buttery, crunchy corn every time. In addition to this method are several other trusted ways to cook corn on the cob. If you are limited on stove-top space or just want to try something new, you can try any of these other methods:

In The Oven

First of all, peel and butter the corn and season as desired. Next, wrap the corn up in foil and roast at 450-degrees F for 20 minutes. Then, remove from oven and allow to rest 2-3 minutes before unwrapping.

In The Instant Pot

Place a trivet in the Instant Pot. Then, add 1 cup cold water. Brush melted butter on up to 6 pieces of corn (peeled) and place them on the trivet. Then, close and seal Instant Pot and cook for 1 minute on high pressure and slow release for 1 minute before doing a quick release. Season and serve.

In The Slow Cooker

Peel corn (up to 8 pieces) and brush with butter. Season as desired. Place 1/2 cup of water in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours.

In The Air Fryer

Cut corn into pieces so it will fit in the air fryer. However, don't overcrowd. Then, brush corn with melted butter or spray with cooking spray. Air fry at 350-degrees for 15 minutes, turning half-way through. Season and serve.

In The Microwave

Peel corn and wrap in a damp paper towel. Place on a plate and microwave for 5 minutes. Season and serve. (Not our favorite way as far as taste goes, but it is the FASTEST way and works great in a pinch.)

On The Grill

Leave husks on the corn but trim off the silks. Grill over medium-high heat for 13-15 minutes, turning often to distribute heat. If you have peeled corn, wrap the corn in foil with some butter and then grill.

Nutrition