Ya, ya, ya. I know what you are thinking… you have always known how to boil corn on the cob. You boil some water, throw the corn ears in and wait until it turns a bright yellow. But forget what you think you know about how long to boil corn and in what liquid. This method is simple, yet makes the corn super flavorful!
Gather This
You only need three simple ingredients to learn how to boil corn on the cob. A full list of ingredients with measurements for this recipe is available in the printable recipe card below.
- Salted butter – I like using salted butter (for once!) for boiling corn. But if you are using unsalted butter, add 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt to boiling water.
- Whole milk – Milk helps to sweeten the lack luster kernels. You can use any type of dairy milk, but whole milk sweetens it the most.
- Ears of corn on the cob – I like to try to make sure mine are all of uniform size so that they cook evenly.
How to Serve It
I am of the opinion that corn on the cob doesn’t need anything else. No butter, no salt and no pepper. The perfect side dish. I could honestly eat corn with every meal. It’s so incredibly easy to make, and it is delicious! You couldn’t ask for anything better.
It can be eaten on its own, in a salad, topped on pizza, baked into bread, fried into pancakes, paired with cheese lumped into soups and stews. It is truly a versatile ingredient.
5S Philosophy 👩🏻
- Salt – I actually use salted butter for this recipe and don’t feel additional salt is needed. If you do, try adding some flakey sea salt before eating.
- Seasoning – I’m a simple girl and butter and milk are the only seasonings I need. However, this corn seasoning is also a favorite.
- Sauces – If you really want to take the flavor of this corn up a notch, try topping it with this garlic butter sauce.
- Senses – Corn boiled in butter and milk is tender and juicy, with a rich, creamy aroma that fills the air. Each bite is sweet and buttery, melting in your mouth with a smooth, silky finish.
Boil Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter*
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 ears of corn on the cob , husked and cleaned
Instructions
- Fill a large stock pot or Dutch oven 3/4 of the way with water. Bring to a low boil.
- Add salted butter and whole milk and bring to a low boil.
- Add corn and boil for 10 minutes.
- Remove, tapping to get off excess water, and place on a serving tray.
- Add desired corn seasoning or butter and serve immediately.
- If you’ve tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Storage and Freezing
Make sure your corn on the cob is cooled completely. Then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and add to an airtight container or ziplock bag. It should last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
You can, but I recommend cutting it off the cob first. Store in a freezer bag or airtight container.
Your Questions, Answered
You can add the corn before or after the water boils. It is fairly hearty. I like to add mine after the water boils so it doesn’t get overcooked.
The corn will be a vibrant color of yellow. The kernels will be plumper and tender to the touch (but don’t burn yourself!)
More Delicious Corn Recipes
Corn is one of those ingredients that is versatile and can be used in lots of ways. Here are some of my favorites.
This post is right on time. I have some corn at home that I’m looking forward to trying this with.
I knew to do the water and butter trick, but I had never thought of adding milk. That’s genius!
Thanks! It really makes a difference!
Yum, this is normally how I make corn on the cob. It comes out so tasty! I’ll have to make this again soon.
Try it with the special seasoning next time- it really takes it to a new level!
Oh wow! I’ve always just plopped my corn in boiling water. I’ve been doing it wrong the entire time!
I wouldn’t say wrong, but this will certianly make it better!
This sounds liek an absolutely delicious way to boil and enjoy corn on the cob. It happens to be one of my other halves favourites so I will try out this recipe for him.
Great! Glad you are giving it a whirl.
I love how the corn came out so perfect this was the best instructions and worked like a charm!
I’ll never boil corn on the cob any other way! Adding butter and milk makes a huge difference. Thanks for sharing your method!
Corn on the cob is a favorite! Thanks for this!
Ok, this is mind blowing! I have never heard of this boiling method, but I love it. I’m in love with corn on the cob and this sounds like it makes the best corn ever. Can’t wait to try it!
This is such a classic summer dish! I love that they are in season now.