How to Boil Corn on the Cob Tutorial

Yea, yea, yea. 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. How hard can that be?

Forget what you think you know about how to boil corn on the cob. This method for boiled corn is simple, yet makes the corn super flavorful!

Well, you are also here reading this which suggests you think I know something about boiling corn that you don’t. Maybe you know my trick, maybe you don’t. Keep reading…

Some people have theories about starting with cold water vs. hot water. But I sincerely think my method yields the best corn, no matter the temperature of the water.

Make sure to PIN How to Boil Corn!

Before I give away the secret technique, I do understand that a really good ear of corn doesn’t need anything special. I totally agree with that statement.

When you hit the sweet spot at the end of the summer when all the roadside stands are selling corn for super cheap, buy it. Buy it and eat it every night for dinner just plain.

It doesn’t need anything else. No butter, no salt and no pepper.

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.

I also love watching my Facebook feed flood with folks claiming their state has the best corn. People get very territorial and emotional over corn on the cob.

But when you aren’t in that few week period, or in the middle of the winter, you aren’t going to get that succulent, sweet-on-its-own perfect corn. You are going to need to doctor it up a bit.

There are lots of ways to season corn outside of butter and salt that I love, but I also see the importance of having a basic corn recipe. One that complements the masses instead of the few. And this How to Boil Corn is the base for that recipe.

The trick? Not just water. Water + milk + butter. And boil.

Milk helps to sweeten the lack luster kernels while butter cooks its way into every nook and cranny. Nothing makes me more sad than slathering my corn cob with a pad of butter, only to find most of it pooling on the plate. You know how much I love and respect butter!

Here we are essentially poaching corn in butter, much like you would a lobster tail. It will come out not needing any further buttering, although I have been known to still try and get a little more on.

Start by filling a stock pot or Dutch oven with water. Add in the salted butter and milk and bring to a boil. Add the corn and boil for 10 minutes (or a little longer if you need.)

After you remove your corn from boiling, then a little sprinkle of all-purpose best corn on the cob seasoning will give it the finishing touch it needs before gracing the table. It makes the best side dish for literally any meal!

Questions you might have about how to make boiled corn:

How long to boil corn on the cob? The general rule is to boil corn for 10 minutes, however cooking time does vary based on altitude and also the size of your corn. You might need to boil it a little longer at 15 minutes.

How to cook the corn on the cob on the grill? Gimme Some Grilling has a really great recipe for Grilled Corn on the Cob. She essentially rubs each ear of corn with butter, sprinkles with salt, wraps in foil and then throws them on the grill for 18 – 20 minutes. Easy peasy!

How to cook corn on the cob for a crowd? When I’m making it for a crowd, I like to cut each ear of corn in half. If you’re anything like me, there will be plenty of food for your guests to choose from, so smaller portions help to ensure they get to try everything.

I also use a large stock pot to fit the maximum number of ears.

If you need to boil the corn in multiple batches, just cover the corn in foil to keep the heat in.

Tools for Boiling Corn:

Dutch Oven– every kitchen should have one! They are heavy. They are expensive. They are worth it!

Corn Husk Silker Remover Tool– It is easy to get the husks off, but getting the silks off is another story! Use this easy tool, just pass it through!

If you liked this boiled corn recipe, check out these other delicious ways to make corn:

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5 from 6 votes