How to Boil Corn on the Cob

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!

seasoned corn on the cob


 

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.
corn on the cob seasoning

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.

how long to boil corn

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.
boiling corn

Boil Corn on the Cob

5 from 14 votes
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!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

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

If you are using unsalted butter, add 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt to boiling water.

Nutrition

Calories: 198 kcal, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 4 g, Fat: 14 g, Saturated Fat: 8 g, Cholesterol: 34 mg, Sodium: 128 mg, Potassium: 283 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 7 g, Vitamin A: 570 IU, Vitamin C: 6.1 mg, Calcium: 40 mg, Iron: 0.5 mg
Calories: 198
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: boiling corn, how long to boil corn, how to boil corn on the cob
Did you make this recipe?I’d love to see your recipes – snap a picture and mention @savoryexperiments or tag #savoryexperiments!

Storage and Freezing

How to store?

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.

Can I freeze cooked corn on the cob?

You can, but I recommend cutting it off the cob first. Store in a freezer bag or airtight container.

Your Questions, Answered

Do you put corn in before or after the water boils?

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.

How do I know when my corn on the cob is done boiling?

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.

how to boil corn for pinterest
Jessica Formicola in her ktichen

About the Author

Chef Jessica Anne Formicola

Jessica the mom, wife and chef behind Savory Experiments. You might see her on the Emmy- nominated TV show Plate It! or on bookshelves as a cookbook author. Jessica is a Le Cordon Bleu certified recipe developer and regularly contributed to Parade, Better Homes & Gardens, The Daily Meal, Mashed and more!

Read More About Jessica

5 from 14 votes (1 rating without comment)

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Questions and Reviews

  1. 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.

  2. 5 stars
    I’ll never boil corn on the cob any other way! Adding butter and milk makes a huge difference. Thanks for sharing your method!

  3. 5 stars
    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!