Perfectly Boiled Corn on the Cob: Here’s How Long it Takes Every Time
Learning how long to boil corn is a cinch! Use these tips for perfect results each time.
Fresh corn is always an easy summer side dish to consider!
Boiling corn is one of the earliest cooking lessons I can remember, and it’s so simple and easy to do. Most would agree that enjoying a piece of juicy buttery corn on the cob is truly one of life’s simplest pleasures, especially during the summer at its sweetest.
Did you know “how long to boil corn” is an extremely popular search on Google?
I realize this is a very simple way to cook corn, but in case you’re wondering, here’s how to do it! There are so many ways to prepare corn, whether it’s in the microwave, using the Instant Pot, air fryer, grilling, roasting, or boiling corn on the cob on the stove for the most fail-proof classic method that I remember my mom and grandma doing as a kid.
This method will result in corn that is tender and sweet, and not at all mushy or soggy!
Tips for how to boil corn:
- Do you know the easiest way to shuck corn? Cut the bottom of the corn off where it connects and pull up from that end to remove the husk. I swear it’s easier!
- Try adding a tablespoon of granulated sugar and juice from one lemon to the boiling water. It may sound odd but I tried it and it really brings out the sweet corn flavor!
- Some folks prefer to add milk and butter to the boiling water. I have tried that method too, and it’s also delicious.
- Once your corn is cooked, feel free to jazz it up with additional fixings as desired. I personally love butter, salt, and pepper on mine. You could make the dressing for zesty Mexican street corn and serve it that way too.
- Uncooked corn stays fresh up to 3 days stored in the fridge, and once cooked can last 3-5 days when refrigerated.
Boiled Corn on the Cob
yield: 4 SERVINGS
prep time: 15 MINUTES
cook time: 11 MINUTES
total time: 26 MINUTES
Boiling corn is a cinch, and the result is a simple yet delicious side dish all will love.
Ingredients
Directions
1
Fill a large pot about 3/4 full of water on the stove.
2
Heat the water to boiling. If adding sugar and lemon juice, stir that in as the water starts to heat up. Add the corn to the pot once boiling.
3
Turn off the heat, cover the pot with a lid, and let the corn cook for 11-12 minutes.
4
Remove the corn from the water and top with butter and salt as desired to serve. Enjoy!
We can never get enough corn on the cob! 🌽
The method of adding lemon juice and a little granulated sugar to the boiling water brought out the flavors and was SO YUMMY. I love that corn is always an inexpensive yet tasty side dish that can be easily prepared for weekend BBQ gathering or casually during the week to pair with burgers, chicken, or ribs!
Make this delicious summer corn salad using your cooked corn!
