Microwave Corn On The Cob Recipe

Calendar icon Published: May 20th 2022 by Sarah Leadon
Clock icon Last updated: Dec 19th 2024
Read time: 5 mins
Cuisine:
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Front View of Microwave Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is sweet, buttery, and delicious. However, cooking corn in a pot of boiling water is not necessarily the best idea. 

Water-soluble nutrients such as folate will be leached into the water, and you will be missing out on beneficial nutrients. Luckily, you can cook corn on the cob in the microwave; no boiling water is needed. 

We show you how to make corn on the cob in two ways: with or without husk. It doesn't matter which method you use to make microwave corn on the cob; once you serve it with a bit of butter, salt, and pepper, the corn on the cob will be equally delicious and satisfying.

  • Microwave cooking makes corn on the cob a breeze. No need for a pot of boiling water or long cooking times.
  • Choose between the husk-on method for a steaming effect or the husk-off method for a quicker cooking.
  • Corn is a naturally sweet and healthy side dish.

  • Enjoy corn on the cob as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or BBQ.
  • For a lighter option, pair it with a summer salad.
  • Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lime juice for a flavor boost.

  • Substitute olive oil or melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter for a touch of spice.
  • In a pinch, you can use frozen corn on the cob. Follow the package instructions for microwave cooking and season as desired.

  • Corn on the cob: Look for fresh ears with bright green husks that feel plump and tight. When you peel back the husk, the kernels should be golden yellow and plump, not shriveled.
  • Butter: This adds richness and creaminess to the corn, complementing its natural sweetness. For the best texture, use butter that's softened at room temperature for about 30 minutes. It should be spreadable but not melted.
  • Salt: A sprinkle of salt enhances the flavor of the corn. Use good quality sea salt or kosher salt for the best results.
  • Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth and complexity to the dish. Avoid pre-ground pepper as it loses its flavor over time.

How long do you microwave a large ear of corn?

The rule is to cook each ear of corn for 2 minutes. However, if you are cooking multiple ears of corn, you will need to add additional time to the cooking time. For example, if you are cooking two ears of corn, you will cook it for 6 minutes, and if you were cooking four ears, you will cook it for 10 minutes.

How long does it take to microwave corn on the cob without husk?

It takes about 3-5 minutes to microwave corn on the cob without the husk. However, depending on your microwave, it may take a bit longer.

Can I microwave frozen corn?

Yes, you can microwave frozen corn. First, place the corn on the cob in a microwave-safe dish with a lid and add 1/2-inch of water to the container. Next, place the top of the corn on the cob and heat it in the microwave. 

For example, if you are cooking 4-6 ears of corn, cook it on high for 14-15 minutes. In contrast, if you are cooking 2-3 ears of corn, cook it on high for 10-12 minutes.

How to make Corn on the Cob in a microwave?

How to microwave corn on the cob in the best way possible? Leave the husks on (give them a quick rinse if needed) and microwave for 3-4 minutes per cob, depending on size. Let them cool slightly, then shuck and devour! 

If you prefer husk-free corn, simply remove the husks and silk, wrap each cob in a damp paper towel, and microwave for 2-3 minutes per cob. Whichever way you choose, season with butter, salt, and pepper for a perfect summer side dish!

Author: Sarah Leadon
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Time & Serves

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
15 mins
Serves
4 persons

Ingredients

  • 4 ears of corn on the cob

  • 4 tablespoons butter

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Cooking Corn on the Cob with the husk on

Remove the top layers of silk from the top of the corn if they are soggy or falling off.

Place the corn on the cob onto a microwave-safe dish and cook it for 2 1/2 minutes. Next, turn the cob over with a pair of tongs and cook it for 2 1/2 minutes. If the corn on the cob is not done, cook it for an additional 5 minutes, turning it over halfway through.

Using oven mitts, remove the corn on the cob from the microwave.

Place the corn on the cob onto a cutting board and use a knife to cut through the stump of the corn. Make sure you cut through the corn kernels and the stem to ensure the husk will slip off.

Wrap each ear of corn with a clean kitchen towel and squeeze the corn out of the hole you just made.

Remove any lingering silk from the corn and place the corn onto a serving platter.

Add a tablespoon of butter to each ear of corn and sprinkle them with salt and pepper before serving.

Cooking Corn on the Cob without the husk

Shuck each ear of corn. Wrap each ear of corn with a wet paper towel.

Place the ears of corn onto a microwave-safe dish and heat it on full power for 2 1/2 minutes. Next, flip the ears of corn over and cook them for an additional 2 1/2 minutes. If the corn on the cob is not done, cook it for an additional 5 minutes, turning it over halfway through.

Using oven mitts, remove the corn from the microwave.

Unwrap each ear of corn and place them onto a serving platter.

Add a tablespoon of butter to each ear of corn and sprinkle them with salt and pepper before serving.

Sarah Leadon
Author:
Senior Recipe Developer & Food Writer

More posts by Sarah Leadon

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