There's something incredibly satisfying about enjoying corn on the cob during a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. This simple yet delicious recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the corn while adding a touch of richness with butter and a hint of salt. It's a classic side dish that pairs well with almost any main course.
The ingredients for this recipe are quite straightforward and likely to be found in most kitchens. However, if you don't have fresh corn on the cob, you can easily find it in the produce section of your local supermarket. Make sure to choose ears that are fresh and free from blemishes. Butter and salt are pantry staples, but if you prefer, you can use unsalted butter and adjust the salt to your taste.

Ingredients for Corn on the Cob Recipe
Corn on the cob: Fresh ears of corn, husked and cleaned, are the star of this dish.
Butter: Melted butter adds a rich, creamy flavor to the corn.
Salt: A sprinkle of salt enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When boiling corn on the cob, adding a tablespoon of sugar to the water can enhance the natural sweetness of the corn. Additionally, for a smoky flavor, consider grilling the corn after boiling for a few minutes on each side. This will give the corn a delightful char and deepen its flavor profile.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
corn on the cob - Substitute with frozen corn kernels: If fresh corn on the cob is not available, frozen corn kernels can be used. They are convenient and still retain much of the flavor and texture of fresh corn.
corn on the cob - Substitute with canned corn: Canned corn is another alternative that is readily available and can be used in place of fresh corn on the cob. It is pre-cooked and can be seasoned similarly.
melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and can provide a rich flavor similar to melted butter.
melted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct substitute for melted butter and is often more affordable.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in place of regular salt for a slightly different flavor profile and texture.
salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds an extra layer of flavor while still providing the saltiness needed for the dish.
Other Alternative Recipes
How to Store or Freeze Your Corn on the Cob
- Allow the corn on the cob to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the corn soggy.
- Wrap each ear of corn individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped corn in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of storage time.
- Store the corn in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3-5 days. For longer storage, place the wrapped ears in the freezer.
- When freezing, ensure the corn is placed in a single layer initially to freeze quickly and evenly. Once frozen, you can stack them to save space.
- To reheat refrigerated corn on the cob, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, steam it for 3-5 minutes, or grill it for a few minutes until heated through.
- For frozen corn, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or cook directly from frozen by boiling for 5-7 minutes or microwaving for 3-4 minutes.
- If you prefer, you can cut the corn kernels off the cob before freezing. Spread the kernels on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a resealable bag. This method allows you to use the corn in soups, salads, or other dishes without needing to thaw an entire cob.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap each corn on the cob in aluminum foil, adding a small pat of butter inside the foil for extra moisture. Place the wrapped corn on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- For a quick and easy method, place the corn on the cob in the microwave. Wrap each ear in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Check for doneness and heat for an additional minute if necessary.
- If you prefer a grilled flavor, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn on the cob with a bit of melted butter and place it directly on the grill. Turn occasionally and grill for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and slightly charred.
- For stovetop reheating, fill a large skillet with about 1 inch of water and bring to a simmer. Place the corn on the cob in the skillet, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. Add a touch of salt and butter before serving.
- If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the corn on the cob in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with salt before serving.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the corn. It should be big enough to hold all the ears of corn and allow them to be fully submerged in water.
Tongs: Tongs are used to safely remove the hot corn from the boiling water without burning your hands.
Serving dish: A serving dish is where you will place the cooked corn once it has been removed from the pot. It should be large enough to hold all the ears of corn.
Basting brush: A basting brush is used to apply the melted butter evenly over the corn.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure out the butter and salt accurately.
Stove: A stove is necessary to bring the water to a boil in the large pot.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Pre-boil the water: Start boiling the water while you husk and clean the corn to save time.
Use a timer: Set a timer for 10 minutes to ensure perfectly cooked corn on the cob without overcooking.
Melt butter in advance: Melt the butter while the corn is cooking to streamline the process.
Season efficiently: Have your salt ready to sprinkle immediately after brushing with melted butter.
Batch cooking: Cook multiple ears of corn at once to save time if you’re serving a crowd.

Corn on the Cob Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 ears Corn on the cob Husked and cleaned
- 2 tablespoon Butter Melted
- 1 teaspoon Salt To taste
Instructions
- 1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
- 2. Add the corn and cook for 10 minutes.
- 3. Remove the corn with tongs and place on a serving dish.
- 4. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with salt. Serve hot.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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