If you have ever found yourself craving fresh, sweet corn but dread the hassle of boiling or grilling, this Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s so quick, simple, and delicious that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Using just raw ears of corn in their husks, you can get that perfectly tender, juicy corn with minimal effort. Plus, the microwave method locks in all the natural sweetness and steam, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re short on time or just want an easy side dish that delivers on flavor, this recipe is a total winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity here — each ingredient plays an important role in making this dish shine. You just need fresh corn and a few basic seasonings to lift its natural goodness. The minimal ingredients mean you get pure, vibrant corn flavor with a buttery finish if you like.
- 4 ears of corn in husks: Fresh, in-season corn ensures maximum sweetness and moisture during microwaving.
- Butter (optional): Adds richness and smoothness when spread over the hot corn.
- Salt (optional): Enhances flavor by balancing natural sweetness.
- Pepper (optional): Offers a mild spice contrast to round out the taste.
How to Make Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Start by grabbing your fresh ears of corn, making sure they are still wrapped tightly in their husks. No need to shuck or trim yet—keeping them in their natural coverings helps lock in moisture as they cook.
Step 2: Microwave the Corn
Place the ears directly inside your microwave. For one ear, cook on high for 4 minutes, but if you’re making two to four ears, increase the time to 5-6 minutes depending on your microwave’s power. This steaming happens inside the husk itself, giving you moist kernels without needing any extra water.
Step 3: Let It Rest
Once the microwave dings, give the corn 1 to 2 minutes to cool slightly before handling. This pause lets the steam finish cooking the kernels and prevents burning your fingers when you shuck them.
Step 4: Shuck and Serve
With a kitchen towel or oven mitt, carefully trim about an inch off the stalk end. Then firmly grasp the top of the husk and slide the ear out, silk and all—they should come away clean! Now your corn is ready for butter, salt, and pepper, or any toppings you fancy.
How to Serve Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipe
Garnishes
Butter is the classic, but don’t stop there! Sprinkle some smoked paprika, fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro, or even a little grated Parmesan cheese for extra indulgence. A squeeze of lime can also brighten things up beautifully.
Side Dishes
This microwaved corn pairs wonderfully with barbeque, grilled meats, or even a fresh garden salad. Think of it as a quick, vibrant side that can complement almost any hearty or light meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the corn still partially in its husk for a rustic look that invites guests to shuck their own. Or arrange whole ears vertically in a serving jar or tall glass for a charming buffet display. A drizzle of flavored oils, chili lime seasoning, or even a dollop of compound butter transforms this simple side into a star!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover corn, wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. Eat within 2 days to keep the best texture and sweetness.
Freezing
While freezing cooked corn on the cob isn’t ideal for texture, you can cut the kernels off and freeze those in airtight bags or containers to use later in soups or salads.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave the corn again for 30 to 60 seconds or until heated through. You can also steam briefly or warm on a grill to recapture a bit of fresh-cooked flavor.
FAQs
Can I microwave corn without the husk?
Yes, but leaving the husk on helps trap steam and prevents the kernels from drying out during cooking. Without the husk, you’ll want to wrap the corn in a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
How do I know when the corn is done in the microwave?
The cooking times given are a guide, but once the husks feel hot to the touch and you can smell the sweet corn aroma, it’s usually perfectly cooked. Avoid overcooking to keep the kernels crisp and juicy.
Can I cook more than four ears at once?
Microwaves vary, but if you want to cook more than four ears, you may need to increase the cooking time or do multiple batches for even cooking.
Does this method work year-round?
This Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipe works best with fresh, in-season corn that has high natural moisture. Off-season corn might be less sweet or more fibrous, but it still cooks well in the microwave.
Are there any special tips for flavoring the corn?
Absolutely! Experiment with compound butters mixed with herbs, citrus zest, or spices. You can also sprinkle on chili powder, smoked paprika, or grated cheeses to add personality to your corn.
Final Thoughts
This Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipe really is a game-changer for anyone who loves fresh corn but wants to skip the fuss. It’s fast, easy, and creates mouthwatering, juicy ears of corn every time. Next time you need a tasty side or a quick snack, give this method a try—you might just find your new favorite corn routine!
Print
Microwave Corn on the Cob Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Description
This Microwave Corn on the Cob recipe offers a quick and convenient way to enjoy fresh, juicy corn without the need for boiling water or grilling. By microwaving the corn in its husk, it steams perfectly, resulting in tender kernels that easily slip off the cob along with the silk. Serve immediately with butter, salt, and pepper for a simple yet flavorful side dish ideal for busy weeknights or when fresh corn is in season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, in husks
- Butter, to taste (optional, for serving)
- Salt, to taste (optional, for serving)
- Pepper, to taste (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: Place the ears of corn in their husks directly into the microwave. Keeping the corn husked ensures the corn steams and cooks evenly inside.
- Microwave the Corn: Microwave on high for 4 minutes for one ear, or 5 to 6 minutes if cooking 2 to 4 ears, adjusting time depending on your microwave’s wattage. This quick steaming process softens the kernels perfectly.
- Let the Corn Cool Slightly: After microwaving, let the corn sit inside the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes to cool down slightly, making it safer to handle.
- Remove the Husk and Silk: Using a kitchen towel or oven mitt, carefully cut off the stalk end of each ear about 1 inch above the base. Hold the top of the husk and squeeze and shake the ear of corn out; the silk should slide off cleanly along with the husk.
- Serve: Serve the hot corn immediately with butter, salt, and pepper if desired. For extra flavor, add seasoned butter or sprinkle with cheese and herbs.
Notes
- This method works best with fresh, in-season corn for optimal flavor and texture.
- For added taste, rub corn with seasoned butter or top with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
- Cooking times may vary based on the microwave wattage, so check doneness accordingly.
- Be cautious when handling hot corn right after microwaving to avoid burns.
