Boiled Corn on the Cob
Sweet, Juicy & Foolproof
When summer hits, nothing beats a big platter of sweet, buttery corn on the cob. Whether it’s for a cookout, a quick weeknight meal, or Sunday dinner, boiled corn on the cob is an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish that always satisfies.
While there are many ways to prepare corn—grilled, roasted, or even microwaved—boiling corn in milk and butter takes the flavor and texture to another level. This method makes the corn incredibly tender and flavorful, with a subtle richness that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet, rich flavor – Simmering in milk and butter adds a creamy depth that brings out the corn’s natural sweetness.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Kid-approved – Even picky eaters love buttery corn!
- Perfect for any meal – It pairs well with everything from grilled meat to pasta salads.
- No fancy tools needed – Just a large pot and simple ingredients.
Boiled Corn on the Cob
Sweet, creamy, and loaded with fresh summer flavor—this boiled corn on the cob is simmered in milk, butter, and a touch of honey for the ultimate side dish. Perfect for farm-fresh corn!
Course: Side Dish Cuisine: American
Keyword: Boiled Corn on the Cob Prep Time: 10minutes minutes
Cook Time: 7minutes minutes Total Time: 17minutes minutes Servings: 6
Ingredients
To make this boiled corn on the cob with milk and butter, you’ll need just a few pantry staples:
- 6 ears of corn, shucked
- 6 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk – or 2%, if preferred
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter – salted or unsalted
- ¼ cup sugar or honey – optional, for extra sweetness
- 2 tablespoons salt – to enhance the flavor
How to Boil Corn on the Cob with Milk and Butter
Step 1: Prep the Corn
Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Rinse under cold water to remove any leftover silk strands.
Step 2: Make the Boiling Liquid
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and add the milk, butter, sugar (or honey), and salt. Stir until the butter is melted.
Step 3: Add the Corn
Carefully place the ears of corn into the liquid. Make sure they’re mostly submerged.
Step 4: Simmer
Cover the pot and let the corn simmer gently for 7–10 minutes, depending on how tender you like it. Avoid a rapid boil—gentle simmering helps preserve flavor and texture.
Step 5: Serve
Remove corn with tongs and serve hot. Add extra butter, fresh herbs, or your favorite toppings for more flavor.
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk works best for a rich, creamy sauce.
- 1 cup beef broth – Adds a savory, meaty depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – To thicken the sauce.
- Remaining cheddar cheese (from above) – Stirred into the sauce for a velvety finish.
Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic method, try these fun twists:
- Mexican-style street corn: Brush with mayo, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
- Garlic herb: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme or rosemary to the boiling liquid.
- Parmesan butter: Toss boiled corn with melted butter, grated Parmesan, and cracked black pepper.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to make the most of them:
- Refrigerate: Store boiled corn in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave, or place ears in hot water for 2–3 minutes to refresh them.
- Freeze: Cut the kernels off the cob and freeze in a zip-top bag for later use in soups, salads, or casseroles.
What to Serve With Boiled Corn on the Cob
Corn goes with just about anything. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Grilled chicken, ribs, or steak
- Burgers or hot dogs
- Baked salmon or shrimp
- Macaroni salad or coleslaw
- Baked beans or potato wedges
It’s especially perfect for BBQs, summer parties, or potlucks.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 159 |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sugar | 18g |
| Sodium | 2387mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Potassium | 350mg |
| Vitamin A | 300 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6mg |
| Calcium | 101mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Can I boil corn with the husks on?
You can, but it’s not recommended for this recipe. The husks will block the butter and milk from infusing into the kernels. For best results, remove the husks first.
Do I need to add sugar to the water?
It’s optional. Sugar or honey enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, especially if your corn isn’t peak-season sweet.
How long should I boil corn on the cob?
Once your pot is simmering, 7 to 10 minutes is all you need. Fresh corn cooks fast—overcooking can make it mushy.
Can I use frozen corn on the cob?
Yes! Just boil directly from frozen and add a couple extra minutes to the cooking time. The milk and butter will still infuse flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. To keep corn warm, leave it in the hot liquid (with the heat off) for up to 15 minutes. You can also reheat before serving by briefly boiling again or microwaving.
What if I don’t have milk?
You can use just water and butter, but the milk gives the corn that extra creaminess. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or oat milk for a similar texture.
Final Thoughts
Boiled corn on the cob is more than just a classic summer side—it’s a comfort food staple that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. This version, cooked in milk and butter, delivers a rich, creamy flavor that elevates even the simplest corn into something truly crave-worthy.
Whether you’re prepping for a BBQ, planning a weeknight dinner, or just craving something comforting, this recipe is guaranteed to become your go-to. Fast, flavorful, and family-friendly—it checks all the boxes!
Try it once, and you’ll never want to boil corn any other way again.
