Print

Easy Simple Corn on the Cob Boiled to Perfection Recipe for Perfect Summer Side

boiled corn on the cob - featured image

A straightforward, fuss-free boiled corn on the cob recipe that yields perfectly tender, sweet, and juicy corn, ideal for summer gatherings and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 8 cups (1.9 liters) water
  • 1 tablespoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Butter, unsalted and softened, for serving
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Peel back the husks and remove all silk threads from the corn. Rinse each ear under cool running water to wash away any stubborn silk (about 5 minutes for 4 ears).
  2. Pour 8 cups (1.9 liters) of water into a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt and optional 1 teaspoon sugar. Stir gently to dissolve.
  3. Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil (7-10 minutes).
  4. Carefully lower the ears of corn into the boiling water using tongs. The water will stop boiling briefly.
  5. Boil the corn for exactly 4-6 minutes: 4 minutes for slightly crisp kernels, 6 minutes for more tender corn.
  6. Use tongs to lift the corn out of the pot and place in a colander to drain excess water.
  7. Serve immediately while hot, slathered with softened butter and sprinkled with freshly ground black pepper if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the corn to avoid mushy kernels. Use fresh corn for best sweetness. Adding a teaspoon of sugar to the boiling water is optional but enhances natural sweetness. Work in batches if boiling large quantities to avoid overcrowding. Keep an eye on water level and add more if needed during cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: boiled corn on the cob, summer side dish, easy corn recipe, simple corn, quick corn recipe, sweet corn, corn on the cob