Corn on the cob is the iconic taste of summer, bursting with sweetness and perfect for barbecues, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner. Did you know you can cook corn on the cob in the microwave in just a few minutes?

What is the trick for microwaving corn on the cob? Cooking it in its husk! This method helps to trap heat and steam the corn, retaining its natural moisture, flavor, and nutrients.

Why Microwave Corn on the Cob?

It takes just a few minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
No need to boil water or fire up the grill.
The corn cooks in its own husk, preserving its natural sweetness and juiciness.
Minimal dishes to wash afterward.

How to microwave corn on the cob

Ingredient Checklist

Fresh corn on the cob (in husks)
Microwave-safe plate
Kitchen towel or oven mitts
Sharp knife

Instructions:

The first step is to select ears of corn that are fresh and still in their husks. The husks should be green and tightly wrapped around the corn, with the silk ends slightly sticky.

Using a sharp knife, trim off the excess silk from the top of the corn and the stalk at the bottom. This makes handling the corn easier and ensures even cooking.

How long do you cook corn on the cob in the microwave? Place corn on a microwave-safe dish. Cook on high for 3-5 minutes per ear. For example, if you’re cooking an additional ear, microwave for 6-10 minutes. Adjust the time based on your microwave’s power and the number of ears you’re cooking.

Depending on your microwave wattage, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Start with the recommended time and add 30 second intervals if needed.

After microwaving, let the corn sit in its husk for a couple of minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the corn, making it even juicier.

Carefully remove the plate from the microwave using a kitchen towel or oven mitts, as it will be hot. Let the corn sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly and finish steaming.

Once the corn is cool enough to handle, peel back the husks and silk. They should come off easily, leaving you with perfectly cooked corn. You can use a kitchen towel to hold the corn if it’s still too hot.

Add your favorite toppings such as butter, salt, pepper, or any other seasoning you love. While melted butter and salt are classics, try sprinkling on some grated Parmesan, chili powder, or a squeeze of lime for a fun twist.

Corn on the Cob with butter and old bay seasoning in white casserole dish

Store leftover corn in an airtight container.

You can also use your corn kernels for recipes like corn fritters, honey butter skillet corn, or corn salad.

Try These Recipes:

How to Microwave Corn on the Cob

Name: How to Microwave Corn on the Cob
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 4 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Corn on the cob, still in the husk.; Salt, pepper; Butter

Yield: 1 corn on the cob

Cook Time: 4 minutes

Total Time: 4 minutes

Learn the best way to make corn in the cob: right in your microwave oven! Summer corn comes out delicious and perfectly steamed. This method of cooking juicy corn is completely foolproof! Give it a try!

Ingredients

Corn on the cob, still in the husk.  
Salt, pepper  
Butter

Instructions

Trim the edges off of the husk of the corn.
Put the corn on the cob in the microwave.
Microwave for 4 minutes.
Take the corn on the cob out. Let it sit for a few minutes so you can handle it.
Shuck the corn out of the husk.
Butter the corn on the cob, sprinkle with salt and pepper and any of your favorite corn on the cob toppings!
Continue for all of the corn on the cob!