If you’re craving sweet, juicy corn on the cob without the hassle of firing up the grill or boiling a huge pot of water, this Microwaved Corn on the Cob Recipe is your new best friend. It’s incredibly quick, simple, and results in tender kernels bursting with naturally sweet flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute side dishes. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll wonder why you ever did it any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Microwaved Corn on the Cob Recipe is in its simplicity. With just a few essential ingredients, you get that perfect balance of natural sweetness, buttery richness, and a touch of seasoning that makes corn truly shine.
- 2 Tbsp. water: This small amount of water creates steam, gently cooking the corn to tender perfection without drying it out.
- 2 cobs of corn, shucked or not shucked: Fresh corn is the star; you can microwave it with husks on or off depending on how you like your texture.
- 2 Tbsp. butter: Adding this at the end brings a creamy, indulgent finish that complements the natural sweetness of the kernels.
- ¼ tsp. salt: Just enough to highlight the flavors without overpowering the delicate taste of the corn.
How to Make Microwaved Corn on the Cob Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Plate with Water
Start by pouring 2 tablespoons of water onto a large microwave-safe dinner plate. This water is critical because it generates steam during cooking, locking in moisture and preventing the corn from drying out.
Step 2: Arrange the Corn on the Plate
Place two cobs of corn directly onto the plate. You can opt to leave the husks on for an extra-steamed effect or shuck the corn beforehand for quicker cooking. Both methods yield fantastic results.
Step 3: Cover with a Second Plate
Now, carefully invert another dinner plate on top, covering the corn completely. This creates a mini steam chamber that cooks the corn evenly and gently, ensuring each kernel becomes tender and sweet.
Step 4: Microwave the Corn
Pop the covered plate into the microwave and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the kernels deepen slightly in color and feel tender when poked. Heating times may vary slightly depending on your microwave wattage, so keep an eye on that beautiful golden hue.
Step 5: Remove the Husk (if Needed)
If you left the husks on, wait a minute then cut off about half an inch from the stem end of each cob. Wearing oven mitts for safety, grasp all husks at the pointed end and squeeze toward the cut end, sliding the corn out from the husk effortlessly. This step keeps your hands safe from steam and heat while making husking a breeze.
Step 6: Drain Excess Water and Add Corn Holders
Carefully drain any standing water from the plate. If you have corn holders, stick them into the ends of each cob now to make eating mess-free and more fun!
Step 7: Butter and Salt Your Corn
Spread 1 tablespoon of butter generously over each cob while it’s hot, allowing it to melt into each kernel. Finish off with a sprinkle of salt to elevate the flavor—this little touch turns humble corn into a mouthwatering treat.
How to Serve Microwaved Corn on the Cob Recipe
Garnishes
To make your microwaved corn on the cob a little more exciting, consider adding fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley, chives, or even a dusting of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note. A squeeze of lime can brighten the flavors beautifully as well.
Side Dishes
Microwaved corn on the cob is a perfect sidekick to grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or a fresh summer salad. It also pairs wonderfully with baked potatoes or a hearty coleslaw, making your meal both colorful and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For family gatherings or parties, serve your corn on a wooden platter lined with lettuce leaves for a rustic look. You can also slice the kernels off the cob and toss them into a fresh salsa or corn salad for a versatile twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover corn on the cob, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavor and moisture for up to 2 days—perfect for a quick snack or adding to other dishes.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked corn on the cob by first letting it cool completely, then wrapping each cob in plastic and placing them in freezer bags. When properly stored, they’ll last for up to 3 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
To bring your leftover corn back to life, microwave it wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30-45 seconds until warm. This method retains moisture so your corn won’t dry out or get rubbery.
FAQs
Can I microwave corn on the cob without shucking it?
Absolutely! Leaving the husk on actually helps steam the corn naturally, keeping it juicy and tender. Just remember to remove the silk after cooking for the best eating experience.
How do I know when the corn is done?
The kernels will turn a deeper yellow and feel tender when poked with a fork. Usually, 4 to 5 minutes in the microwave is perfect, but every microwave is different, so adjust timing slightly as needed.
Can I cook more than two ears of corn at once?
Yes, as long as your microwave-safe plate can hold them in a single layer and the corn is evenly spaced. You might need to extend cooking time by a minute or two to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Is it necessary to put water on the plate?
Yes, the water is essential for creating steam which gently cooks the corn, preventing it from drying out and enhancing the natural sweetness of the kernels.
What if I don’t have another plate to cover the corn?
You can use a microwave-safe cover or even microwave-safe plastic wrap (vented to allow steam to escape). The cover traps steam, which is key to cooking the corn evenly and keeping it moist.
Final Thoughts
This Microwaved Corn on the Cob Recipe is one of my favorite kitchen shortcuts that never compromises on flavor or texture. It’s fast, easy, and yields perfectly tender corn that feels like summer in every bite. Next time you want a delicious side with minimal fuss, give this recipe a try—I promise it will become a staple in your recipe box!
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Microwaved Corn on the Cob Recipe
- Total Time: 6-7 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This quick and easy microwaved corn on the cob recipe delivers tender, flavorful corn with minimal fuss. Using just a microwave, water, butter, and salt, you can enjoy perfectly cooked corn in under 5 minutes—a perfect side dish for any meal or a quick snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. water
- 2 cobs of corn, shucked or not shucked
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- ¼ tsp. salt
Instructions
- Prepare the plate: Put 2 tablespoons of water onto a large microwave-safe dinner plate to provide steam during cooking.
- Place the corn: Arrange two cobs of corn on the plate, whether shucked or with husks intact.
- Cover the corn: Invert a second dinner plate over the first to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
- Microwave the corn: Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes until the kernels deepen in color and become tender.
- Remove husks if necessary: If the corn was not shucked, cut off ½ inch from the stem end of each cob. Wearing oven mitts, grasp all the husks at the pointed end and squeeze down toward the cut end to loosen and remove.
- Drain water: Carefully drain any water remaining on the plate to avoid drips.
- Serve with seasoning: Insert corn holders if desired, spread butter over the hot corn, and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary based on microwave wattage; check corn at 4 minutes for doneness.
- For juicier corn, cook cobs with husks on and remove after microwaving.
- Use oven mitts when handling hot corn and plates to avoid burns.
- Add other seasonings like pepper, paprika, or lime juice for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
