How to Microwave Corn on the Cob
Forget the grill — microwaving corn on the cob results in crisp, sweet kernels bursting with juice and flavor. You won’t want to eat corn any other way! It takes only a few minutes to cook, and you don't have to worry about boiling a big pot of water. Plus, it retains its natural sweetness and flavor without any added fats or oils.
Why Use An Anyday? By using an Anyday Shallow dish, you are guaranteeing that the corn’s own moisture (and flavor!) stays locked into each kernel. Plus, the Anyday transforms into a serving dish that will look great on your picnic table!
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Shallow Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 1 ear of fresh corn
Preparation
- Husk the corn, if necessary. Cut or break the corn cob in half and rinse.
- Place in an Anyday dish and cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 4-5 minutes, or until the corn kernels are tender.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Middle Eastern Spice: Butter or ghee, za'atar seasoning, and lime juice
- Corn Cacio e Pepe: Olive oil, black pepper, and parmesan cheese.
- Sweet Heat: Butter, hot honey, and chopped crispy bacon.
- Elote: Crema, Tajin, chopped cilantro, and crumbled tortilla chips.
Recipe notes
- While yellow corn may turn bright yellow when cooked through, some white or bi-color corn may be tricky to determine doneness. Try cutting off a few kernels to test them out, and adding more cook time if needed.
- If you are buying from your local farmer, ask how sweet the corn is. If it’s more neutral in flavor, you might need help from a pat of butter and salt.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Microwave Match Up: Corn on the Cob
See for yourself— microwaving corn is simply faster, start to finish.
| Appliance | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Microwave in an Anyday dish | 5-6 mins |
| Grill* | 20 mins |
| Stovetop* | 13 mins |
| Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* | 20 mins |
Step by Step: Microwaving Corn on the Cob
All You Need to Know About Microwaving Corn on the Cob
How long does take to cook corn on the cob in the microwave?
| Ingredient | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 1 ear of fresh corn | 4-5 mins |
| 2 ears of fresh corn | 4-5 mins |
| 3 ears of fresh corn | 5-6 mins |
| 4 ears of fresh corn | 6-7 mins |
| 5 ears of fresh corn | 6-7 mins |
| 6 ears of fresh corn | 8-9 mins |
| 7 ears of fresh corn | 9-10 mins |
It typically takes around 4-6 minutes per ear of corn to cook in the microwave. To tell when corn on the cob is cooked through, look for plump, juicy kernels and a bright yellow color. You can also test it by piercing a kernel with a fork, it should be tender but not mushy.
What is corn on the cob?
Corn on the cob is a popular dish consisting of whole corn kernels still attached to the cob. The cob is the central part of an ear of corn (maize) and the kernels are the edible part. Corn on the cob is typically boiled, steamed, or grilled, and is often served with butter, salt, and other seasonings. It is a common side dish in many cuisines, especially during the summer months when corn is in season.
Can you cook corn in the husk in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook corn in the husk in the microwave using Anyday cookware. Simply place the corn, still in its husk, into the Anyday dish, cover it with the lid, and microwave on high for about 4-5 minutes per ear of corn. If you're cooking multiple ears, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. After microwaving, let the corn sit for a couple of minutes, then carefully peel back the husk to check for tenderness. If more cooking is needed, microwave in 1-minute increments until done. This method ensures the corn is evenly cooked and retains its natural sweetness and moisture, making it a quick and convenient way to enjoy delicious corn on the cob.
How to microwave frozen corn kernels?
Microwaving frozen corn kernels is a breeze! Place them in an Anyday, cover them with the lid, and microwave for 2-3 minutes per ear.
How to freeze microwave corn?
To freeze microwaved corn, first, cook the corn on the cob in the microwave, then cut the kernels off and let them cool. Place them in the Anytime Freezer Trays or freezer bag and freeze them for later use.
Is it better to steam or boil corn in the cob?
As a matter of fact, skip boiling! When you boil corn, some of the good stuff like folate (which is important in the formation of red blood cells) ends up in the water instead of in your belly. So, you'll miss out on those nutritional perks. Steaming it in the Anyday will keep the vitamins and nutrients right where they need to be, in the corn, so that when you eat it you eat wholesomely.
Which one is sweeter, yellow or white corn?
The color of corn doesn't necessarily indicate its sweetness! Corn grown for human consumption (different from that grown for cattle) comes in three main types in the USA: dent corn (used mostly for livestock), flint corn (used mostly for grinding), and sweet corn (best to consume fresh). Sweet corn, which comes in varying levels of sweetness such as normal sugar, sugar enhanced, and super sweet, depends on location and the time of the season. So, no matter the color, enjoy corn all summer long!
How can I prevent grilled corn from drying?
Start by steaming the corn on the cob in the Anyday to enhance its natural sweetness and plump up those kernels for juicy and tender sweet corn. Then, when everything else is nearly ready, quickly grill the corn for 1-2 minutes on a very hot grill. This will give you deliciously charred, smoky corn that won't stick to your teeth!
