How to Microwave Frozen Corn

//cookanyday.com/cdn/shop/files/CornFrozen_360x.webp?v=1722358262 Perfectly cooked frozen corn made and served in the glass Anyday dish, providing sweet and tender kernels. This method ensures evenly cooked corn with no thawing needed, ideal for quick and delicious side dishes or adding to various recipes.
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Prep Time

1 min

Cook Time

3 mins

Free Time

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Frozen corn kernels are incredibly sweet, and bright, and have more bite than than their canned counterparts. Using an Anyday dish with its vented lid, you can easily microwave frozen corn to perfection, preserving its natural flavor and nutrients.

Frozen corn is perfect for enhancing countless dishes such as pasta, soups, cooked grains and salads. Unlike many canned versions, frozen corn does not contain added sugar, allowing you to enjoy the natural sweetness of the ingredient as it should.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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What You’ll Need

What You’ll Need

The Small Dish

This dish’s superpower is evenly heating leftovers and cooking small portions.

The Anyhand Mitts

Handle hot Anyday dishes with care with these microwave mitts that double as trivets!
Try Anyday

Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

1 cup frozen corn

Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

[[video-wattage]]

To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

Microwave oven by power - 700w
700w

Recommended 

Dish

The Small Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (120g) frozen corn kernels, keep frozen
  • ¼ teaspoon water

Preparation

  1. Add the still-frozen corn kernels to an Anyday dish with the water and salt to taste Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook in the microwave for 3 minutes, or until the kernels are heated through.
  3. Drain the excess water before serving or storing.

Serving suggestions & tips

  • Mexican street corn style: Toss the cooked corn with mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice, and crumbled cotija cheese.
  • Cajun-spiced: Season the cooked corn with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
  • Miso butter: Combine the cooked corn with miso paste, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
  • BBQ corn: Toss the cooked corn with BBQ sauce, chopped jalapeño, and diced white onion.

Recipe notes

  • Frozen corn kernels do not need to be thawed!  (This is the ultimate time-saving hack.)
  • For corn on the cob, follow the directions in this recipe.
  • Select the wattage on your microwave in our recipe for the most accurate cook time, or use the instructions on the back of the package as guidelines.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Microwave Match Up: Frozen Corn

See for yourself— microwaving frozen corn is simply faster, start to finish.

Appliance Cook Time
Microwave in an Anyday dish 2-4 mins
Stovetop* 7-10 mins
Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* 10-15 mins
*Includes defrosting time

All You Need to Know About Microwaving Frozen Corn

Can I cook frozen corn kernels in the microwave?

Ingredient Cook Time
1 cup frozen corn 3 mins
2 cups frozen corn 4-5 mins
4 cups frozen corn 6-7 mins
6 cups frozen corn 9 mins
8 cups frozen corn 13-14 mins
Cook time calculated for 700w microwave

Yes, you can cook frozen corn kernels in the microwave using an Anyday dish. This method is quick and convenient, allowing you to enjoy delicious corn with minimal effort. Simply follow the microwave cooking instructions for perfectly cooked corn kernels. For corn on the cob, follow the directions in this recipe for How to Cook Corn on the Cob.

How long does it take to cook frozen corn kernels in the microwave?

Microwaving frozen corn kernels typically takes 3-4 minutes for 1 cup in the Anyday dish. Adjust the cooking time based on the quantity and desired texture. For the best results, start with the lower time range and add more time as needed.

Shall I thaw the frozen corn before microwaving?

No, you do not need to thaw the frozen corn kernels before microwaving. You can cook them directly from the freezer. Just place them in an Anyday dish, cover them with the vented lid, and follow the cooking instructions.

How do I know when frozen corn kernels are properly cooked in the microwave?

Frozen corn kernels are properly cooked when they are fully heated through and the kernels are bright in color and plump. If you're unsure, test a small piece for doneness. Remember, microwaves vary, so adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it safe to consume frozen corn kernels?

Yes, frozen corn kernels are completely safe to consume. They are flash-frozen at their peak freshness, ensuring the retention of essential nutrients and delightful flavor throughout.

What's the best way to store leftover cooked corn kernels?

Store leftover cooked corn kernels in the refrigerator in an Anyday dish with the lid on to lock in freshness. Cooked corn will typically stay fresh for 2-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave 1-2 minutes for 1 cup, checking periodically until they reach the desired temperature. Do not re-freeze cooked frozen corn.

What are some recipe ideas to use frozen corn in?

Frozen corn kernels can be used in various delicious recipes, such as Brown Butter Creamed Corn, Miso Butter Corn, or Corn Succotash, or added to pasta, rice, soups, and casseroles.

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