Introduction
If there’s one thing that represents summer to me, it’s fresh corn on the cob. There are few things in this world that taste better than a hot grilled ear of sweet corn, or a plate piled high with roasted kernels. It’s so simple and so delicious—but how long does it take to cook fresh corn on the cob? Well, that depends on how you’re cooking your cobs.
How long to cook fresh corn on the cob depends on how you’re cooking it.
- Boiling: 5 minutes or less
- Grilling: 15 minutes to 20 minutes
- Roasting: 20 minutes at 425 degrees F, turning often with tongs (or in a slow oven)
If you’re boiling corn, it should be done in 5 minutes or less.
If you’re boiling corn, it should be done in 5 minutes or less. If you boil longer, it will be over-cooked and may have a mushy texture.
How do I know when my corn on the cob is done?
When the kernels are tender enough that they can easily be pierced by a fork and pulled off of the cob with little effort (but remember that this means that they’re not actually “crispy” anymore). This generally takes between 6-10 minutes depending on how fresh your corn is!
If you’re grilling corn, choose ears with a nice husk and grill over medium-high heat for 15 minutes to 20 minutes, turning once or twice.
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If you’re roasting corn, bake at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, turning at least once.
If you’re roasting corn, bake at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, turning at least once.
The kernels should be tender and the husks caramelized when done. You can use this method to cook fresh or frozen whole ears of corn as well as cut kernels off the cob (which are called “kernels”). If using frozen kernels, thaw them first in a bowl of cold water before baking them in the oven.
Corn on the cob is best served hot off the grill with butter and salt; however it can also be used in salads and soups. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A and C as well as fiber!
If you’re microwaving corn, cook in batches of 5 to 6 ears for 4 1/2 to 5 minutes per batch. Watch closely so it doesn’t overcook!
- If you’re microwaving corn, cook in batches of 5 to 6 ears for 4 1/2 to 5 minutes per batch. Watch closely so it doesn’t overcook!
- Microwave times vary depending on the power of your microwave and how many ears you’re cooking at once, so start with this time and then adjust as needed.
Cooking time depends on how you’re cooking your fresh corn
Cooking time depends on how you’re cooking your fresh corn.
Boiling: Boil the corn in a large pot of water for 5 minutes, then drain and serve.
Grilling: Grill over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes per side, turning occasionally with tongs.
Roasting: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Brush ears with oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired. Place on baking sheet/tray; roast for 30 minutes or until tender when pierced with fork at end of cob.* Microwave: Microwave unshucked ears on high power 4-5 minutes per ear until tender when pierced with fork at end of cob.*
Conclusion
If you’re cooking fresh corn on the cob, don’t worry about the time it takes to cook. The most important thing is that you enjoy yourself!