How to Microwave Corn on the Cob (Easiest Way)

Want a super simple way to cook corn on the cob?

Microwave your corn on the cob in the husk. It takes just a few minutes, makes it much easier to remove the husk, and results in perfectly cooked corn with no mess!

The microwave also helps retain the natural sweetness of the corn.

No need to boil or mess with pots and pans. Just layer on some butter, a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper and you’re ready for summer!

Perfect for picnics, BBQs, and summer cookouts.

Shopping for the Best Corn on the Cob

When shopping for corn, check for its freshness by looking at the husks. They should be bright green and wrapped closely around the corn. Also, the silks should be brown and sticky – not black and dry.

How Do You Store Fresh Corn on the Cob?

Whether you get ears of corn from the Farmer’s market or the local grocery, be sure to place them in the refrigerator as soon as possible.

Leave the husk on and let it sit in the fridge uncovered. Corn on the cob should be stored in a cool place until you’re ready to use it.

How Long to Cook Corn in the Microwave

Here’s how long to cook your corn, based on how many pieces you need. But regardless of how many cobs you’re cooking, always be sure to microwave on high.

1 ear – 2 minutes
2 ears – 4 minutes
3 ears – 5 minutes
4 ears – 6 minutes

Also keep in mind that these times can vary based on your microwave wattage. When it comes to cooking, no two microwaves (or ovens) are exactly alike. So if you find that your corn is slightly over or under-cooked, adjust accordingly.

How to Reheat Corn on the Cob in the Microwave

If you have some leftover corn on the cob, you can store it in the refrigerator and reheat it within 3 to 4 days.

Simply place the corn on a microwave-safe dish. Wrap each cob in a damp paper towel.

Microwave in 10-20 second bursts. This prevents the corn from “popping”. Reheat until corn is warm and ready to serve.

Or check out my post on how to freeze corn on the cob.

Tips & Tricks

• If you want to microwave the corn without the husks on, you may still do so and keep its juiciness. Just be sure to place a damp paper towel around the corn instead of the husks.

• Got some extra corn? Use leftovers to make a corn salad, corn chowder, or corn fritters! All very simple recipes.

• While regular butter makes corn oh so much more delicious, you can kick things up a notch by making your very own herbed butter. Use your favorite herbs and pop them in the food processor along with the butter!

• If you are one of those people who find it difficult to butter their corn with a butter knife, use a piece of bread instead! Spread butter on white bread, wrap the corn with the bread, and twist away! You’ll not only get perfectly buttered corn but a nice buttered bread on the side too.

• Need to cut the corn kernels off the cob? Easy – just use a bundt pan! Place the corn into the bundt pan’s hole and slice the kernels away. Not only is it super easy, but the corn kernels will also slide off into the pan. 

• If you’ve sliced the kernels off the cobs, don’t throw the cobs away! These guys are packed with so much flavor, you can use them to season stews and stocks.