Steamed corn on the cob is an easy and convenient way to enjoy a classic summertime vegetable side dish anytime you'd like! In just 15 minutes, you'll have sweet and tender corn to serve with any of your favorite main course dishes. Simply dress them up with butter, salt, and pepper, and you'll have a tasty side dish that even kids will enjoy!
Easy Steamed Corn On The Cob Recipe
Although I do love the charred and smoky taste of smoked corn-on-the-cob (or grilled corn-on-the-cob), many times, the convenience of steaming it wins me over, especially if I'm in a hurry! It only takes a few minutes to prepare and comes out tender and flavorful every time.
This simple recipe uses a steamer basket, stockpot, and water to perfectly cook your corn on the cob in a practically hands-off way. Simply slather them with butter and seasoning after steaming for a crowd-pleasing side dish that you can serve with just about anything!
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🥘 Steamed Corn On The Cob Ingredients
All you need is some fresh corn and water to steam it. Although I love using the classic combination of butter, salt, and pepper, feel free to dress it up however you'd like.
- Corn - 4 ears of corn, shucked.
- Water - Enough water to cover 1 inch in your stockpot.
- Butter - 2 tablespoons of butter, my cowboy butter, or use a butter substitute.
- Salt & Pepper - Salt & pepper, to taste. Or you can use your favorite seasoning.
*Be sure to see the free printable recipe card below for ingredients, exact amounts & instructions with tips!*
🔪 How To Make Steamed Corn On The Cob
When it comes to preparing a delicious corn-on-the-cob side dish, it doesn't get much simpler than this! Take out a stockpot (6-quart), steamer basket, silicone kitchen tongs, corn-on-the-cob holders, and corn-on-the-cob baskets to begin.
This recipe will make 4 servings if using the whole ear of corn. You can always scale up if you work in batches.
- Prepare corn. Shuck your 4 ears of corn and set them aside. The ears of corn can be cut in half if desired or left whole. *Cutting the corn in halves works best for setting them on end while steaming.
- Add water to a pot. Add enough water to a large pot to cover the bottom with about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water. Place a steamer basket or a large plate that fits within the pot (heat-safe dish) over the water.
- Add corn. Place the corn into your pot, whole or halved. Whole corn can be laid flat or stood upright (depending on how much corn you have and your pot), but I like to stand halved corn on the cob upright.
- Boil. Cover the pot, then bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. As it starts to boil, reduce the heat to keep the water at a low boil and cook for 12-15 minutes without removing the cover.
- Transfer corn. Remove the corn from your pot with tongs. Transfer to a plate and cover with aluminum foil to serve later or serve immediately.
- Serve. Serve with 2 tablespoons of butter, then season with salt & pepper (or your favorite seasonings) to taste.
🍴 What To Serve Steamed Corn On The Cob With
Corn-on-the-cob is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with many different proteins and side dishes! I like to serve it with my grilled T-bone steak and smoked gouda mac & cheese for a well-rounded meal.
Check out all of my tasty mains, sides, and more that are perfect for serving with steamed corn on the cob! Enjoy!
💭 Angela's Tips & Recipe Notes
- Keep an eye on your water level so that it doesn't a) boil over and b) dry out.
- If you choose to steam frozen corn, you'll need to add about 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.
- Once your corn is fully cooked, you can allow it to rest for a few minutes so that it's easier to handle.
- Aside from the classic butter, salt, and pepper, you could add other flavors or seasonings like chili powder, lime, herbs, cheese, or a tasty spice rub!
🥡 Storing & Reheating
Allow your corn to cool completely, then wrap each ear with aluminum foil. Transfer your leftovers to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and enjoy within 3-5 days.
Freezing Corn On The Cob
Let your corn cool down all the way, then wrap each corn on the cob with plastic cling wrap. Store your corn in an airtight freezer container or in a heavy-duty resealable bag. If using a plastic bag, press out any excess air out then write the date on the bag. Freeze for up to 6 months.
Reheating Corn On The Cob
Reheat your leftover corn in a microwave covered with a dampened paper towel for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a steamer basket over simmering water until it is tender and warm to your liking.
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❓ Recipe FAQs
No, I highly recommend that you don't add salt to your water while you are steaming your corn. Salt will cause your corn-on-the-cob to harden, resulting in a tough texture. It's best to always add it after they are done cooking as a seasoning with ground pepper!
Your corn-on-the-cob is done steaming when it turns a bright yellow in color, and the kernels are nice and plump. You can always check their doneness by piercing them with a fork. If they are tender, then you are ready to season and serve.
Absolutely! If you have some frozen corn-on-the-top that is taking up room in your freezer, you use it in place of fresh corn! Keep in mind that you will need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time, typically 3 to 5.
😋 More Tasty Side Dish Recipes
- Paula Deen's Mac and Cheese - This deliciously cheesy mac and cheese recipe only requires a few simple ingredients to make!
- Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread - A copycat recipe that results in the most tender and delicious bread ever!
- Lobster Salad - A classic seafood dish that combines sweet lobster meat with crunchy celery and a creamy dressing!
- Broccoli Cauliflower Soup - When you're in the mood for a comforting and satisfying soup, this recipe won't disappoint!
- Caesar Salad - A simple side salad recipe that's full of the classic ingredients we all love!
- Pilau Rice - An easy side dish that pairs well with your favorite beef, chicken, lamb, and pork dishes!
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📖 Recipe Card
Steamed Corn On The Cob
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn (shucked)
- water (enough to cover 1-inches in your pot)
- 2 tablespoon butter
- each, salt & pepper (to taste)
(Note: 2x or 3x only changes the ingredient list)
Instructions
- Shuck your 4 ears corn and set them aside. The ears of corn can be cut in half if desired, or left whole. *Cutting the corn in halves works best for setting them on end while steaming.
- Add enough water to a large pot to cover the bottom with about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water. Place a steamer basket or a large plate that fits within the pot (heat-safe dish) over the water.
- Place the corn into your pot, whole or halved. Whole corn can be laid flat or stood upright (depending on how much corn you have and your pot), but I like to stand halved corn on the cob upright.
- Cover the pot, then bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. As it starts to boil, reduce the heat to keep the water at a low boil and cook for 12-15 minutes without removing the cover.
- Remove the corn from your pot with tongs. Transfer to a plate and cover with aluminum foil to serve later or serve immediately.
- Serve with 2 tablespoon butter then season with each, salt & pepper (or your favorite seasonings) to taste.
Notes
- Keep an eye on your water level so that it doesn't a) boil over and b) dry out.
- If you choose to steam frozen corn, you'll need to add about 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.
- Once your corn is fully cooked, you can allow it to rest for a few minutes so that it's easier to handle.
- Aside from the classic butter, salt, and pepper, you could add other flavors or seasonings like chili powder, lime, herbs, cheese, or a tasty spice rub!
- To store: Allow your corn to completely cool, then wrap each ear with aluminum foil. Transfer your leftovers to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and enjoy within 3-5 days.
- To freeze: Let your corn cool down all the way, then wrap each corn on the cob with plastic cling wrap. Store your corn in an airtight freezer container or in a heavy-duty resealable bag. If using a plastic bag, press out any excess air out then write the date on the bag. Freeze for up to 6 months.
- To reheat: Reheat your leftover corn in a microwave covered with a dampened paper towel for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a steamer basket over simmering water until it is tender and warm to your liking.
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