How long to cook corn on the cob

As the summer sun peaks and backyard barbecues get into full swing, many home cooks find themselves wondering how to perfectly prepare one of the season’s star attractions: corn on the cob. This tender, sweet treat brings a burst of flavor to any meal, but the cooking time can vary based on preparation methods. Whether you’re boiling, grilling, or steaming, achieving that ideal tender crisp without losing the corn’s natural sweetness is the goal. If you’ve ever stared at a pot of water or a sizzling grill, uncertain of when to take those golden cobs off the heat, you’re not alone.

Cooking corn on the cob typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes when boiling, approximately 10 to 15 minutes when steaming, or 15 to 20 minutes when grilling.

When boiling corn on the cob, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, then add the husked cobs. The cooking process usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes for fresh corn, but you should check for doneness by piercing a kernel–if it releases a milky liquid, it’s ready! For steaming, place the corn in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover. It generally requires about 10 to 15 minutes until tender. If you’re opting for the grill, preheat it to medium-high heat, and grill the corn in its husks or wrapped in foil for around 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally. Regardless of the method, keeping an eye on the timer will help ensure your corn remains sweet and delicious, ready to be slathered in butter and enjoyed!