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Perfect Old-Fashioned Corn on the Cob with Butter

old-fashioned corn on the cob with butter - featured image

A simple and classic recipe for sweet summer corn on the cob boiled to perfection and slathered with butter and a pinch of salt. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • Optional: freshly ground black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar (to add to boiling water)
  • Optional dairy-free substitute: plant-based spread like Earth Balance
  • Optional: squeeze of fresh lime juice

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn by peeling back the green leaves and removing the silky threads. Rinse the ears under cold water to remove any lingering silk. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the corn, approximately 4 to 6 quarts. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. (10 minutes)
  3. Carefully place the ears of corn into the boiling water using tongs. Reduce heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil.
  4. Boil the corn for 7-10 minutes. Check at 7 minutes to avoid overcooking. The kernels should be bright yellow and tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Remove the corn with tongs and let excess water drip off. While still hot, spread softened butter evenly over each ear. Sprinkle with salt to taste. (2-3 minutes)
  6. Serve immediately on warm plates. Optionally, add a sprinkle of black pepper or smoked paprika.

Notes

Use unsalted butter and salt after buttering for better flavor control. Adding a teaspoon of sugar to the boiling water enhances natural sweetness. Avoid piercing kernels while cooking to retain juices. Softened butter spreads and melts better. For a twist, try herb butter or grilled corn after boiling.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn on the cob, buttered corn, summer recipe, easy corn recipe, boiled corn, classic corn, side dish, quick recipe