How to Microwave Corn on the Cob (3 Easy Methods)
Microwaving corn on the cob is one of the fastest and easiest ways to enjoy sweet, juicy corn. Whether you have fresh corn with the husk, husk removed, or even want to steam it with a damp towel, these simple methods give you perfectly cooked corn in minutes.
Below are three foolproof ways to microwave corn on the cob — with husk, without husk, and wrapped in a damp cloth. Choose the method that fits what you have on hand.
1. How to Microwave Corn on the Cob (Without Husk)
This method uses a damp paper towel to create steam, giving you tender corn every time.
You’ll Need
- 1 ear of corn, husk removed
- 1 paper towel
- Microwave-safe plate
Instructions
- Remove any remaining silks from the ear of corn.
- Wet a paper towel, then wring it out so it’s damp—but not dripping.
- Wrap the ear of corn in the damp towel and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high for about 5 minutes, or until the corn is tender.
- Microwave wattages vary, so you may need slightly more or less time.
- Carefully remove the paper towel (it will be very hot!) and serve.
Pro Tip:
If you want to cook multiple ears at once, add 2 extra minutes per ear.
2. How to Microwave Corn on the Cob With the Husk On
This is one of the easiest methods — the husk naturally traps steam and cooks the corn perfectly.
Instructions
- Place the ear of corn (husk and all) in the microwave.
- Microwave on high for 4 minutes.
- Using oven mitts, carefully remove the hot corn.
- Cut off the stem end, removing one row of kernels along with it.
- Squeeze from the top — the corn will slide right out, silk-free.
Notes
- Some microwaves may require more or less time — start with 4 minutes and adjust as needed.
- If cooking more than one ear, add 2 minutes per extra ear.
3. How to Microwave Corn Without Husk (Cloth Steaming Method)
If you don’t have paper towels, this method works just as well using a damp cloth.
Instructions
- Fill a bowl with cold water and soak two clean kitchen cloths.
- Wring out the cloths so they stay damp but not dripping.
- Wrap the corn in one of the damp cloths.
- Place the wrapped corn in a microwave-safe dish.
- Microwave on high for 5 minutes.
- Carefully remove the dish from the microwave — the steam will be hot.
- Unwrap the corn and season with butter, salt, and pepper.
Result:
Juicy, perfectly steamed corn without needing the husk.
Serving Suggestions
- Butter + salt + pepper (classic)
- Chili powder + lime + cotija cheese
- Garlic butter + parsley
- Smoked paprika + salted butter
Final Tips
- Every microwave heats differently — always start with less time and add more if needed.
- Corn is best served immediately while it’s warm and juicy.
- For extra flavor, brush the corn with melted butter right before serving.
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How to Microwave Corn on the Cob (The Complete Guide)
Microwaving corn on the cob is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to enjoy fresh, sweet corn — especially when you’re short on time. Whether you have corn with the husk still on, corn that has already been cleaned, or corn without the husk at all, the microwave can cook it perfectly in just a few minutes.
In this guide, you’ll learn three fully detailed, step-by-step methods to microwave corn on the cob. Each method includes tips, timing suggestions, safety notes, and serving ideas to help you get juicy, tender corn every single time.
⭐ Why Use the Microwave for Corn on the Cob?
Most people think boiling or grilling is the only way to cook corn, but the microwave has several advantages:
- It’s fast: Fresh corn cooks in just 4–6 minutes.
- It preserves sweetness: Steaming in the microwave keeps kernels juicy and flavorful.
- Minimal cleanup: No pots, pans, or boiling water required.
- Great for small batches: Perfect for 1–4 ears at a time.
- Consistent results: The corn steams evenly inside the husk or towel.
Method 1: Microwave Corn on the Cob Without the Husk (Paper Towel Method)
If your corn has already been cleaned and husked, this is the easiest and most reliable method. A damp paper towel creates steam, giving you perfectly tender corn.
What You’ll Need
- 1–4 ears of corn, husk removed
- Paper towels
- Water
- Microwave-safe plate
- Oven mitts
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Corn
Remove any leftover silk strands from the ear of corn. You can run your hand over the kernels or rinse lightly under water if needed.
2. Damp the Paper Towel
Wet a paper towel thoroughly, then wring it out so it stays damp—not dripping.
This moisture is important because it creates steam inside the microwave.
3. Wrap the Corn
Wrap the damp towel tightly around the corn. Ensure the entire ear is covered so the steam stays inside during cooking.
4. Microwave the Corn
Place the wrapped corn on a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave on high for about 5 minutes for one ear.
- Smaller microwaves may require an extra minute
- Powerful microwaves may cook it faster
5. Check for Tenderness
Using oven mitts, carefully remove the hot corn from the microwave.
Peel back the paper towel and poke a kernel with a fork — it should be plump, shiny, and tender.
6. Serve While Hot
Season your corn with butter, salt, pepper, or any toppings you like.
Cooking Multiple Ears
If you want to cook more than one ear at a time:
- 2 ears → 7 minutes
- 3 ears → 9 minutes
- 4 ears → 11 minutes
Add about 2 minutes per ear, depending on microwave size.
Method 2: Microwave Corn on the Cob With the Husk On
Cooking corn with the husk still attached is truly foolproof. The husk acts like a natural steamer, keeping the corn moist and flavorful.
What You’ll Need
- 1–4 ears of corn with husks
- Microwave-safe plate
- Sharp knife
- Oven mitts
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the Corn in the Microwave
Do not remove the husk.
Place the whole ear directly onto a microwave-safe plate.
2. Microwave on High
For one ear, microwave on high for 4 minutes.
The husk will trap steam inside, cooking the corn evenly.
3. Carefully Remove the Corn
The ear will be extremely hot — use oven mitts or a kitchen towel.
Place it on a cutting board.
4. Cut Off the Stem End
Using a sharp knife, cut through the bottom end of the corn.
Remove a row or two of kernels along with the stem — this opens the husk.
5. Squeeze Out the Corn
Hold the top of the husk and firmly squeeze downward.
The corn will slide out cleanly, silk-free, and fully cooked.
Cooking Multiple Ears
- 2 ears → 6–7 minutes
- 3 ears → 8–9 minutes
- 4 ears → 10–11 minutes
Adjust based on your microwave wattage.
Method 3: Microwave Corn on the Cob Without Husk (Cloth Steaming Method)
If you don’t want to use paper towels — or you want a reusable, eco-friendly option — you can steam corn using damp kitchen cloths.
What You’ll Need
- 1–4 ears of corn, husk removed
- 2 clean kitchen towels
- Bowl of cold water
- Microwave-safe dish
- Oven mitts
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Towels
Soak two clean towels in cold water.
Wring them out so they remain damp but not dripping.
2. Wrap the Corn in the Damp Cloth
Lay one damp towel flat, place the corn on top, and wrap it tightly.
The towel acts like the husk by trapping moisture inside.
3. Place in Microwave-Safe Dish
Put the wrapped corn into a dish. This helps catch any water droplets.
4. Microwave on High
Cook for 5 minutes for one ear.
The damp towel will steam the corn and keep the kernels juicy.
5. Unwrap Carefully
Use oven mitts — the steam will be very hot.
Open the towel away from your face.
6. Season and Serve
Add butter, salt, pepper, paprika, or any of your favorite toppings.
⭐ How to Tell When Corn Is Done
Your corn is perfectly cooked when:
- The kernels are bright yellow
- They look shiny and plump
- A fork easily pierces the kernels
- They smell naturally sweet
If the kernels still feel firm, microwave for an additional 30–60 seconds.
⭐ Seasoning Ideas (Make It Delicious!)
Classic
- Butter
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
Mexican-Style
- Mayo + lime juice
- Cotija cheese
- Chili powder
- Cilantro
Garlic Butter
- Melted butter
- Minced garlic
- Parsley
Smoky Style
- Smoked paprika
- Butter
- A pinch of cayenne
⭐ Helpful Tips
- Always handle hot corn with oven mitts — steam burns happen quickly.
- Start with less time and add more if needed. Microwaves vary.
- For extra flavor, brush the corn with melted butter right after cooking.
- Leftover corn can be removed from the cob and used for salads, soups, and dips.
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