Boiled corn on the cob doesn't have to be plain! This Flavorful Boiled Corn on the Cob is sweet, tender, and infused with flavor from butter, milk, and some tasty aromatics. It’s a simple method that makes your corn more flavorful and tender than ever.
Boiled Corn Recipe
Corn on the cob is pretty much mandatory at most backyard cookouts, BBQs, or summer potlucks. This easy corn on the cob recipe is a must-have side dish for us in the summer! Even weeknight dinners.
I love to make boiled corn on the cob with milk, sugar, salt, and often times, like in this recipe, aromatics. It really enhances the corn's natural sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Boiled Corn Recipe
• Very Flavorful – The corn absorbs the delicious blend of garlic, butter, and cream.
• Easy to Make – Just a few simple ingredients and one pot!
• Perfect for Summer Meals – Great for BBQs, cookouts, or as a side for grilled meats.
• Versatile – Customize it with herbs, spices, or different dairy options.
• Bonus — The cooking liquid can be reused to add flavor to soups and chowders!
If you prefer a grilled style corn with some char on it, try my Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob. It's very good, and easy to make!
Flavorful Boiled Corn on the Cob tastes sweet, and a little savory, with a hint of garlic. If you want the garlic flavor stronger, use the full amount of 7 cloves.
Ingredients to Make the Best Boiled Corn on the Cob
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need. Exact amounts are listed in the recipe card below.
- Corn on the Cob – Fresh ears, husked and cleaned.
- Water – The base of your cooking liquid.
- Garlic – Chopped, for a subtle savory aroma.
- Salt and Pepper – Seasonings to balance the sweetness.
- Half and Half – Adds richness and tenderness to the corn.
- Butter – For flavor and a silky finish.
- Sugar – Enhances the corn’s natural sweetness.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor and balances the richness.
- Fresh Herbs – Optional garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
Variations of Flavorful Boiled Corn on the Cob
• Add Herbs to the Boil – Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf.
• Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeño to the pot. Or omit the salt and use a tablespoon or more of Creole seasoning.
• Try Different Dairy – You can use whole milk or a combo of cream and water if you don’t have half and half.
• Make it Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk, or just omit the half and half and add more water or use broth.
How to Boil Corn on the Cob with Flavor
Simmer the Aromatics
• In a large pot, bring the water, garlic, salt, and pepper to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 6–8 minutes to infuse the water.
• Then stir in the sugar to dissolve it.
Add the Dairy and Flavorings
• Squeeze in the lemon juice and sliced butter.
• Stir in the half and half. Bring back to a low boil.
Cook the Corn on the Cob
• Add the corn to the pot. Once boiling again, cook for 6–8 minutes, turning over once if needed, until the corn is tender.
Serve and Enjoy
• Use tongs to remove the corn. Serve hot with extra butter, salt, and fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Success
Don’t skip simmering the garlic – Letting the garlic and seasonings infuse the water really boosts the final flavor.
Use fresh corn – The fresher the corn, the sweeter and juicier the results.
Add butter while corn is hot – Corn absorbs flavor best when it’s warm.
What to Serve With Boiled Corn on the Cob
This flavorful corn goes well with just about any summer meal! Try it with:
• Chicken or Ribs
• Pulled pork sandwiches
• BBQ baked beans or coleslaw
• Burgers or hot dogs
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Leftover corn can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a little extra butter, or wrap in foil and heat in a 300°F oven until warmed through. To be honest, I'll eat it cold, too!
Freezing Tip: Corn kernels can be cut off the cob and frozen in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
More Vegetable Side Dish Recipes
Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob
Instant Pot Cabbage Side Dish
Easy Sautéed Green Beans
Cheesy Creamed Spinach
Air Fryer Carrots
If you make this Flavorful Boiled Corn on the Cob recipe, let me know! Just leave a comment below with a star rating. I'd love to hear from you!
- 3 cups Water
- 4-7 cloves Garlic, rough chopped
- 1 Tablespoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 3 cups Half and Half
- 1 stick Butter sliced (plus more for serving)
- ¼ cup Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 6–8 Ears of Corn, husked
- Chopped Parsley or Chives
- Extra butter, if desired
-
In a large pot, add the water, chopped garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let it simmer for 6–8 minutes to infuse the water with flavor.
-
Stir in the half and half, butter, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
-
Add the corn. Once it returns to a boil, cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the corn is tender.
-
Remove the corn with tongs and serve hot, garnished with additional butter, parsley, or chives. Season with more salt if needed.
Save the Liquid!
It’s flavorful and perfect for using in corn chowder, clam chowder, or even a creamy potato soup.
Nutrition (per ear, approx.):
Calories: 180 | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 320mg | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Protein: 3g
Trombley Sigrid
Sounds good but I’m surprised you didn’t use a pressure cooker. Pressure cookers are magic for corn on the cob.
Sandy
I do sometimes. I have two great Instant Pot corn on the cob recipes: Instant Pot Corn on the Cob and Instant Pot Milk and Honey Corn on the Cob. I have found that many people are not Instant Pot users, and wanted to provide a recipe they could make without one!