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A perfectly cooked ear of corn on the cob with melting butter and salt after being cooked in the microwave.
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How to Cook Corn in the Microwave

The fastest way to cook fresh corn on the cob - ready in just 5 minutes with perfect results every time.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian, Mexican
Prep Time 1 minute
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 person

Ingredients

Fresh corn on the cob (with husk on)

Butter (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Leave the husk and silk on the corn. Don't remove anything. Just rinse the outside if it's dirty.

    Step 2: Microwave

      Place corn in the microwave. Cook on high power:

        1 ear: 3-4 minutes

          2 ears: 6-7 minutes

            3-4 ears: 8-10 minutes

              Step 3: Let It Rest

                After microwaving, let the corn sit for 2 minutes. This finishing step helps it cook evenly and prevents burns.

                  Step 4: Remove the Husk

                    Cut off the bottom stem end (about 1 inch). Grab the top silky part and pull down. The husk and silk should slide right off together.

                      Step 5: Season and Serve

                        Add butter, salt, and pepper while the corn is hot. Serve immediately.

                        • Two-ears-of-cooked-corn-on-the-cob-on-a-white-plate-one-seasoned-with-butter-and-the-other-with-garlic-parmesan.

                        Notes

                        For Shucked Corn: Wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 3-5 minutes per ear.
                        Microwave Power: Cooking times work for 1000-1200 watt microwaves. Add 30-60 seconds for less powerful models.
                        Freshness Matters: Use the freshest corn possible for the sweetest flavor. Look for bright green husks and firm kernels.
                        Testing Doneness: Press a kernel with your fingernail. If milky liquid comes out, it's done.

                        Nutrition (Per Ear)

                        Approximate values for plain corn without butter
                        • Calories: 90
                        • Carbohydrates: 19g
                        • Fiber: 2g
                        • Protein: 3g
                        • Fat: 1g
                        • Sugar: 6g

                        Flavor Variations

                        Mexican Street Corn: Add mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice
                        Garlic Parmesan: Mix melted butter with minced garlic and parmesan cheese
                        Herb Butter: Combine softened butter with fresh herbs and lemon juice
                        Spicy: Sprinkle with cayenne pepper and paprika along with butter
                        Storage: Keep cooked corn in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel.