Jamie's Sweet and Easy Corn on the Cob

4.8
(524)

Corn on the cob is cooked in boiled water with a little sugar and lemon juice for the sweetest, tastiest corn! My mother-in-law gave me this easy recipe.

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Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
5 mins
Additional Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Servings:
6

You can’t go wrong with boiled corn on the cob — and this top-rated recipe is proof of that!

How to Cook Corn on the Cob

You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:

How Long to Boil Corn on the Cob

Six ears of corn on the cob should be perfectly boiled after about 10 minutes in the covered pot. It’s important to note that, when you follow this recipe, you’ll place the corn in the boiling water, cover the pot, and turn off the heat. The heat should not be on the entire time. 

When Is Corn on the Cob Done Boiling? 

You’ll know the corn on the cob is done boiling when the kernels are bright yellow and tender. 

How to Boil Corn on the Cob

Simply bring the water (with sugar and lemon juice) to a boil, add the corn, cover, turn off the heat, and cook for about 10 minutes. That’s it! Find the full, step-by-step recipe below with detailed instructions. 

a close-up view of three corn on the cobs
Rae

What to Serve With Corn on the Cob

Boiled corn on the cob pairs perfectly with all your standard summer fare. In need of some serving inspiration? Explore these mouthwatering recipe collections to learn what goes with corn on the cob: 

How to Store Corn on the Cob

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Can You Freeze Corn on the Cob?

It’s best to freeze the corn on the cob before you boil it. For detailed freezing and thawing instructions, check out our step-by-step How to Freeze Corn on the Cob guide.

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise

“Outstanding,” raves one Allrecipes community member. “From now on, this is how I will be making corn on the cob... you can't taste the lemon juice or the sugar, but it adds a subtle sweetness and the corn doesn't get overcooked and chewy.”

“I've made this recipe at least 10 times,” says Rick ab2006. “It really is perfect as written. If you have more than a few ears, bring the water back up to a slight boil. Turn off heat, lid on for 10 minutes. Drain and let it rest with the lid on until you want to eat. It holds well.”

“I've made this at least 50 times now,” according to Amber Tan. “It's my go to recipe for corn on the cob, and it's never failed me! I make it as written and put butter and salt over the top of the corn when done.”

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons white sugar

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 6 ears corn on the cob, husks and silk removed

Directions

  1. Fill a large pot about 3/4 full of water and bring to a boil. Stir in sugar and lemon juice until sugar is dissolved.

  2. Gently place ears of corn into boiling water, cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let corn cook in the hot water until tender, about 10 minutes.

    a close-up view of three corn on the cobs
    Rae

Editor's Note:

Nutrition data for this recipe includes the full amount of sugar. The actual amount of sugar consumed will vary.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

94 Calories
1g Fat
22g Carbs
3g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 94
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 1g 1%
Saturated Fat 0g 1%
Sodium 14mg 1%
Total Carbohydrate 22g 8%
Dietary Fiber 2g 9%
Total Sugars 7g
Protein 3g 6%
Vitamin C 7mg 8%
Calcium 2mg 0%
Iron 1mg 3%
Potassium 246mg 5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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