How Long to Cook Corn on the Cob
Fresh ears of corn, husked or unhusked.
The Short Answer
In the oven at 400°F, corn on the cob takes 25–30 minutes. Scroll down for all cooking methods, detailed instructions, and tips from the Professor.
Cooking Methods
🔥 Oven
Temperature: 400°F
Time: 25–30 minutes
Wrap individual ears in foil with butter. Place directly on oven rack.
🔥 Grill
Temperature: 400°F
Time: 10–15 minutes
Husked, brushed with butter or oil. Turn every 3-4 minutes. Can also grill in the husk for a steamed effect (15-20 min).
🍳 Stovetop
Time: 4–6 minutes
Bring water to a boil. Add husked corn. Return to boil and cook 4-6 minutes. Do not add salt; it toughens the kernels.
⚡ Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker
Pressure: High
Time: 2–3 minutes
Release: Quick release
Fresh corn: 2-3 minutes is all it takes. Place on trivet with 1 cup water. Do not overcook or kernels become mushy. This is one of the fastest Instant Pot recipes.
The old advice to boil corn for 10-15 minutes produces rubbery corn. Fresh corn only needs 4-6 minutes. It is already edible raw.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Salt can toughen the kernels. Add salt and butter after cooking.
The Bottom Line
Corn on the Cob is straightforward to cook when you know the time and temperature. Use the method that fits your equipment and schedule, and always let the food rest before cutting or serving. Resting allows juices to redistribute and carryover cooking to finish the job.
Source: Culinary reference | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology