How to Reheat Corn on the Cob

A barbecue just isnt complete without corn on the cob when cooked to perfection, its naturally sweet flavor is like a taste of summer. So its extra disappointing when you go to reheat any leftovers and end up with wrinkly kernels and a mushy texture. To the rescue: We asked three top chefs how

A barbecue just isn’t complete without corn on the cob — when cooked to perfection, its naturally sweet flavor is like a taste of summer. So it’s extra disappointing when you go to reheat any leftovers and end up with wrinkly kernels and a mushy texture. To the rescue: We asked three top chefs how they reheat corn on the cob so it’s as delicious as when it was first cooked. So whether you’re wondering how to reheat steamed or grilled corn on the cob, we’ve got you covered.

How to reheat corn on the cob in boiling water

When it comes to reheating corn on the cob, celebrity chef Robert Irvine of Robert Irvine’s Public House at Tropicana Las Vegas says his favorite way is in boiling water. That’s because it allows you to keep your eyes on the corn and move it around to see if it’s ready. Here, he shares his steps for reheating corn on the cob in boiling water:

  • Boil a pot of water.
  • Add the corn to water.
  • Boil the corn until it is heated through. Since it’s precooked, you onely need to dip it in the water for about one to two minutes. 
  • Take the corn out of the pot and add butter and salt for additional flavor. 

    • How to reheat corn on the cob in the oven

    HelloFresh chef Claudia Sidoti prefers to reheat her corn on the cob in the oven since the dry heat helps preserve the fresh flavor. Below, she explains how with five easy steps that take less than 10 minutes:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Add butter, a teaspoon of water and some salt and pepper to the corn on the cob.
  • Wrap the corn in aluminum foil. 
  • Place the corn on the cob in the oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. 
  • Remove and enjoy. 

    • How to reheat corn on the cob in the microwave

    When it comes to knowing how to reheat corn on the cob in the microwave, Irvine says it’s important do so in short increments to help prevent the kernels from getting overheated and bursting. Here, he breaks down the steps for how to reheat corn on the cob in the microwave: 

  • Place the corn on a microwave-safe dish.
  • Cover the corn with either a damp towel or plastic wrap. 
  • Set the timer for 10- to 20-second bursts.
  • Repeat bursts until the corn is warm. 

    • Sidoti adds that knowing how long to reheat corn on the cob in the microwave comes down to the power you use. She recommends setting your microwave at 50% and heating the corn for approximately two minutes total. If you want a little extra flavor, lightly brush the corn with a dab of butter at each burst.  

    Bonus tips for heating up corn on the cob

    If your cooked corn is coming right from the freezer, you might want to know how to reheat frozen corn on the cob. Here, Sidoti shares these six simple steps that will turn your frozen corn into a delicious meal: 

  • Place corn in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  • Set the stovetop to high heat and cook until the water starts to boil.
  • Cover the pot and reduce heat to low.
  • Cook for about five to eight minutes.
  • Remove the corn from the hot water and place on a plate. 
  • Season with salt, pepper and butter to taste. 

    • When time is an issue, corn off the cob is likely the easiest way to get your veggies on the table fast. Both Sidoti and Irvine agree that the best way to reheat corn off the cob is to heat it up in a skillet. “Sautéing or stir-frying your corn is the best way to keep all the natural flavors in it,” Sidoti says. Here are the steps Irvine recommends if you want to know how to reheat corn off the cob.

  • Heat up a nonstick pan on medium heat.
  • Melt a little butter in the pan.
  • Add the corn and your desired seasonings, and cook until heated through (should only take a few minutes).

    • How to make reheated corn more flavorful

    Once warmed, reheated corn on the cob is delicious to enjoy as is, but Jessica Clark, founder and gluten-free eating expert at GlutenFreeSupper.com, suggests adding other ingredients to make it extra flavorful. “Reheating corn on the cob can bring back its delectable qualities, and with a few enhancements, you can elevate its taste to a whole new level,” she says.

    Below, she shares four ways to boost the flavor of reheated corn on the cob.

    • Seasonings: Sprinkle your reheated corn with a variety of seasonings. You can try classic combinations like salt and pepper or experiment with spices such as chili powder, paprika or garlic powder. Consider using a flavored salt or a sprinkle of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
    • Herb butter: Prepare an herb-infused butter by mixing softened butter with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley or chives. After reheating the corn, brush it generously with the herb butter. The heat from the corn will melt the butter, creating a flavorful coating.
    • Cheese and spreads: Add a tasty twist by spreading a layer of mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt on the reheated corn. Then sprinkle grated cheese like Parmesan, cheddar or cotija (a type of Mexican cheese) on top. For a zesty kick, squeeze some lime juice over the cheese and enjoy.
    • Spicy sauces: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, drizzle your reheated corn with hot sauce or a spicy aioli. You can also try brushing the corn with a mixture of melted butter and your favorite hot sauce before reheating it.

    Thanks to these helpful tips, you’ll savor corn on the cob at its peak all summer long. Looking for more tips on heating up BBQ leftovers so you can nosh on them? Check out our stories on how to reheat ribs and how to reheat a burger!

    Want more on how to shuck and cook corn on the cob? Check out these stories:

    This Simple Hack Will Make Shucking Fresh Corn Super Easy and Mess-Free

    How to Grill Corn on the Cob So the Kernels Are Juicy, Tender, and Perfectly Charred

    11 Corn on the Cob Recipes to Add Some WOW Factor to Your Barbecue

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