Corn On The Cob Baked In The Oven
When it’s summertime in the United States, nothing quite beats the taste of fresh corn on the cob. Whether you’re enjoying it at a BBQ or grilling it up on your own, there’s something about the crispness and sweetness of corn that just screams “summer”. But have you ever thought of baking your corn on the cob in the oven? This method is a popular alternative to grilling and boiling, and it’s a great way to switch things up while still enjoying all of the delicious flavors of fresh corn. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of how to make corn on the cob baked in the oven, including some tips and tricks to make sure your corn comes out perfectly every time.
Why Bake Corn on the Cob in the Oven?
If you’re used to grilling or boiling your corn on the cob, you might be wondering what the benefits of baking it in the oven are. One of the biggest advantages is that it’s a hands-off cooking method. Unlike grilling, which requires you to keep a close eye on your corn and rotate it frequently, and boiling, which can leave your corn waterlogged and lacking flavor, baking your corn on the cob in the oven is simple: just place it in the oven and let it cook. Plus, because you’re baking your corn in its husk, it will retain its natural moisture, leading to tender, juicy corn that’s bursting with flavor.
How to Bake Corn on the Cob in the Oven
Now that you know why baking your corn on the cob in the oven is a great option, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to do it. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh corn on the cob, still in the husk
- Butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Tin foil
- Baking sheet
Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Peel back the husk of your corn, but don’t remove it completely. You want to keep the husk attached at the base so that it forms a sort of “pocket” around the corn.
- Remove the silk from the corn and discard it.
- Generously butter or oil the corn, then sprinkle it with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pull the husk back up around the corn, and wrap the husks tightly with tin foil. Make sure there are no gaps or holes.
- Place the wrapped corn on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the corn is tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove the husk and enjoy!
That’s it – it’s really that simple! One of the great things about this method is that you can easily adjust the cooking time to suit your tastes. If you like your corn really tender and juicy, you can leave it in the oven for a few extra minutes. If you prefer your corn with a bit more bite, you can take it out a bit earlier. Just make sure that the corn is cooked all the way through and that the kernels are tender before eating.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Oven-Baked Corn on the Cob
If you want to take your oven-baked corn on the cob to the next level, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Choose fresh, high-quality corn. The fresher the corn, the better it will taste.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. In addition to butter, salt, and pepper, you can try adding things like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to your corn.
- If you’re cooking multiple ears of corn, make sure they’re all the same size so that they cook evenly. If you have some ears that are much larger or smaller than others, you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- If you’re short on time, you can also cook your corn in the microwave. Just microwave it for 3-4 minutes per ear, still in its husk, and then let it sit for a few minutes to steam. This method won’t give you the same crispy, charred flavor as grilling or oven-baking, but it’s a convenient option if you’re in a hurry.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try adding different toppings to your corn. Some popular options include crumbled feta cheese, chili powder, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
The Bottom Line
Baking corn on the cob in the oven is a delicious alternative to grilling or boiling and is a great way to switch things up during the summer months. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can enjoy sweet, tender, perfectly cooked corn that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to elevate your own corn game, this recipe is a must-try.