Corn on the cob is a beloved summer classic. With its sweet, juicy kernels that capture the essence of warm, sunny days and backyard barbecues, it’s easy to see why! But, what what to do with leftovers? There are plenty of options, and it all starts with learning How to Reheat Corn on the Cob!

How to Reheat Corn on the Cob

Fortunately, reheating this delicious treat is easy and can recapture its original flavor and tenderness. In this guide, I’m going to show you how to reheat corn on the cob with 5 different methods.

Whether you want to use your oven or are hoping for some advice on how to reheat corn on the cob in the microwave, I’ve got you covered! All of my methods will give life back to your corn so you can enjoy it as is or use it in a different recipe. Plus, I’ll share my thoughts on the best way to reheat corn on the cob.

Reheating is a bit of art form! Learn how to master it below.

Need more Reheating Tips? Don’t miss my guides on HOW TO REHEAT PORK CHOPS IN AIR FRYER, REHEATING FISH IN AIR FRYER, REHEAT JALAPENO POPPERS IN AIR FRYER, REHEATING PANDA EXPRESS LEFTOVERS IN AIR FRYER, and HOW TO REHEAT TATER TOTS!

Reasons to Reheat Corn on the Cob

• Reduces food waste
• Can use it in a variety of other recipes
• Makes the most out of leftovers
• With 5 methods, there’s no reason not to try!

The Best Way to Reheat Corn on the Cob

When it comes to reheating corn on the cob, there are several methods to choose from, each with its own advantages. Whether you have a large quantity to reheat for a gathering, just one or two cobs for a quick snack, or you’re looking to add some extra flavor with a hint of char, there’s a method that suits your needs.

It’s hard to say which is the best way to reheat corn on the cob. Each method is great for different situations:

• Oven: If you want to reheat a substantial amount of corn, the oven method is ideal and ensures even heating for a crowd.
• Stove: You can quickly reheat corn on the stove, but keep in mind that it may lose some of its original flavoring.
• Microwave: Perfect if you need a quick solution for one or two cobs.
• Air Fryer: Adds a delightful crispiness to your corn.
• Broiler: Provides a charred, flavorful twist to your reheated corn on the cob.

How to Store Corn on the Cob

Learning how to reheat corn on the cob starts with learning how to store leftover corn correctly in the first place!

• Leave the Husks On: Store corn on the cob with the corn husks intact. The husks act as a natural barrier to help keep the corn moist and protected from drying out.
• Keep it Cool: Place the corn on the cob in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. The cool and slightly humid environment of the crisper helps preserve its quality.
• Use a Plastic Bag: To prevent the corn from drying out and maintain humidity, you can place the corn in a plastic bag or wrap it in a damp paper towel. Make sure the bag is not sealed too tightly to allow for some airflow.
• Avoid Ethylene-Producing Fruits: Keep corn away from fruits like apples and bananas. The naturally occurring ethylene will make it spoil.
• Best Enjoyed Fresh: Ideally, enjoy your corn within 2-3 days of purchasing it for the freshest taste. The longer corn is stored, the more its natural sugars convert to starch, affecting its sweetness.
• Freezing (Optional): If you can’t consume the corn within a few days, you can freeze it for longer storage. Refer to all of my freezing tips below.

Can You Freeze Corn on the Cob?

All of this talk about reheating may have you wondering if you can freeze corn on the cob. The answer is yes — and you can totally use the reheating methods outlined above to reheat frozen corn on the cob!

But first, here’s how to properly freeze corn:

Step 1: Prepare and cook corn

Peel back the husks and remove them completely, along with any silk strands. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.

Blanching helps preserve the flavor, texture, and color of the corn. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the corn cobs. Boil for 4-6 minutes, depending on the size of the cobs. Use a timer to avoid overcooking.

Step 2: Cool, drain, and dry

After blanching, immediately transfer the corn to a large bowl filled with ice water. This stops the cooking process and cools the corn rapidly. Leave the corn in the ice water for the same amount of time it was blanched.

Drain the corn cobs and let them air dry or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Wrap and freeze

Individually wrap each corn cob tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags. Remember to label each wrapped corn cob with the freezing date to keep track of freshness.

Place the wrapped corn cobs in the freezer in a single layer to keep them from sticking together. Your corn can be stored in the freezer for 8-12 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat it with your preferred method!

How to Reheat Corn in the Oven

Remember to use your oven if you need to reheat corn on the cob for a crowd.

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This moderate temperature will gently warm the corn without overcooking it.

Step 2: Wrap in foil

Take each ear of corn and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Make sure the foil covers the entire cob, leaving no gaps for steam to escape. This will help retain moisture and prevent the corn from drying out.

Place the wrapped corn cobs on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Reheat corn on the cob in the oven 

Put the baking sheet with the wrapped corn into the oven. Cook corn for 10-12 minutes if reheating already cooked corn.

If you’re reheating frozen corn, it may take around 30-35 minutes. The foil will help steam the corn, keeping it moist and flavorful. The timing will depend on the size of the corn. 

Step 5: Check for doneness

After the recommended time, carefully remove one of the corn cobs from the oven, open the foil, and check if it’s heated. The kernels should be hot and tender. If needed, return them to the oven for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Serve

When the corn is heated, carefully unwrap the foil — watch out for hot steam — and serve immediately.

Reheat Corn on the Cob on the Stove

Reheating corn on the cob on the stove is a quick method, ideal for reheating one or two cobs at a time.

Step 1: Boil water

Fill a large pot with enough water to submerge the corn thoroughly. Place it on the stove and bring the water to a rolling boil.

Step 2: Add corn, cover, and simmer

Carefully place the corn cobs into the hot water. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer.

Let the corn cook in the simmering water for about 3-4 minutes. This should be enough time to thoroughly reheat the corn without overcooking it.

Step 3: Check for doneness

After 5-7 minutes, use tongs to remove one of the corn cobs from the pot. Carefully touch the kernels to check if they are hot. They should be heated through.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the corn from the pot and let it drain. Serve right away with your favorite toppings… I love a little butter, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

How to Reheat Corn on the Cob in Microwave

You can reheat corn on the cob in microwave for when you’re short on time — or only need to reheat a few cobs.

Step 1: Prepare the corn

Wrap each cooked corn cob in a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out during reheating.

Step 2: Microwave

Put the wrapped corn cob in a microwave-safe dish or on a microwave-safe plate.

Set your microwave to high power and reheat the corn for 30 seconds to 1 minute per cob. The exact time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage and the corn’s temperature.

Step 3: Check for doneness

After reheating, carefully remove the corn from the microwave, and using oven mitts or a towel, unwrap it from the paper towel. Be cautious; it will be hot.

Check if the corn is heated to your liking by touching the kernels. They should be hot throughout.

Step 4: Serve

Once the corn is heated, serve it immediately with your preferred toppings such as butter, salt, and pepper.

Reheat Corn Cob in the Air Fryer​

Reheating corn on the cob in an air fryer is a fantastic method to regain that crispy texture without compromising the flavor.

Step 1: Preheat and prep the corn

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F to ensure the corn will cook evenly.

Take your cooked and refrigerated corn on the cob out of the refrigerator. Individually wrap each corn cob in aluminum foil so they don’t dry out.

Step 2: Air fry to reheat corn cob

Carefully place the foil-wrapped corn cobs in the air fryer basket. Stack them if needed but don’t overcrowd!

Set cooking time for 5-8 minutes, turning the cobs halfway through to ensure even heating. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your corn and the air fryer’s wattage.

Step 3: Check for doneness

After reheating, carefully remove the corn from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts. Unwrap the foil (be cautious; it will be hot) and check if the corn is heated to your liking. It should be hot throughout and have a slightly crispy exterior.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your crispy reheated corn immediately with some Parmesan or a pat of butter!

How to Use Your Broiler to Reheat Corn on the Cob

Using your broiler is a fantastic method to bring back its delicious flavors and slightly crispy texture.

Step 1: Preheat and prep the corn

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Ensure the oven rack is positioned at the top or closest to the broiler element.

Take the cooked ears of corn out of the refrigerator. Carefully remove any husks and silk strands from the corn. You want the corn kernels to be exposed for even reheating.

If you’d like, brush a thin layer of melted butter or olive oil over the corn cobs using a pastry or basting brush. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.

Step 2: Broil

Lay the prepared corn cobs on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place the baking sheet under the broiler in the preheated oven.

Keep a close eye on them and rotate the cobs every 2-3 minutes to ensure even reheating. The total broiling time will typically be around 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Check for doneness

After reheating, carefully remove the corn from the broiler. Check if it’s heated to your liking. It should be hot throughout, and the kernels may have a slightly charred or crispy appearance.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your corn immediately with your favorite seasonings, sea salt, butter, or toppings.

Reheating Corn on the Cob FAQs

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