Instant Pot Corn on the Cob

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob is a quick and foolproof way to get perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender corn every time. No need to boil a big pot of water or stand over the stove—this method locks in flavor and moisture, making it ideal for weeknight meals, BBQs, or summer sides in minutes.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh corn on the cob (husks removed)
water
butter (for serving, optional)
salt (for serving, optional)

directions

Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot.

Place the trivet or steaming rack in the pot.

Stack the shucked corn on the trivet, cutting the ears in half if needed to fit.

Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on high for 2 minutes.

Once cooking is complete, do a quick pressure release.

Carefully remove the corn with tongs and serve hot with butter and salt if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4–6 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 2 minutes
Pressure build/release time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

Add a squeeze of lime and sprinkle of chili powder for a Mexican-style twist.
Top with grated Parmesan and herbs for a savory upgrade.
Brush with garlic butter for extra flavor.
Sprinkle with smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for a bold kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or steam in the Instant Pot for 1 minute.
Cut kernels off the cob and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen corn in the Instant Pot?

Yes, increase cook time to 3–4 minutes depending on size.

Do I need to husk the corn?

Yes, remove husks and silk before cooking.

Can I cook more than 4 ears?

Yes, stack them as needed—cooking time remains the same.

Can I add seasoning during cooking?

It’s best to season after cooking, as pressure can wash away delicate flavors.

Does this method work for sweet corn?

Absolutely—it keeps sweet corn juicy and flavorful.

Can I use the keep warm setting?

Yes, it’ll keep the corn warm for up to an hour after cooking.

Is this faster than boiling?

Yes, especially with no waiting for a large pot of water to boil.

Can I cut the corn before cooking?

Yes, cut in halves or thirds to fit your pot.

Does this method work with corn in foil?

No, cook it unwrapped to ensure even steaming.

What if I don’t have a trivet?

Place the corn directly in the water—just flip halfway through cooking for best results.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Corn on the Cob is an effortless, fast, and tasty way to enjoy fresh corn any time. With tender kernels and minimal prep, this method is perfect for busy nights or quick cookouts. Dress it up with your favorite toppings or enjoy it plain—it’s simple, sweet, and always satisfying.

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