There’s nothing quite like biting into juicy, sweet corn on the cob during the summer. It’s one of those seasonal favorites that shows up at backyard cookouts, holiday barbecues, and family picnics across the country. Whether slathered in butter or grilled to perfection, corn on the cob is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. But what if you could make it even better with just two simple kitchen staples? Believe it or not, the key to making corn on the cob taste even more amazing lies in an unexpected trick: adding milk and butter to your boiling water.

This surprisingly simple method brings out the corn’s natural sweetness and adds a rich, buttery flavor that takes it from good to downright irresistible. To try it for yourself, all you need to do is bring a pot of water to a boil. Before dropping in your corn, add about one cup of milk and a few generous tablespoons of butter to the boiling water. Once that’s done, place your corn cobs into the pot and let them cook for 7 to 8 minutes. That’s it—no fancy equipment, no complicated prep, just flavor-packed corn in under ten minutes.

So, why does this work? The fat in the milk and butter coats the kernels and enhances their flavor while keeping them moist and tender. It’s a simple technique, but it adds a richness that salt water alone just can’t provide. The result? Corn that tastes like it’s been soaked in buttery goodness from the inside out.

Once your corn is cooked to perfection, the options for serving it are endless. If you’re sticking with the classic route, a little extra butter and a dash of salt is all you need. But if you want to get creative and wow your guests, there are plenty of ways to take it up a notch.

Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
This popular street food from Mexico is a summertime favorite for good reason. After boiling or grilling your corn, slather it with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder. Then, sprinkle on crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. The result is tangy, creamy, and spicy—a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s the ultimate party corn, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any cookout.

Summer Corn Salad
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, try turning your corn into a refreshing summer salad. Cut the kernels off the cob and toss them with diced tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, avocado, and a splash of lime juice or vinaigrette. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh finish. This salad makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or can be served as a vegetarian main on hot days.

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Corn
For something richer and more indulgent, try a cheddar bacon ranch twist. Once your corn is boiled and tender, brush it with ranch dressing and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits. Pop it under the broiler or onto the grill for a minute or two until the cheese is bubbly. It’s a cheesy, savory, smoky combo that feels like a treat and will have everyone coming back for seconds.

These ideas just scratch the surface of what you can do with corn on the cob. Whether you prefer it boiled, grilled, baked, or dressed up with toppings, corn is one of those foods that adapts to almost any flavor profile. And thanks to the milk and butter boiling method, you can create a next-level version of this summertime staple with almost no effort.

So the next time you’re prepping for a summer gathering, don’t just toss your corn in a pot of water and call it a day. Add a little milk and butter, and let those simple ingredients work their magic. Your guests will notice the difference—and you’ll be amazed by how such a small change can make such a big impact.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving something fresh and satisfying, this method is a must-try. It’s the easiest way to upgrade your corn on the cob, and once you taste the difference, you’ll never go back to plain boiling again.