Side Dish: United States – Maryland (Mid-Atlantic United States) – Old Bay Corn on the Cob

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 8 min

Total 20 min

Ingredients

- 6 ears sweet corn, shucked
- 8 cups (1.9 L) water
- 1 tbsp (15 g) kosher salt
- 1 tbsp (12 g) granulated sugar (optional, enhances sweetness)
- 2 tbsp (14 g) Old Bay Seasoning, divided
- 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tsp (5 ml) fresh lemon juice, plus lemon wedges for serving
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Short Description:
Sweet summer corn cooked and finished with Maryland's signature Old Bay seasoning and butter for a savory, slightly spicy side. Bright lemon and a butter-Old Bay glaze make this a regional favorite for backyard cookouts and crab feasts.

Regional Notes:
This Maryland variation uses Old Bay, the local spice blend long associated with Chesapeake Bay cuisine, both in the cooking water and in a finishing butter glaze. That Old Bay-forward flavor distinguishes it from plain butter-and-salt corn found elsewhere in the U.S.

1. In a large pot, bring 8 cups (1.9 L) of water to a rolling boil. Stir in kosher salt, sugar (if using), and 1 tbsp (7 g) Old Bay Seasoning.
2. Add the shucked ears of corn to the boiling water, cover, and return to a gentle boil. Cook 4–6 minutes for tender-crisp corn or 6–8 minutes for softer kernels. Do not overcook.
3. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt 4 tbsp (57 g) of the butter. Whisk in the remaining 1 tbsp (7 g) Old Bay Seasoning and 1 tsp (5 ml) lemon juice to make a spiced butter glaze.
4. Drain the corn and transfer to a serving platter. Brush each ear generously with the Old Bay butter glaze, using about 1 tbsp (14 g) glaze per ear. Add the remaining 2 tbsp (28 g) butter, divided, as plain butter for guests who prefer less seasoning.
5. Finish with a light grind of black pepper, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately with extra Old Bay on the side for additional sprinkling.