Crock Pot Corn on the Cob (with Butter)
Developed and tested by Robyn Conley Downs
on Jul 2, 2023 (last updated Apr 14, 2026) 
Slow cooker corn on the cob is the easiest hands-off way to cook corn for a crowd without heating up the kitchen. Just shuck the corn, rub with olive oil and salt, and let the slow cooker do the work! Finish each cob with butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs and it’s ready to serve.
5 star review
“Tried this last night and was amazed at how perfectly the corn was cooked. Will definitely be my go to way from now on. Thank you! ”
– Kellie
Slow Cooker Corn on the Cob with Butter
In reality, corn on the cob is pretty easy to make whether you boil or grill it, but my absolute favorite way (and the easiest way, in my opinion) is, no surprise, in the slow cooker because it’s a hands-off way to prepare easy side dishes with minimal time and effort. The best part? The slow cooker doesn’t heat up the kitchen, making this the perfect use for your slow cooker in the summer.
And, this corn comes out perfectly sweet and tender every time. And, while the crock pot is a great way to cook corn on the cob year round, it’s probably best in the summer when corn is in season and readily available. However, if you have access to good corn on the cob year round, I highly recommend this cooking method anytime.
This corn makes a great side alongside my slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs for an easy summer meal with minimal cleanup. And, for another no-fuss side dish that works well at a cookout, my marinated grilled vegetables come together with the same hands-off approach. Yum!
Welcome to My Kitchen! Here’s How to Make Corn on the Cob in the Slow Cooker
Testing Tips for Crockpot Corn on the Cob
- Cut the cobs in half if your slow cooker is small. A 6-quart slow cooker fits full cobs for most people, but if yours is smaller, cut each ear in half so everything fits without stacking unevenly.
- Don’t skip the olive oil rub! When I tested skipping this step, the corn was less flavorful. The oil helps the salt adhere and adds a subtle richness to the finished cob.
- Cook on high for a crowd-ready timeline. High for 2 to 3 hours is my preferred method when I need the corn ready for a meal. Low for 3 to 4 hours works just as well if you have more time.
- Add fresh herbs at the end, not the beginning. Herbs like parsley, basil, or chives go on after cooking so they stay bright and aromatic rather than wilting during the cook time.
- Garlic butter is the best upgrade. Stir softened butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt, then rub it over the hot corn straight from the slow cooker. It takes about 30 seconds and makes and takes this corn to the next level!
Crock Pot Corn on the Cob (with Butter)
Ingredients
- 6-8 ears corn
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for serving
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or chives (optional)
Equipment
Instructions
- Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn.
- Add ½ cup water to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Rub the corn with the olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Nestle into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for 2-3 hours, or low for 3-4, or until the corn is tender.
- Uncover and carefully remove the corn, and discard the cooking liquid. Rub each corn cob with butter, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs (optional), and serve warm.
Tried this last night and was amazed at how perfectly the corn was cooked. Will definitely be my go to way from now on. Thank you!
Fantastic to hear this one was a hit for you, Kellie! Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts.
Easiest, hands-off way to cook corn on the cob for a crowd. A hit with my whole family!
Darlene, yay, and I agree this is definitely the easiest way to cook corn on the cob. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and for leaving a review!