How To Cut Corn Off The Cob

Whether you’re grilling whole ears or sautéing kernels for a succotash—corn is one of the South’s favorite vegetables to enjoy when summertime rolls around. While we enjoy the veggie year round, it’s in the summer that it makes its way onto our grills, platters, and plates for almost every meal. When working with whole cobs, it’s not always the easiest ingredient to handle.

No matter how you like your corn prepared or even what type of corn you prefer, there are some helpful hints that will make meal prep a breeze. We have you covered with everything you need to get started, from simple shucking hacks and steps for corn boiling to tricks for freezing fresh corn and smart storage tricks that'll maintain that crunch. The truth is, when it comes to cutting corn off the cob, things can get a little messy. The kernels tend to go flying across the kitchen and your knife along the edge of the cob never feels all that sturdy. Here are three ways to make cutting corn off the cob a whole lot easier and mess-free.

Use a Bundt Pan

The most effective method for removing corn from the cob without sending kernels all over the kitchen is to use a bundt pan.

1. With the pan right-side-up as if you are about to fill it with pound cake batter, simply place the tip of the cob in the hole in the center of the pan.
2. Once the corn is in place, use a sharp knife to cut straight down the side, rotating the cob until you’re left with a bare ear of corn. The bowl-like pan will neatly catch all the kernels. 
3. After you’ve removed all the kernels don’t let the corn milk go to waste, especially if you’re making chowder, corn soup, or just want to add extra flavor to your dish. Carefully run the back of your knife down the cob and let the liquid run into the bowl.

Lay it Flat on a Cutting Board

If you don't have a bundt pan, you can lay the corn flat on your cutting board to avoid movement from the vegetable or your knife when holding it upright.

1. With the cob horizontal on the cutting board, first cut the stem end of the ear off, then stand it upright and slowly and carefully shave the kernels from one side.
2. Now lay the corn, flat side down, on the cutting board and align the knife perpendicular to the cob.
3. Starting on whichever end is more comfortable for you, and with the knife tip and blade facing away from your body, shave the length of the cob.
4. Continue by rotating the cob until all the kernels are removed. As the kernels come loose, they should fall to the sides.

Put a Sheet Pan Underneath

To catch the kernels as you cut them, place a small cutting board within a sheet pan with raised edges.

1. Lay the cob horizontally and cut off one end. This creates a flat surface for stability when cutting.
2. Stand the ear of corn up on the cutting board, cut side down, and hold it at the top. Similar to the bundt pan method—use your knife to slowly cut downwards along each side of the cob, rotating it until all of the kernels are removed. (You can also place a paper towel underneath to keep the cob from sliding around while cutting.)