Mix butter, basil and garlic powder thoroughly in a small bowl.
Boil about 3 quarts of water (enough that corn will be covered) in a large stock pot. Add corn; boil 7 minutes. Remove ears with tongs.
Place ears of corn (single layer) in a microwave-safe baking pan. Add 1/4 cup water. Cover pan with plastic wrap, venting one corner. Microwave on HIGH (100%) 16 minutes.
Spread butter mixture over hot ears of corn. Serve immediately.
Stovetop method: Boil about 3 quarts of water (enough that corn will be covered) in a large stock pot. Add corn; boil 7 minutes. Remove ears with tongs.
Microwave method: Place ears of corn (single layer) in a microwave-safe baking pan. Add 1/4 cup water. Cover pan with plastic wrap, venting one corner. Microwave on HIGH (100%) 16 minutes.
Spread butter mixture over hot ears of corn. Serve immediately.