If you are looking for a comforting and flavorful side dish that brightens up any meal, this Buttered Corn Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, buttery rice combined with sweet corn kernels creates a perfect harmony of tastes and textures that feels both homey and special. Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this dish is an easy crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. The gentle richness of butter, the subtle crunch of corn, and the delicate aroma from garlic and onions make every bite a delight that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buttered Corn Rice Recipe shines because of its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component brings something unique—whether it’s the essential base of long grain rice, the savory depth from chicken broth, or the luscious butter that ties everything together. These staples guarantee a deliciously balanced dish filled with comforting flavors and beautiful color.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: Provides a fluffy, tender base that absorbs all the delicious flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups chicken broth or water: Chicken broth adds richness, while water keeps it light—both work beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté onions and garlic, adding a subtle olive taste and preventing sticking.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Infuses the rice and corn with creamy, buttery goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned—corn adds bursts of natural sweetness and a pleasing bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant warmth and depth that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Softens when sautéed and lends a gentle sweetness to build the flavor base.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients and balances the natural sweetness of the corn.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild, comforting spice that rounds out the dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brings a fresh, bright finish with a pop of green color.
How to Make Buttered Corn Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the rice base
Start by rinsing the long grain rice under cold water until it runs clear; this removes excess starch and prevents the rice from sticking together. Drain well to avoid excess moisture as you cook. This little step helps achieve that ideal fluffy texture every time.
Step 2: Sauté aromatic vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until you can smell its fragrant essence filling your kitchen. These aromatics form the flavorful foundation for the rice, making the dish truly special.
Step 3: Toast the rice gently
Add the rinsed rice to the pan and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Toasting the grains lightly develops a subtle nuttiness that adds depth and character. Be sure to stir often so the rice cooks evenly and does not burn.
Step 4: Add liquids and seasonings, then simmer
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth or water, sprinkle the salt and black pepper, and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes. This gentle cooking method allows the rice to absorb the flavorful broth while becoming tender and fluffy.
Step 5: Cook the corn in butter
While the rice simmers, melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet corn kernels and sauté them for 3 to 5 minutes until they are heated through and just starting to turn golden. This buttery corn adds sweetness and a lovely texture contrast that makes the recipe truly irresistible.
Step 6: Combine and finish
When the rice is tender and the liquid fully absorbed, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains. Carefully fold in the warm buttered corn, mixing thoroughly but gently to maintain the fluffy rice texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a colorful and fresh touch before serving.
How to Serve Buttered Corn Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing this Buttered Corn Rice Recipe with chopped fresh parsley is a simple way to brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise. You might also consider a light dusting of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty contrast that lifts the buttery richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or pan-seared fish. Its creamy texture and sweet corn flavor complement hearty proteins and fresh greens alike, making your dinner plate balanced and inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try spooning buttered corn rice into avocado halves or serving it in decorative ramekins topped with extra herbs. You can also use it as a bed for sautéed mushrooms or spicy shrimp for a colorful and impressive presentation sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Buttered Corn Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it chilled to maintain freshness and to prevent the butter from spoiling.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. To restore moisture and flavor, add a splash of water or broth and stir occasionally while warming. This will bring your Buttered Corn Rice Recipe back to life without losing its fluffy, buttery charm.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well but requires a longer cooking time—usually about 40 to 45 minutes. Be sure to adjust your liquid accordingly and cook it thoroughly before adding the buttered corn.
Is this dish vegetarian or vegan?
The Buttered Corn Rice Recipe as written is vegetarian but not vegan due to the butter used. To make it vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth or water. Always double-check store-bought broth labels to ensure no gluten-containing additives are included.
What type of corn is best for this recipe?
Fresh corn gives the best sweetness and texture, but frozen corn is a great convenient alternative that works wonderfully. Canned corn can be used as well, just be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid extra moisture.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, peas, or chopped spinach can be stirred in along with the corn for extra color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure all veggies are tender.
Final Thoughts
This Buttered Corn Rice Recipe is a delightful, easy-to-make side that captures the comforting flavors of buttery rice and sweet corn in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a simple family dinner or adding a fresh touch to a special meal, you’ll find this dish reliably delicious and satisfying. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Print
Buttered Corn Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttered Corn Rice is a flavorful and comforting side dish featuring tender long grain rice cooked to perfection with savory chicken broth, sautéed onions, garlic, and sweet corn kernels. Finished with a generous amount of butter and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this easy-to-make recipe offers a rich, buttery taste complemented by the natural sweetness of corn. Ideal for pairing with a variety of main courses, it brings a tasty and colorful touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Rice Mixture
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Corn Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse and prepare the rice: Rinse the long grain white rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain the rice well.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the rinsed rice and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step lightly toasts the rice and enhances its nutty flavor.
- Add liquid and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth or water, then add salt and black pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Prepare the buttered corn: While the rice cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet corn kernels and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until the corn is heated through and develops a light golden color.
- Combine rice and corn: When the rice is done, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Fold the buttery sautéed corn into the rice mixture carefully to combine evenly.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish: Taste the buttered corn rice and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for an added fresh flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra zest and depth.
- Brown rice can be substituted, but increase the cooking time according to the package directions.
- Frozen corn works well if fresh is not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain canned corn well to avoid excess moisture.
