If you’re craving a side dish that feels like a warm hug with every bite, then this Buttered Corn Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines fluffy, buttery rice with sweet, juicy corn kernels, creating a comfort food classic that’s both simple and satisfying. The gentle aroma of sautéed onions and garlic infused in the rice elevates this dish beyond the ordinary, making it a perfect companion to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Buttered Corn Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the creamy butter that enriches every grain, to the sweet bursts of fresh or frozen corn that bring delightful pops throughout. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this comforting dish.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Provides the fluffy, tender base that absorbs all the lovely flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a luscious buttery taste that coats each kernel perfectly.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that enhances the savory notes.
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Infuses the rice with hearty flavor while cooking it to perfection.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained): Delivers juicy sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle spice.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Gives a fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Buttered Corn Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by rinsing the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This simple step washes away excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy and helping it cook up fluffy and light.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium saucepan warmed over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and turns translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook just 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Next, add the rinsed and well-drained rice to the saucepan. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly in the butter and aromatic mixture. This toasting step adds a subtle nuttiness and helps keep the grains separate after cooking.
Step 4: Add Broth and Corn
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the corn kernels, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until evenly mixed, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is the moment when all the flavors start to meld.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and let the rice simmer undisturbed for 15 to 18 minutes. This slow cooking with the lid on allows the rice to absorb the broth completely, tenderizing the grains and distributing the buttery corn essence throughout.
Step 6: Fluff and Finish
Once the cooking time is up, remove the pan from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes to steam gently. Then, fluff the rice carefully with a fork to separate the grains and stir in fresh chopped parsley if you like. This finishing touch brightens the dish with color and a touch of herbal freshness.
How to Serve Buttered Corn Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Though the dish is wonderful on its own, a sprinkling of extra fresh parsley or finely chopped green onions adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal. For a little zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can elevate the flavors with bright acidity.
Side Dishes
Buttered Corn Rice pairs beautifully with a wide range of mains. Grilled chicken or fish complements the buttery comfort of the rice, while roasted vegetables bring an earthy counterpoint. This versatility makes it an easy go-to side dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, mold the buttered corn rice into small ramekins or mini bowls, then invert onto the plate to create a tidy mound. Garnish with colorful sliced bell peppers or a sprinkling of paprika for contrast. You can even serve it stuffed inside hollowed bell peppers or tomatoes for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Buttered Corn Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to develop further the next day, making it a great make-ahead option for busy schedules.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion the rice into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 1 month. Be sure to cool the rice completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the rice to restore moisture. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for a nuttier flavor and higher fiber content, but you will need to increase the cooking time and add more broth to ensure it cooks fully.
Is this Buttered Corn Rice Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing any of the delicious taste.
Can I use canned corn for this recipe?
Definitely! Just make sure to drain the canned corn well to avoid excess moisture that could make the rice mushy. Frozen or fresh corn works beautifully too.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free broth. Always double-check your broth labels to be sure.
What if I want a richer flavor?
For extra indulgence, stir in a little more butter after cooking or add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end also deepens the flavor profile nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Buttered Corn Rice Recipe is a small wonder—simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that feels far more special than the effort it takes. It’s creamy, buttery, and just sweet enough from the corn to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Give it a try at your next meal and see how this humble side dish can steal the spotlight with its comforting and delicious charm.
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 simple, flavorful side dish featuring tender long-grain white rice cooked with sweet corn kernels, aromatic onions, garlic, and enriched with creamy butter. This comforting recipe is easy to prepare on the stovetop and brings a buttery, lightly seasoned complement to a variety of meals, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Rice and Liquid
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
Fats and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear to remove excess starch, then drain well to prepare for cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
- Toast the Rice: Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the grains to lightly toast in the butter and aromatics, enhancing the flavor.
- Add Broth and Corn: Pour in the chicken broth along with the corn kernels, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Simmer the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed completely.
- Let it Rest and Fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat while keeping it covered. Let the rice sit for 5 minutes to steam. After resting, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- You may substitute brown rice for a whole grain option, but increase the cooking time and liquid amount according to the package instructions.
- This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
