Corn rice with butter is the perfect side dish when you want something quick, comforting, and full of flavor. This easy-to-make dish combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of butter, creating a delicious, crowd-pleasing option for any meal. Whether served alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as part of a hearty family dinner, corn rice adds a wonderful balance of taste and texture that enhances the main course without overpowering it.
The dish is incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients: rice, corn, and butter. The key to its success lies in the way the corn, with its natural sweetness, pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of butter. As the rice cooks, it absorbs the buttery flavor, while the corn adds a pop of color and sweetness to each bite. The result is a light yet satisfying side that complements almost any dish.
One of the best things about corn rice with butter is its versatility. You can use fresh corn, frozen corn, or even canned corn, making it easy to whip up with ingredients you likely already have on hand. If you’re looking to add a bit more flavor, try sautéing the corn in a little butter or olive oil before mixing it with the rice, or adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or garlic powder. For a little extra richness, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can take it to the next level.
This dish is not only delicious but also customizable. You can mix in other ingredients like diced bell peppers, peas, or herbs such as cilantro or parsley for an added burst of freshness. It’s also a great base to which you can add proteins like grilled shrimp or chicken for a more substantial meal.
Corn rice with butter is a classic example of how the simplest dishes are often the most satisfying. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you need a side that’s both quick and comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat with butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the corn kernels and stir to combine.
- Pour in the water, then add the salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork and serving.
Nutrition
Made this for the first time and it turned out great! Definitely adding it to my weeknight meals.
Was hoping for something more exciting. It tastes like plain rice with corn in it. Need spices or cheese or something.
Does it really need salt? I didn’t add any and it was fine! Less sodium!
I think it’s all about personal taste! If you liked it without salt, more power to you! 🥳
Best recipe ever!!! I’m gonna eat this every day now! 😍
Corn rice? Sounds weird but it’s actually kinda good.
Meh… rice tasted kinda bland. I had to add more salt. Still eatable though.
I added some garlic and it was really good! Next time, I’ll try onions too.
Garlic sounds yum! Onions will definitely add some flavor too. Can’t wait to try it with your adjustments!
LOVE this recipe! Perfect side dish. Who knew corn and rice go together so well? 😊
I totally agree! This dish is so simple yet so delicious. Perfect for any meal. 🍽️
Not sure about combining corn and rice. Feels a bit weird to me… but to each their own, I guess.
I think I’m allergic to corn… got a rash after! Be careful guys!!
My kids wouldn’t eat it, but I thought it was pretty good. Maybe they’re just picky?
Loved the texture—corn gives it a nice pop. I also added a splash of lemon at the end and it made it pop even more.
I made this for dinner and it turned out perfect! So simple and flavorful.
Honestly, I expected more flavor. It was just kind of…blah.
Not gonna lie, I was skeptical about “corn + rice” being enough, but the salt/pepper balance helped. Would make again.
Not bad, but it felt a little bland until I added extra pepper. Maybe it needs more salt than stated?
Totally agree—mine felt a bit flat at first too. I usually bump the salt slightly (and go heavier on pepper), and it tastes way more “finished.”
Huh, I felt it was fine as-written, but maybe my corn was sweeter. If it’s bland, try a little more butter at the end or squeeze in lemon—salt alone didn’t do much for me.
Loved it! But how much time is for simmering? Thought it was too long.
Pretty tasty, but mine took closer to 25 minutes to get tender. I think my stove runs hot. Still, worth it.
1 cup rice to 2 cups water seems a little off? Rice cooking times always vary, but I think you should clarify the rice type. Jasmine vs long grain matters a lot.
Yum!
Right?! The butter + sweet corn combo is so good—this is one of those “make it again tomorrow” side dishes.
Mine was a bit mushy, not sure if I overcooked the rice or if my burner runs hot. Still tasty though!
Lol I thought it was corn on the cob! I was so confused when I saw the ingredients. 😅
5 stars! This is great with grilled chicken! 👍
I don’t like corn and this ain’t changing my mind! IMO rice is best plain or with soy sauce.
I love corn + rice but I was skeptical about only 1 cup rice with 2 cups water. It actually cooked perfectly, surprising me.
That’s awesome—corn + rice together is underrated. I’m glad the water ratio worked for you!
This was super easy to make and turned out great! My kids loved it!
I added some chicken broth instead of water and it made it sooo much better!
I love the idea of using chicken broth! That sounds so flavorful. I’ll have to try that next time! 😊
Honestly, it was just okay. I followed it exactly, but it felt a little bland until I hit it with extra pepper and a squeeze of lemon.
This is so easy and delicious! I made it for my family and they loved it!
Not gonna lie, I was skeptical at first—like, just add corn and water and that’s it? But it actually worked. The salt/pepper ratio feels right.
Yum! Perfect side dish for my grilled chicken. Will make again!