Description
Street Corn Alfredo Rice is a rich and creamy one-pan side or main dish inspired by Mexican street corn. Tender rice is cooked in a silky garlic Alfredo sauce with sweet corn, Parmesan, Cotija cheese, lime, and smoky spices, then finished with fresh cilantro for a comforting fusion meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or fire-roasted)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Extra Cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
- Pour in the broth and stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and corn, cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add the Parmesan and Cotija cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Mix in the lime juice and lime zest.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, extra Cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Fire-roasted corn adds extra smoky flavor similar to authentic street corn.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Add shredded chicken or grilled shrimp to turn this into a complete meal.
- Adjust the chili powder to make the dish milder or spicier.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion