Name: Sweet Corn Risotto
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small shallot, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (kept warm); ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh basil or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Creamy, comforting, and bursting with fresh flavor, this Sweet Corn Risotto is a summer-inspired twist on a classic Italian dish. Whether you’re working with fresh corn off the cob or frozen kernels, the result is a velvety bowl of rice infused with corn’s natural sweetness and a touch of parmesan.

Each bite of this risotto delivers a rich, buttery mouthfeel layered with tender corn kernels that pop against the soft Arborio rice. It’s a perfect dish for those cozy dinners or even as an impressive vegetarian main course when you want something both elegant and hearty.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Corn Risotto

This dish is simplicity at its best. The ingredients are minimal, but each one plays an essential role in developing depth and creaminess without overpowering the sweet corn. It’s an easy way to highlight seasonal produce, and it feels fancy without being fussy. Plus, it can stand on its own or be dressed up with herbs, crispy prosciutto, or grilled shrimp.

What Kind of Corn Should I Use?

Fresh corn on the cob is ideal when it’s in season. You’ll get unbeatable sweetness and a crisp texture. However, if you’re making this in the off-season, frozen corn works just fine and still delivers great flavor. Avoid canned corn, which tends to be too soft and salty for this risotto.

Ingredients for the Sweet Corn Risotto

Corn and rice are the stars of the show, but the other ingredients are key to pulling everything together into a creamy, cohesive dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Arborio rice
Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Butter
Olive oil
Shallot
Garlic
Vegetable or chicken broth
Parmesan cheese
Heavy cream (optional)
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil or chives for garnish

The Arborio rice gives the risotto its signature creamy texture. Corn kernels bring natural sweetness and a touch of crunch. A bit of butter and olive oil form the flavorful base, while shallot and garlic build aroma. Broth slowly absorbed into the rice brings everything together, and parmesan adds that irresistible savory finish. A splash of heavy cream makes it extra luscious, and herbs brighten the final dish.

How To Make the Sweet Corn Risotto

Step 1: Prepare Your Corn Base

If using fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cobs. You can simmer the cobs in the broth for extra corn flavor. If using frozen, no prep needed beyond thawing.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped shallot and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the grains are lightly translucent around the edges.

Step 4: Add the Broth Gradually

Start adding warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Let the rice absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process for about 18 to 20 minutes.

Step 5: Fold in the Corn and Finish

Stir in the corn kernels about halfway through cooking. When the rice is tender and creamy, turn off the heat and mix in parmesan, a splash of cream if desired, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it rest a minute, then top with chopped herbs.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Corn Risotto

This sweet corn risotto is best served immediately, while it’s warm and ultra-creamy. It makes a filling meal for 4 as a main course, or up to 6 if served as a side dish. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and stir over low heat to restore the creaminess.

What to Serve With Sweet Corn Risotto?

Grilled Shrimp

The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with smoky, garlicky grilled shrimp skewers.

Roasted Asparagus

A crisp, roasted veggie like asparagus brings balance and color to your plate.

Herby Chicken Meatballs

Tender meatballs with fresh herbs are a great protein boost beside the creamy rice.

Seared Scallops

Perfectly golden scallops elevate this dish to a dinner party-worthy level.

Arugula Salad

A peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette gives a fresh contrast to the rich risotto.

Garlic Bread

Not traditional, but very welcome when it comes to sopping up every last bit.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc highlights the delicate sweetness.

Want More Vegetarian Dinner Ideas?

If you love this sweet corn risotto, you’ll definitely want to try these other easy, flavor-packed recipes:

Save This Recipe For Later

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And if you made this risotto, let me know how it went in the comments. Did you add cream or leave it out? Go with frozen or fresh corn?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Got questions? I’m happy to help troubleshoot or suggest swaps.

Explore beautifully curated healthy comfort food on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next go-to dish.

Conclusion

Sweet Corn Risotto is that rare meal that feels luxurious and comforting all at once. With just a handful of ingredients, you can bring out the natural sweetness of corn in a creamy, satisfying way. Whether you serve it solo or with protein or veggies, it’s the kind of dish that makes summer dinners memorable.